Elgin, IL Area Information

Area Code 224: Chicago's Northern and Northwestern Suburbs

Area code 224 serves the northern and northwestern suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. This area code, introduced in 2002, overlays with the 847 area code, covering a region known for its diverse communities, excellent schools, and proximity to one of America's largest cities.

Coverage and History

Implemented in January 2002, area code 224 was created as an overlay for the existing 847 area code due to the rapid growth and increasing demand for new phone numbers in Chicago's suburbs. It covers key areas including:

• Arlington Heights
• Evanston
• Schaumburg
• Elgin
• Waukegan

The introduction of 224 reflects the region's continuous development and the expansion of Chicago's metropolitan area.

Local Attractions and Points of Interest

The 224 area boasts numerous attractions, including:

• Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg
• Northwestern University in Evanston
• Six Flags Great America in Gurnee
• Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe
• Ravinia Festival in Highland Park

These sites offer a mix of educational, entertainment, and cultural experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Neighboring Area Codes

The 224 area code is surrounded by several other codes:

• 847 (overlays with 224)
• 312 (downtown Chicago)
• 773 (Chicago city, excluding downtown)

Phone Number Insights

In today's digital age, understanding the origin of a phone number is crucial for personal and business communications. A 224 area code typically indicates a caller from Chicago's northern or northwestern suburbs, but it's always wise to verify unknown numbers. For a thorough reverse phone lookup, consider using Phone Detective. This tool can help you identify callers and protect yourself from potential scams or unwanted calls.

Economic Landscape

The 224 region has a diverse and robust economy, with key sectors including:

• Technology and innovation
• Healthcare
• Finance and insurance
• Manufacturing
• Retail and hospitality

The area's proximity to Chicago and O'Hare International Airport contributes to its economic strength and provides numerous employment opportunities.

Education and Research

The 224 area is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including:

• Northwestern University
• Oakton Community College
• Harper College
• Lake Forest College

These institutions play crucial roles in research, innovation, and workforce development in the region.

Cultural Diversity

The suburbs covered by the 224 area code are known for their cultural diversity, reflected in:

• A wide variety of ethnic restaurants and markets
• Cultural festivals and events throughout the year
• Diverse religious institutions
• Multilingual communities

Recreation and Green Spaces

Despite its suburban nature, the 224 area offers numerous recreational opportunities:

• Forest preserves and hiking trails
• Lake Michigan beaches
• Golf courses
• Bike paths and parks

Conclusion

The 224 area code represents a region of cultural diversity, economic opportunity, and high quality of life in Chicago's northern and northwestern suburbs. Whether you're receiving a call from this area or planning a visit, understanding the significance of 224 provides valuable context about this dynamic part of Illinois.

For more information on phone numbers and area codes across the United States, explore our other state pages or use our phone number lookup tools. Stay informed and connected with Phone Detective, your reliable source for phone number information and security.