Exploring Area Code 716: Buffalo, New York

Area code 716 serves Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and the surrounding Western New York region. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know: geographic coverage across four counties, the 624 area code overlay, 10-digit dialing requirements, major cities and towns, time zone information, telecommunications carriers, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you're a resident, business owner, or newcomer to Western New York, you'll understand how 716 phone numbers work and how to navigate the region's telecommunications system.

What Area Code 716 Covers: Geographic Map and Boundaries

Area code 716 (and its overlay 624) serves Western New York, encompassing four counties: Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua. The region also includes portions of Allegany County. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2024 population estimates, Erie County has approximately 948,386 residents. The entire Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls metropolitan area comprises approximately 1.16 million people as of 2024, making it a significant telecommunications market.

The area code's geographic boundaries align with Western New York's natural borders: Lake Erie to the west, Lake Ontario to the north, and the Pennsylvania border (Area Code 814) to the south. To the east, Area Code 716 borders Area Code 585, which serves the Rochester region.

Major Cities and Towns in the 716 Area Code

The 716 area code encompasses over 80 cities and towns across Western New York. Major population centers include:

• Buffalo: The second-largest city in New York State with a population of 276,617 (2024 Census estimate). Buffalo serves as the region's economic and cultural hub, with major industries including healthcare, education, advanced manufacturing, and professional services.
• Niagara Falls: Home to approximately 48,671 residents (2020 Census), Niagara Falls attracts millions of tourists annually. Its location on the international border makes it a significant point for cross-border telecommunications.
• Cheektowaga: A major suburban community serving the greater Buffalo metropolitan area.
• Tonawanda: Comprising North Tonawanda and the Town of Tonawanda, this area serves as a key residential and commercial zone.
• West Seneca: A significant suburb south of Buffalo with a substantial residential population.
• Lockport: A city of approximately 20,394 residents. The Erie Canal locks remain operational and central to the city's identity.
• Jamestown: Located in Chautauqua County, Jamestown is the birthplace of comedian Lucille Ball and maintains cultural attractions celebrating entertainment history.
• Olean: Situated in Cattaraugus County near the 716/585 boundary, Olean demonstrates the complex nature of area code borders. Some Olean exchanges, particularly those used by Sprint Corporation cell phones, use Area Code 585 due to proximity to the dividing line.

Time Zone: Eastern Time (ET)

The 716 area code operates in the Eastern Time Zone (ET). The region observes:

• Eastern Standard Time (EST): UTC-5 from November to March
• Eastern Daylight Time (EDT): UTC-4 from March to November

Like most of the United States, Western New York observes Daylight Saving Time, shifting clocks forward one hour in March and back one hour in November. This time zone alignment keeps Buffalo synchronized with major East Coast business centers including New York City, Boston, and Washington, D.C.

How to Dial 716 Phone Numbers: Complete Instructions

Follow specific patterns depending on the type of call you're making.

Dialing Patterns Explained

• Local Calls (within 716/624): Dial the 10-digit number (area code + 7-digit number). For example: 716-555-1234. Mandatory 10-digit dialing was implemented by October 24, 2021, in preparation for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which launched nationwide on July 16, 2022. This ensures that calls to 988 reach the crisis lifeline rather than being interpreted as a 7-digit local number starting with 988.
• Toll Calls (outside 716/624): Dial 1 + area code + 7-digit number. For example: 1-585-555-6789. The "1" prefix designates a long-distance call, connecting your call to networks outside the 716/624 area.
• International Calls: Dial 011 + country code + city code + local number. For example, to call the UK: 011-44-20-XXXX-XXXX. The 011 prefix is the international direct dialing code for calls from the United States to countries outside the North American Numbering Plan.
• Operator-Assisted Calls: Dial 0 + area code + 7-digit number. This connects you to an operator who can assist with specialized calls, such as collect calls or calls requiring language translation.

Emergency and Special Service Numbers

• Emergency Services: Dial 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies. This three-digit code works throughout the United States and requires no area code.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 for 24/7 mental health crisis support. The previous 10-digit number (1-800-273-8255) remains operational and routes to the same service.
• Other Special Services: If available in your area, dial 211 (community services), 311 (non-emergency government services), 411 (directory assistance), 511 (traffic information), 611 (phone company repair), 711 (relay services for hearing/speech impaired), and 811 (underground utility locating) using just three digits.

Understanding the 624 Area Code Overlay

Area Code 716, like all area codes in North America, operates under the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). NANPA manages numbering resources and ensures the long-term viability of the telecommunications system.

The Role of NANPA

The North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) oversees the allocation and assignment of area codes and other numbering resources within the NANP. NANPA monitors the rate at which phone numbers are assigned and projects when an area code will exhaust its available prefixes (central office codes). When exhaustion is imminent, NANPA works with state regulators to implement relief measures such as overlays or splits.

