Get an Area Code 249 Business Phone and Answering Service
October 14, 2025

Get a 249 Area Code Business Phone & Answering Service

A phone number with the 249 area code instantly connects you to the heart of Central and Northern Ontario. Covering communities like Sudbury, North Bay, and Barrie, this area code reflects both growth and opportunity. 

Having 249 isn’t just about making calls—it’s about being recognized as part of a region known for its resilience, expanding industries, and strong community ties. It’s a number that signals belonging and trust while giving you a local presence in one of Ontario’s most dynamic regions.

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What is 249 Area Code?

The 249 area code is a telephone area code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) that was introduced on March 5, 2011. It was created as an overlay for the existing 705 area code to serve a vast region of Central and Northeastern Ontario.

  • State: Ontario, Canada
  • Major Cities: Barrie, Greater Sudbury, Orillia, North Bay
  • Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)/Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
  • Established: 2011 (as an overlay for the 705 area code)
  • Overlay Area Codes: 705
  • Region Population: The region covered by 249 has a population of over 1.3 million people.

Regions Covered by 249 Area Code 

The 249 area code serves a significant portion of Central and Northeastern Ontario, an area known for its beautiful natural landscapes, a strong tourism industry, and a diverse economic landscape rooted in mining, forestry, and manufacturing:

Cities
  • Barrie
  • Greater Sudbury
  • Orillia
  • North Bay
  • Sault Ste. Marie
  • Timmins
  • Collingwood
  • Wasaga Beach
  • Thunder Bay
  • Bracebridge
  • Huntsville
  • Elliot Lake
  • Midland
  • Parry Sound
  • Pembroke
Communities
  • Abitibi Canyon
  • Algoma Mills
  • Algonquin Highlands
  • Angus
  • Armstrong
  • Atikokan
  • Bala
  • Baysville
  • Beeton
  • Blind River
  • Bobcaygeon
  • Brechin
  • Burk's Falls
  • Cache Bay
  • Callander
  • Campbellford
  • Capreol
  • Chapleau
  • Cobalt
  • Cochrane
  • Kirkland Lake
  • Lakefield
  • Larder Lake
  • Lively
  • Maniwaki
  • Marathon
  • Massey
  • Mattawa
  • Minden
  • Moosonee
  • Muskoka
  • New Liskeard
  • Nobel
  • Norwood
  • Ojibway
  • Onaping Falls
  • Port Carling
  • Port Loring
  • Powassan
  • Creemore
  • Desbarats
  • Dwight
  • Espanola
  • Falconbridge
  • Fauquier
  • Fenelon Falls
  • Fort Albany
  • Fort Hope
  • Gore Bay
  • Goulais River
  • Gravenhurst
  • Haliburton
  • Hanmer
  • Havelock
  • Hearst
  • Honey Harbour
  • Iroquois Falls
  • Kapuskasing
  • Killarney
  • Rosseau
  • Sioux Lookout
  • Smooth Rock Falls
  • South Porcupine
  • South River
  • Spanish
  • Sturgeon Falls
  • Sundridge
  • Swastika
  • Temagami
  • Thessalon
  • Tottenham
  • Trout Creek
  • Virginiatown
  • White River
  • Wiarton
  • Widdifield
  • Ramore

Population & Demographics of 249 Area Code 

The region covered by the 249 area code has a diverse population with key sectors including mining, forestry, tourism, and a growing presence in technology and education. The area is known for its rugged beauty, attracting tourists and new residents to its scenic towns and cities. 

The economy is also supported by its strategic location connecting major metropolitan areas in the south with the vast natural resources of the north. The area has seen significant growth in recent decades, attracting families and businesses from the more expensive urban regions of Southern Ontario. 

249 Area Code Time Zone 

The 249 area code operates in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), which is UTC -5 during standard time and UTC -4 during daylight saving time. This is the same time zone as major North American cities like Toronto, Montreal, and New York.

Business Importance of 249 Area Code 

Did you know that having a local business number can increase customer trust and improve call response rates? For companies serving Central Ontario, using a 249 area code can help you build credibility and connect more effectively with local customers.

Why Local Numbers Build Trust 

In a digital age where businesses can be located anywhere, a local phone number is a tangible signal of presence and commitment. Studies show that people are nearly four times more likely to pick up calls from local numbers as compared to toll-free or out-of-area numbers.

For potential customers in the 249 region, seeing a local number instills a sense of trust and familiarity. Calls from the 249 area code can significantly increase the likelihood of a call being answered and a lead being converted. A foreign number or an out-of-area number is more likely to be branded as spam by potential customers.

