Frequently Asked Questions
Attleboro, Massachusetts is primarily covered by area code 774, which is an overlay of area code 508. Both area codes serve the same geographic region in southeastern Massachusetts, requiring 10-digit dialing for all local calls.
To dial a 774 number from another area code, dial 1 followed by the 10-digit number (1-774-XXX-XXXX). This applies whether the call is local or long-distance within the North American Numbering Plan.
10-digit dialing (including the area code) is mandatory for all calls within the 774 and 508 area codes. This was implemented in 2001 when 774 was introduced as an overlay to 508, ensuring accurate call routing and avoiding confusion between the two area codes.
Area code 774 is overlaid on area code 508. This means they both serve the same geographic area in southeastern Massachusetts. The overlay was introduced to accommodate the increasing demand for phone numbers in the region.
Area code 774 covers portions of Worcester County, Bristol County, and Plymouth County in southeastern Massachusetts. Worcester County accounts for roughly 24% of the 774 user base, while Bristol accounts for about 19%.
Area code 774 covers several major cities in southeastern Massachusetts, including Worcester, New Bedford, Brockton, Fall River, Framingham, Taunton, and Attleboro. Worcester, the second largest city in New England, is also part of the 774/508 overlay.
Area code 774 was implemented on May 2, 2001, as an overlay to area code 508. This was a necessary step due to the growing demand for telephone numbers in southeastern Massachusetts, driven by population growth and increasing mobile phone usage.
Even within the 774 area code, always dial all 10 digits (774-XXX-XXXX). This is part of the mandatory 10-digit dialing implemented with the overlay. Following this practice ensures accurate call routing and avoids connection issues.
The approximate geographic center of the 774/508 overlay region is located at latitude 41.94454 and longitude -71.28561.
Area code 774 supports various telecommunications services including landline, mobile, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), and data services like DSL, cable, and fiber optic internet connections. These services cater to both residential and business needs.
Yes, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services are available within the 774 area code, offering an alternative to traditional landline services. The Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Cable (DTC) regulates these services in the region.
Based on 2018 projections, the combined 508/774 numbering plan area is expected to be exhausted by 2045. This prediction underscores the continued growth and demand for phone numbers in the region.
Area code 774 is primarily related to area code 508, which it overlays. Area code 978, created in 1997 from a split of the original 508, serves northern and northeastern Massachusetts and is also related.
If you have trouble dialing a 774 number, ensure you are dialing all 10 digits, including the area code. Verify the number is active and, if using VoIP, check your internet connection. For persistent problems, contact your service provider.
Area Code 774: Coverage, Cities, and Services in Massachusetts
Area code 774 serves a vital role in the telecommunications infrastructure of southeastern Massachusetts. This guide provides a detailed overview of its history, geographic coverage, dialing procedures, associated regulations, and the telecommunications landscape it supports. You'll gain a practical understanding of how area code 774 functions and its significance within the broader North American Numbering Plan (NANP).
Area Code Overlays
Before diving into the specifics of 774, let's clarify the concept of an overlay. An overlay area code shares the same geographic region as an existing area code. This approach allows for the introduction of new telephone numbers within an area without requiring existing customers to change their numbers. This is a crucial strategy for managing number exhaustion in high-growth areas. Area code 774 is an overlay of area code 508, meaning they both serve the same geographic area in southeastern Massachusetts. This overlay implementation, which began in 2001, made 10-digit dialing mandatory for all local calls within the region. This mandatory 10-digit dialing ensures accurate call routing and avoids confusion between the two area codes.
Geographic Coverage of Area Code 774
Area code 774 primarily covers southeastern Massachusetts, overlapping with area code 508. While Attleboro is often cited as a primary city, the coverage area extends to several major cities and numerous smaller towns.
Here's a breakdown of the geographic reach:
The approximate geographic center of the 774/508 overlay is located at:
Regulatory and Dialing Information
Understanding the dialing procedures and regulations associated with area code 774 is essential for seamless communication. You should familiarize yourself with these standards:
Key takeaway: Always dial all 10 digits, even for local calls within the 774 area code. This practice ensures accurate call routing and is consistent with the mandatory 10-digit dialing implemented with the overlay.
Telecommunications Services within Area Code 774
Area code 774 supports a wide range of telecommunications services, catering to both residential and business needs. These services include:
The Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Cable (DTC) oversees these telecommunications providers, striving to ensure reliable service and reasonable costs for consumers. You can find a list of licensed telecommunications operators in Massachusetts on the DTC website (https://services.oca.state.ma.us/dtc/frmTelecomList.aspx).
History and Implementation of Area Code 774
Area code 774 was introduced on May 2, 2001, as an overlay to area code 508. This implementation was necessary due to the increasing demand for telephone numbers in the region, driven by population growth and the proliferation of mobile devices. The overlay method allowed for the addition of new numbers without disrupting existing customers. The North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) manages the allocation of area codes and prefixes, ensuring the efficient use of numbering resources. As of 2018, the 508/774 NPA is projected to be exhausted by 2045, highlighting the continued growth in the region.
Related Area Codes and the Broader Context
Area code 774 is part of a larger numbering plan area that includes:
Understanding these related area codes provides valuable context for the telecommunications landscape of Massachusetts. The NANP, which governs these area codes, is a critical component of the North American telecommunications infrastructure, enabling seamless communication across international borders. It's worth noting that the NANP itself is a testament to international cooperation, encompassing 20 countries and 25 numbering plan areas.
Troubleshooting and Best Practices
While dialing within the 774 area code is generally straightforward, you might encounter occasional issues. Here are some common scenarios and troubleshooting tips:
Best Practice: Always save contacts with the full 10-digit number, including the area code. This eliminates dialing errors and ensures consistent communication.
Conclusion
Area code 774 is a crucial part of the telecommunications network in southeastern Massachusetts. By understanding its history, coverage, dialing procedures, and related regulations, you can navigate the region's telecommunications landscape effectively. This comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge to communicate seamlessly within and beyond the 774 area code.