For consumers, NANPA's oversight means phone numbers remain available for new services, businesses, and residents. NANPA also maintains the authoritative database of area code assignments and publishes planning letters announcing upcoming changes.

Area Code 624 Overlay Implementation

In its 2022 NRUF and NPA Exhaust Analysis, NANPA projected that Area Code 716 would exhaust its available prefixes in 2024. In response, the New York Public Service Commission approved Area Code 624 as an overlay in October 2022. The 624 area code officially entered service on September 11, 2023, with an earliest activation date for new central office codes of November 16, 2023.

What the 624 overlay means for you:

• Existing 716 numbers remain unchanged. Your current phone number, including its 716 area code, will not change.
• New numbers may receive 624. Anyone requesting new service, an additional line, or moving their service location after September 11, 2023, may receive a number in the 624 area code.
• Both area codes serve the same geography. The 624 overlay covers the exact same counties, cities, and towns as 716.
• 10-digit dialing is required for all local calls. Calls within and between 716 and 624 must use 10 digits (area code + 7-digit number).
• Local calling areas and rates do not change. What was a local call before the overlay remains a local call, and pricing for calls and services is unaffected by the new area code.
• Equipment and services must recognize 624. Ensure that automatic dialing equipment, alarm systems, fax machines, PBX systems, speed dialers, and similar devices are programmed to accept 624 as a valid area code. Update business stationery, marketing materials, checks, and identification tags to include your full 10-digit number.

History of Area Code 716: From 1947 to Today

Area Code 716 has a rich history, reflecting the evolution of telecommunications in Western New York. Understanding this history provides valuable context for the current telecommunications landscape.

From 1947 to the Present

Established in 1947 as one of the original 86 North American area codes created by AT&T, Area Code 716 initially covered a much larger portion of New York State, extending as far east as Corning in Central New York. This extensive territory reflected the lower demand for phone numbers in the post-World War II era.

Key historical milestones:

• 1947: Area Code 716 introduced as one of the original NANP area codes, covering Western and portions of Central New York.
• 1954: The numbering plan area was reduced when its eastern portion merged with the southern portion of Area Code 315 to create Area Code 607, which serves the Southern Tier region including Binghamton, Elmira, and Ithaca. This split was necessary to accommodate growing demand for telephone numbers.
• 2001: Area Code 716 was split again, with the Rochester area and surrounding counties receiving the new Area Code 585. This further refined the geographic boundaries to focus 716 on the Buffalo-Niagara region.
• October 24, 2021: Mandatory 10-digit dialing implemented in preparation for the 988 crisis lifeline.
• November 16, 2023: Area Code 624 introduced as an overlay to provide additional numbering resources for the same geographic area served by 716.

Throughout its history, Area Code 716 has become a symbol of regional identity for Western New York, with residents and businesses expressing strong attachment to the area code as a marker of community connection.

Phone Carriers and Service Providers in the 716 Area Code

Multiple telecommunications providers serve the 716/624 area codes, offering services from traditional landlines to advanced mobile networks and Voice over IP (VoIP) systems. The competitive market provides consumers and businesses with numerous options.

Major Mobile and Landline Carriers

National Carriers: The three major nationwide carriers operate extensive networks in the 716/624 region:

• Verizon: Operates both wireless and landline (Fios fiber-optic) services throughout Western New York, with strong coverage in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and suburban areas.
• AT&T: Provides wireless services and has historically served as the incumbent local exchange carrier for traditional landline service in portions of the region.
• T-Mobile: Offers wireless services with expanding 5G coverage in urban and suburban areas of the 716/624 region.

Regional and Local Providers: Several regional carriers also serve the area:

• Spectrum (Charter Communications): Provides cable-based phone service bundled with internet and television.
• DFT Communications: A local provider serving rural communities in Western New York with fiber and traditional phone services.

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs): Choose from MVNOs such as Mint Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Consumer Cellular, and others that operate on the networks of major carriers but often offer lower-cost plans.

VoIP and Business Phone Services

VoIP Providers: Voice over IP technology is increasingly popular for both residential and business users in the 716/624 area:

• Local VoIP Providers: WNY VoIP, Hover Networks, and I-Evolve Technology offer hosted cloud-based VoIP phone systems designed for Buffalo and Western New York businesses.
• National VoIP Services: Major providers including RingCentral, Vonage, Zoom Phone, 8x8, Nextiva, and Google Voice offer business and residential VoIP services with 716/624 area code numbers.

