Everything You Need to Know About 978
So you got a call from a 978 number and you're wondering where it came from? That's Massachusetts. More specifically, 978 covers Lowell and places like Lawrence.
This area code has been around for 28 years now - it was created in 1997. It was added when the region needed more phone numbers as the population grew.
Quick Tip
People in the 978 area are on Eastern Time (ET). If you're in a different time zone, double-check before calling so you don't reach them at an awkward hour.
Here's Something Worth Knowing
Just because you see 978 on your caller ID doesn't guarantee the person is actually sitting in Massachusetts right now. Since 2003, people can take their phone numbers with them when they move. Your old college roommate who grew up near Lowell? They might be living in Texas now but still using their 978 number.
That said, a 978 number usually means the person originally got their phone number somewhere in Massachusetts. Or they specifically chose a 978 number for business reasons - maybe to seem local to customers in the Lowell area.
How to Dial a 978 Number
If you're calling from somewhere else in the country, just dial 1 + 978 + the 7-digit number. Calling from overseas? Use your country's exit code (usually 00 or +), then 1 for the US, then 978 and the rest.
Should You Be Worried About Scams?
Here's the honest truth: scammers can fake any area code they want, including 978. It's called "spoofing" and it's frustratingly common. So if you get a call from 978that feels off - someone asking for your Social Security number, claiming you won a prize, or demanding immediate payment for something - trust your gut and hang up.
Real businesses and government agencies don't cold call asking for sensitive info. If you're unsure whether a call was legit, look up the company's official number yourself and call them back.
Cities and Towns Using 978
The 978 area code serves quite a few places across Massachusetts. Here's where you might find someone with this area code: