The Last Frontier stands out among U.S. states not just for its breathtaking wilderness and unique geography, but also for its telecommunications simplicity. The entire state operates under a single area code: 907. Whether you’re a business owner looking to establish local credibility, a traveler planning to stay connected, or simply curious about this phone system, this guide covers everything you need to know about the 907 area code.
Quick Facts About Alaska Area Code 907
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Area Code | 907 |
| Year Established | 1957 |
| Geographic Coverage | Entire state (665,400 square miles) |
| Time Zone | AKST (UTC-9) |
| Population Served | Approximately 730,000 residents |
| Cities Covered | All communities statewide |
| Future Status | No overlay or split planned until 2049+ |
| Unique Feature | One of only 11 U.S. states with a single area code |
What Cities and Regions Use 907?
Major Cities Covered
The 907 area code serves every incorporated city and unincorporated community throughout the state. Major population centers include Anchorage (the largest city with nearly 290,000 residents), Fairbanks, Juneau (the capital), Sitka, Ketchikan, Wasilla, Kenai, Kodiak, Bethel, and Palmer. From bustling urban centers to remote villages accessible only by bush plane, every phone number in the state starts with 907.
Geographic Regions
The 907 area code spans five distinct geographic regions. Southeast, often called the Panhandle, includes communities like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka. Southcentral encompasses Anchorage, the Kenai Peninsula, and the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. Interior centers around Fairbanks and extends to remote areas like the Yukon-Koyukuk region. Southwest covers the Aleutian Islands and Bristol Bay communities, while the Arctic and North Slope region includes Barrow (Utqiaġvik) and Prudhoe Bay.
One notable exception exists: the tiny town of Hyder, located on the Canadian border, uses Canadian area codes (250 and 604) due to its geographic isolation from the rest of the state.
Why Does the State Have Only One Area Code?
The single area code status reflects a unique demographic reality. With just 730,000 residents spread across 665,400 square miles, this is the largest U.S. state by area but ranks 48th in population. This low population density means the demand for phone numbers remains manageable under a single numbering system.
To put this in perspective, the state has roughly the same population as Seattle alone, yet covers an area more than twice the size of Texas. States like California require over 30 area codes to serve their dense populations, while the number supply here remains sufficient through at least 2049. The vast distances between communities and the challenges of connecting remote villages have historically limited telephone adoption, further reducing pressure on the numbering system.
This singular area code has become part of the state’s identity, offering residents a sense of unity despite the enormous geographic distances separating them.
History of the 907 Area Code
Before 1957, the territory operated without an area code designation. Phone service existed dating back to the 1930s, but it wasn’t integrated into the North American Numbering Plan. This changed in 1956 when a submarine cable was installed to connect the telecommunications infrastructure to the continental United States.
On January 1, 1957, the 907 area code was assigned, becoming the 104th area code established in North America. At the time, statehood wouldn’t be achieved until 1959. The area code covered only the more populated regions initially, with remote areas gradually added as infrastructure expanded.
For decades, residents could dial local numbers using just seven digits. This changed in October 2021 when the Federal Communications Commission mandated 10-digit dialing across the state. This transition was necessary to implement the 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which required three-digit access without conflicting with existing seven-digit numbers beginning with 988.
How to Dial Alaska Numbers
From Within The state
If you’re calling from one Alaska number to another, you must use 10-digit dialing. Enter the full number in the format 907-XXX-XXXX. There’s no need to dial “1” before the area code for in-state calls. This applies whether you’re calling across the street or from Ketchikan to Barrow, hundreds of miles away.
From Other U.S. States
Calling Alaska from anywhere else in the United States follows standard long-distance dialing procedures. Dial 1-907-XXX-XXXX. While Alaska is geographically distant, it’s considered a domestic call, not an international one. Standard U.S. long-distance rates apply, though most modern cell phone plans include Alaska coverage at no additional charge.
International Calls to Alaska
When dialing Alaska from outside the United States, remember that Alaska uses the U.S. country code. The format is +1-907-XXX-XXXX. Your specific dialing sequence depends on your country’s exit code. For example, from the United Kingdom, you would dial 00-1-907-XXX-XXXX. From Mexico, dial 00-1-907-XXX-XXXX. From Australia, dial 0011-1-907-XXX-XXXX.
How to Get an Alaska 907 Phone Number
Traditional Phone Service
Local telecommunications carriers provide traditional landline and cellular service with 907 numbers. Major providers include GCI (General Communication Inc.), Alaska Communications (ACS), and AT&T Alaska. Getting a number through these carriers typically requires an Alaska service address and may involve installation appointments for landline service.
Virtual/VoIP Options
You don’t need to live in Alaska to obtain a 907 phone number. Virtual phone services and VoIP providers allow anyone to get an Alaska area code regardless of their physical location. Services like Grasshopper, RingCentral, Nextiva, and Google Voice offer 907 numbers that route to your existing phone or computer.
This option is particularly valuable for businesses seeking to establish a presence in Alaska without physical offices, remote workers who want to maintain their Alaska identity after relocating, or companies targeting customers in that state. Virtual 907 numbers typically cost between $10 and $30 per month, often including features such as call forwarding, voicemail transcription, and business hours routing.
Mobile Carriers
National mobile carriers including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile serve Alaska with varying coverage levels. When activating service in Alaska, you’ll automatically receive a 907 number. Keep in mind that rural Alaska presents unique coverage challenges, with some remote communities having limited or no cellular service. Local carrier GCI often provides the most comprehensive coverage across the state, including many bush communities.
Business Benefits of Having a 907 Number
For businesses targeting Alaska customers, a 907 area code delivers measurable advantages. Local numbers establish immediate credibility and trust. Alaskans often view out-of-state area codes with skepticism, particularly in industries like tourism, real estate, and professional services where local expertise matters.
The tourism industry especially benefits from 907 numbers. Hotels, fishing lodges, tour operators, and charter services find that potential customers respond more favorably to Alaska area codes. Studies show that businesses with local numbers see response rates 30% higher than those displaying out-of-state numbers when advertising within state markets.
Remote workers and digital nomads who maintain Alaska client bases preserve professional relationships by keeping their 907 numbers even after relocating. The area code signals continued connection to the Alaska community and business environment. Additionally, customers calling a 907 number feel they’re making a local call rather than an expensive long-distance connection, removing a psychological barrier to contact.
Alaska Time Zone and Best Times to Call
This State operates on its Standard Time (AKST), which is UTC-9 during the winter months. During daylight saving time (mid-March through early November), Alaska switches to Alaska Daylight Time (AKDT) at UTC-8. These places are four hours behind the East Coast, three hours behind the Central time zone, two hours behind Mountain time, and one hour behind Pacific time.
When scheduling calls to this state, remember that 9 AM in Anchorage is 1 PM in New York, 12 PM in Chicago, 11 AM in Denver, and 10 AM in Los Angeles. Standard business hours run from 9 AM to 5 PM AKST. For the best chance of reaching businesses and residents, call between 10 AM and 4 PM Alaska time, which falls within normal working hours regardless of where you’re calling from in the continental U.S.
Common Issues and Solutions
Verification Problems
Occasionally, online forms or automated systems incorrectly flag 907 numbers as invalid, particularly on websites designed primarily for the lower 48 states. If you encounter verification issues with an Alaska number, contact the service provider’s customer support. Most can manually verify Alaska phone numbers or adjust their validation systems.
Spam and Robocalls
Like all area codes, 907 numbers are sometimes spoofed by scammers hoping the Alaska area code lends legitimacy. Be cautious of unexpected calls claiming to be from Alaska government agencies, particularly those demanding immediate payment or personal information. Legitimate Alaska businesses and agencies never threaten arrest or demand gift card payments over the phone. Your phone carrier’s spam blocking features can help filter many of these calls.
Rural Coverage Gaps
Alaska’s remote geography creates unique connectivity challenges. Many bush villages have limited or no cellular coverage, relying instead on satellite phones or VHF radio communication. If you’re traveling to remote Alaska locations, research coverage maps before departing and consider renting a satellite phone. Services like Iridium and Globalstar provide backup communication in areas where traditional 907 numbers don’t function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 907 the only area code in Alaska?
Yes, 907 is Alaska’s sole area code, covering the entire state from Ketchikan in the southeast to Barrow in the Arctic. Alaska is one of only 11 U.S. states operating with a single area code.
Will Alaska get a second area code?
Not in the foreseeable future. Current projections indicate the 907 area code has sufficient available numbers to serve Alaska through at least 2049, possibly longer, depending on population growth and number allocation patterns.
Are calls to Alaska considered long-distance?
From other U.S. states, calls to Alaska are domestic long-distance, not international. Most modern cell phone plans include Alaska in their standard coverage. Traditional landline long-distance rates apply if you’re calling from an older phone plan.
Can I get a 907 number without living in Alaska?
Yes, VoIP and virtual phone service providers offer 907 numbers to anyone regardless of location. These services are popular with businesses wanting Alaska presence and individuals maintaining Alaska connections after relocating.
What's the emergency number in Alaska?
911 provides emergency services throughout Alaska, just like the rest of the United States. However, in extremely remote areas without cellular coverage, emergency communication may require satellite phones or a radio.
Do I need to dial 1 before 907?
When calling from outside Alaska, yes. Within Alaska, use 10-digit dialing (907-XXX-XXXX) without the preceding “1” for local calls.
Conclusion
Alaska’s 907 area code represents more than just a numbering system. It’s a unifying element across America’s largest and most geographically diverse state. Established in 1957 and still going strong nearly 70 years later, the 907 has become synonymous with Alaska itself.
Whether you need a 907 number for business credibility, personal use, or maintaining connections to the Last Frontier, obtaining one is straightforward through traditional carriers or virtual phone services. With no area code changes expected until 2049 or beyond, the 907 remains a stable, recognizable identifier for all things Alaska.
Ready to establish your Alaska presence? Getting your 907 number today connects you to a state as vast and unique as its telecommunications footprint.