Business Telecommunications Features: Business-focused providers offer:

• Cloud-based PBX systems with advanced call routing, voicemail-to-email, auto-attendants, and conference calling
• Unified communications integrating voice, video, messaging, and collaboration tools
• SIP trunking for enterprises with existing PBX infrastructure
• Number portability allowing businesses to keep existing 716 numbers when switching providers
• Virtual phone numbers enabling remote workers to maintain a local 716/624 presence

Considerations for Choosing a Provider:

• Coverage quality varies by location, especially in rural areas of Cattaraugus and Chautauqua counties
• Compare pricing for your specific usage patterns (local vs. long-distance, data needs, international calling)
• Verify that VoIP services include 911 emergency calling with correct address registration
• Check for compatibility with existing equipment and infrastructure

Frequently Asked Questions About Area Code 716

This section addresses the most common questions about Area Code 716. You'll find quick solutions to common inquiries.

What cities are in the 716 area code?

Area Code 716 (and its overlay 624) covers Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua counties, plus portions of Allegany County in Western New York. Major cities include Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Lockport, Jamestown, Tonawanda, Cheektowaga, West Seneca, and Olean.

How do I dial a number within Area Code 716?

For local calls within Area Code 716/624, dial the full 10-digit number (area code + 7-digit number). This requirement has been in effect since October 24, 2021.

How do I dial a number outside of Area Code 716?

For calls outside of Area Code 716/624 but within the United States or Canada, dial 1 + area code + 7-digit number.

How do I make international calls from 716?

Dial 011 + country code + city code + local number. For example: 011-44-20-XXXX-XXXX for London, UK.

What time zone is 716 in?

Area code 716 operates in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), observing Eastern Standard Time (EST: UTC-5) from November to March and Eastern Daylight Time (EDT: UTC-4) from March to November.

Is Area Code 716 going to change?

Area Code 716 remains in use and existing 716 numbers will not change. However, the 624 overlay was introduced on September 11, 2023, meaning new phone numbers in the same geographic area may receive either 716 or 624 area codes. Both area codes serve identical coverage areas.

What is the 624 area code?

The 624 area code is an overlay introduced on November 16, 2023, that serves the exact same geographic region as 716. New phone numbers may be assigned either 716 or 624 based on availability. All local calls require 10-digit dialing.

Who regulates Area Code 716?

The North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) regulates Area Code 716, overseeing numbering resources across North America. The New York State Public Service Commission has jurisdiction over telecommunications services and area code changes within New York.

Can I keep my 716 number if I change phone companies?

Yes. Federal regulations require carriers to support number portability, allowing you to keep your existing 716 or 624 phone number when switching service providers within the same geographic area. Contact your new provider to initiate a port request, which typically takes 1–7 business days.

How do I get a new 716 or 624 area code number?

Contact any telecommunications provider serving Western New York. When you request new service, the provider will assign an available number, which may have either a 716 or 624 area code depending on availability. You cannot typically choose which area code you receive, though you may be able to select from available numbers within the assigned area code.

What cell phone carriers operate in the 716 area code?

Major carriers including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile operate extensive wireless networks throughout the 716/624 region. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) such as Mint Mobile, Cricket Wireless, and Consumer Cellular also provide service using the major carriers' networks.

How can I protect myself from scam calls?

• Register your number on the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce legitimate telemarketing calls.
• Use your carrier's spam blocking services (many are now included free or at low cost).
• Never provide personal information, account numbers, or Social Security numbers to unexpected callers.
• Verify caller identity by hanging up and calling back using a known legitimate number.
• Report scam calls to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or 1-877-FTC-HELP.
• Be aware that caller ID can be spoofed; scammers can make calls appear to come from local 716/624 numbers or trusted entities.

Conclusion: Your Guide to 716 Phone Numbers in Western New York

Area Code 716 (and its overlay partner 624) serves as vital telecommunications infrastructure for Western New York's communities and businesses. From its establishment in 1947 as one of the original North American area codes to the 2023 introduction of the 624 overlay, the region's numbering plan has evolved to meet growing demand while maintaining continuity for existing users.

Key takeaways for Buffalo and Western New York phone numbers:

• Always use 10-digit dialing (area code + 7-digit number) for local calls within the 716/624 region
• Existing 716 numbers remain unchanged; new numbers may receive either 716 or 624
• The region operates in the Eastern Time Zone (ET)
• Emergency services (911) and the 988 crisis lifeline are available using 3-digit codes
• Multiple carriers and VoIP providers compete in the market, offering diverse service options
• Number portability allows you to keep your 716/624 number when changing providers

Whether you're a long-time resident, a new arrival, or a business establishing a presence in Buffalo and Western New York, understanding these telecommunications fundamentals will help you stay effectively connected in this dynamic region.