Where Is Area Code 773 Located? Full Guide to the Chicago Phone Code

Where Is Area Code 773 Located? Full Guide to the Chicago Phone Code

If you’ve ever received a phone call from a 773 area code, you might wonder: Where exactly is area code 773 located? Whether you’re tracing a missed call, planning to move, or simply curious about the origins of your number, understanding the location of area code 773 gives valuable insight into Chicago’s communication network and history.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 773 area code—its exact location, coverage area, history, and interesting facts.

What Is Area Code 773?

Area code 773 is a telephone area code in Illinois, United States. It specifically serves the city of Chicago, covering most of the city’s regions outside of downtown Chicago.

It was first introduced on October 12, 1996, when it was split from area code 312, which originally served all of Chicago. As the city’s population and demand for telephone numbers grew, the split became necessary to accommodate more phone lines—especially with the rise of mobile phones and businesses.

So, if you’re seeing 773 on your caller ID, the call likely originates from somewhere in Chicago’s neighborhoods rather than its downtown area.

Location of Area Code 773

Now, to directly answer the main question:

✅ The location of area code 773 is in the city of Chicago, Illinois (USA), primarily covering the northern, western, and southern neighborhoods of the city—excluding the downtown area.

Here’s a more specific breakdown:

• North Side: Rogers Park, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Edgewater

• West Side: Austin, Humboldt Park, and Garfield Park

• South Side: Englewood, Auburn Gresham, and Chicago Lawn

If your number starts with 773, it means it’s based somewhere in Chicago’s local neighborhoods, not downtown or in the suburbs.

773 vs. 312: What’s the Difference?

Before 1996, 312 was the only area code serving the entire city of Chicago. However, with the city’s growing population, an additional area code was required to handle the surge in phone numbers.

• 312 Area Code: Now reserved for downtown Chicago, including the Loop, Near North Side, and surrounding business districts.

• 773 Area Code: Covers the outer regions of the city—essentially everything except downtown.

Both area codes are often associated with Chicago’s identity. In fact, locals sometimes identify themselves by their area codes, proudly saying they’re from the “773 side” or the “312 side.”

Overlay with Area Code 872

In 2009, the 872 area code was introduced as an overlay for both 312 and 773. That means new phone numbers in the same geographic area could have the 872 code, but they still belong to Chicago.

Since then, residents must dial 10 digits (the area code + number) even for local calls.

Famous Landmarks Within Area Code 773

The 773 area code encompasses many of Chicago’s most famous cultural, historical, and entertainment landmarks. Some of them include:

• Wrigley Field – Home of the Chicago Cubs

• Lincoln Park Zoo – One of the oldest free zoos in the United States

• Garfield Park Conservatory – A stunning botanical attraction

• Wicker Park & Logan Square – Trendy areas known for nightlife, cafes, and art scenes

• Chicago’s South Side neighborhoods – Famous for their musical and cultural heritage

These areas make the 773 region one of the most vibrant and diverse parts of the city.

Why the 773 Area Code Matters Today

Even though many people now rely on cell phones that aren’t tied to a specific region, area codes still carry strong local identity. In Chicago, the 773 code is a badge of pride, representing authentic Chicago neighborhoods.

Businesses in these areas often use 773 numbers to emphasize their local Chicago roots, making them instantly recognizable to residents.

Moreover, the location of area code 773 can help identify potential scams or spam calls. If you receive a call from 773 and you’re not in the Chicago area, it might be worth verifying before responding.

Learn More About Area Codes and Chicago

For deeper details about Chicago’s telecommunications history and numbering systems, you can visit this reliable resource:
👉 https://en.wikipedia.org

That link includes extensive information about North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and how cities like Chicago manage multiple area codes.

Interesting Facts About the 773 Area Code

Here are a few fascinating tidbits about area code 773:

• It’s often featured in Chicago-based TV shows, rap songs, and movies, symbolizing the city’s neighborhoods.

• Many local businesses intentionally advertise “773” in their phone numbers for marketing and identity.

• Chicago’s sports teams and fans frequently use the 773 code in fan merchandise and social media hashtags.

• Because 773 covers diverse areas—from middle-class neighborhoods to historic districts—it represents a wide range of Chicago life.

Final Thoughts

The location of area code 773 is more than just a technical detail—it’s a piece of Chicago’s identity. Covering the vast neighborhoods outside of downtown, this area code tells a story of growth, culture, and community pride.

So next time you spot a 773 number, you’ll know it’s coming from the heart of Chicago’s neighborhoods—a symbol of the city’s lively, authentic spirit.