Canada will have a total of 55 area codes by the end of May, with British Columbia set to introduce its newest one, 257. CTV
A few decades ago, Canadians could link area codes to exact places. If someone said 416, people instantly thought of Toronto. Mention 604, and British Columbia came to mind. But those days are fading fast.
Now, Toronto has just received its fourth area code — 942. British Columbia is set to get its sixth code, 257, by the end of May.
Why Are New Codes Appearing?
The answer is simple. Phone number demand keeps growing. Telecom carriers are running out of available numbers in many places.
It’s not just phones anymore. These days, numbers are assigned to things like tablets, cars, and even traffic lights. Kelly Walsh from the Canadian Numbering Administrator (CNA) says, “Anything that communicates wirelessly may potentially be using up a number.”
How Many Area Codes Does Canada Have?
Back in 1993, Canada had only 15 area codes. By the end of this month, that number will reach 55. That’s a massive jump in just over 30 years.
Sean Iovacchini, who runs a Toronto-based business selling recycled phone numbers, says he often has to look up area codes himself now. “There’s a lot of new area codes and I don’t know them,” he admits.
Why Do People Want Classic Codes?
Iovacchini’s company, Number Shack, sells old numbers with classic area codes like 416. These are especially popular with small businesses trying to build trust. “It builds that trust,” he explains. “If it’s a new startup business and you have a 416, people assume you’ve been around for a while.”
Some numbers sell for around $50. But rare or easy-to-remember ones can go for much more. One example, 416-287-0000, had a listing price of $4,450.
Are We Running Out of Area Codes?
There’s a chance North America may run out of new area codes in the future. Walsh says this might happen around 2061, or possibly sooner — as early as 2054.
If that happens, we may have to start dialing 11 digits or more instead of the usual 10.
What Do People Think of the New Codes?
Not everyone is thrilled about the new area codes. Some Toronto residents think 942 doesn’t feel like a local number. One person said, “They’re adding so many that it’s kind of lost its aura.”
Another added, “Each code has lost its uniqueness.”
Still, with the growing use of smart devices and wireless tech, it looks like new area codes are here to stay.
