Everything you need to know about area code 978 in Massachusetts
QUICK FACTS
Massachusetts
Eastern Time Zone
Split from existing code
Estimated residents served
Massachusetts
Primary code for this region
ABOUT THIS AREA CODE
Area code 978 covers northeastern Massachusetts including Lowell, Lawrence, and the North Shore. It serves the Merrimack Valley, Cape Ann, and historic Essex County.
Phone numbers with the 978 area code follow the format (978) XXX-XXXX, where the next three digits represent the local exchange. The 978 area code is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
If you receive a call from a 978 number that you don't recognize, you can search it using the lookup tool above. While the 978 area code legitimately serves millions of residents and businesses in the Lowell area, scammers sometimes spoof local area codes to make their calls appear more trustworthy. Always verify unfamiliar numbers before returning calls or sharing personal information.
The Lowell region served by area code 978 is one of the most significant areas in Massachusetts. As a primary geographic code, 978 has been the main identifier for this region since it was introduced in 1997.
For detailed information about any phone number in the 978 area code, including owner identification, carrier data, and spam reports, use our search tool above or visit one of our trusted lookup providers.
CITIES & COMMUNITIES
SPAM & SCAM ALERTS
These are frequently reported scam patterns from phone numbers using the 978 area code. Scammers often spoof area codes, so a call appearing to come from 978 may originate elsewhere.
Callers offer free medical devices or insurance plans to collect your Medicare ID and personal health information for identity theft.
You are told you have won a prize but must pay taxes or fees upfront. Legitimate sweepstakes never require advance payment.
Fake collectors threaten legal action over debts you don't owe. Real collectors must provide written validation within 5 days of first contact.
Stay Safe: Never share personal information with incoming callers. If suspicious, hang up and search the number above.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Area code 978 serves Lowell, Massachusetts. Area code 978 covers northeastern Massachusetts including Lowell, Lawrence, and the North Shore. It serves the Merrimack Valley, Cape Ann, and historic Essex County.
Area code 978 is in the Eastern timezone. Calls from 978 numbers originate from the Lowell region.
Not necessarily. Area code 978 serves many people in Lowell. However, scammers can spoof any area code. If you receive a suspicious call from a 978 number, search it above before calling back.
Area code 978 was created in 1997. It serves as the primary geographic code for its region.
WHO CALLED ME
If you received an unknown call from a 978 number, use our dedicated lookup page to identify the caller and check for scam reports.
Who Called Me From 978? →