Enterprise Businesses That Benefit From a Local 249 Number 

Prominent enterprises that would benefit from a local 249 number operate across various sectors:

Mining & Resource Extraction

The 249 area code, which serves Northern and Central Ontario, is a key region for mining and resource extraction. Companies in this sector require consistent communication for site operations, logistics, and safety protocols.

  • Vale: Major presence in Sudbury, with large-scale nickel and copper mining operations.
  • Glencore: Based in the Sudbury basin of Ontario.
  • Barrick Gold: Major gold mining company with operations in the Timmins area.

Technology

Technology firms in the 249 area code support local businesses and regional industries. AI answering systems help provide round-the-clock IT support, client onboarding, and technical assistance.

  • IBM Canada: Has a presence in North Bay, providing technology services to the region.
  • CGI: A global IT and business consulting services firm with a significant office in Timmins.
  • Ericsson: Based in Timmins, a telecommunications company. 

Health and Wellness

Hospitals and health centers in the 249 area code require round-the-clock patient communication while maintaining confidentiality. AI answering services help manage appointment scheduling and urgent care inquiries seamlessly.

  • Health Sciences North: A major hospital and medical center located in Sudbury.
  • Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre: A key hospital located in Barrie, serving the Simcoe Muskoka region.
  • Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital: A hospital located in Orillia, providing care to the surrounding communities.

Logistics & Distribution

Logistics companies in the 249 area code thrive on real-time communication for deliveries, freight updates, and customer support. Answering services ensure operations run smoothly without overwhelming in-house staff.

  • FedEx: A global logistics leader with distribution facilities in the Barrie area.
  • Purolator: A Canadian courier and logistics company with a strong presence in the Barrie area.
  • UPS: A global shipping and logistics company with a major presence in Sudbury.

Education

The 249 area code is home to several universities and colleges that require reliable communication for student services, admissions, and campus inquiries. Answering services help manage high call volumes.

  • Laurentian University: A bilingual university located in Sudbury.
  • Nipissing University: A public university located in North Bay.
  • Canadore College: A college of applied arts and technology with its main campus in North Bay.
  • Georgian College: A college with a major campus located in Barrie.

Finance and Banking

Banks in the 249 area code rely on consistent customer communication for loan inquiries, account support, and fraud alerts. AI answering services help reduce wait times and route calls effectively.

  • TD Canada Trust: A major Canadian bank with numerous branches in the Barrie area.
  • Royal Bank of Canada: One of Canada's largest banks, with a strong presence in Sudbury.
  • Scotiabank: A major Canadian bank with branches located in Timmins.
  • Bank of Montreal: A leading Canadian bank with a strong network of branches in North Bay.

Insurance

The insurance sector in the 249 area requires constant customer support for claims, policy updates, and emergency response. AI answering services streamline client interactions and reduce wait times.

  • The Co-operators: A national insurance cooperative with offices in North Bay.
  • Desjardins Insurance: Has a strong presence in the Sudbury area.
  • Sun Life Financial: A major Canadian financial services company with offices in Barrie.
  • Manulife Financial: A major Canadian insurance and financial services company with a presence in Sudbury.
  • Wawanesa Insurance: A Canadian insurance company with offices in North Bay.

How to Get a 249 Area Code Number?

Setting up your 249 area code number with Goodcall is quick and straightforward. Here’s how it works:

  1. Sign Up: Create your account with Goodcall using basic business details.
  2. Select Your Plan: Choose the pricing plan that best matches your company’s needs.
  3. Complete KYC: Verify your identity and business information for compliance.
  4. Pick a Number: Browse the available 249 numbers and select the one you want.
  5. Customize Agent: Set up your AI-powered answering agent with greetings, call routing, and voicemail preferences.
  6. Go Live: Activate your number and start receiving calls immediately.

Benefits of Using Goodcall for the 249 Area Code

Choosing Goodcall means more than just getting a local number; it means equipping your business with tools to handle calls efficiently.

  • 24/7 Availability: Ensure no customer call is missed.
  • AI Answering Services: Professional, automated responses for smoother communication.
  • Cost-Effective: Flexible pricing designed for small to enterprise-level businesses.
  • Scalable Solutions: Upgrade features as your business grows.
  • Local Credibility: Build customer trust with a recognizable area code.

With these advantages, Goodcall makes it easier for you to manage calls and focus on growing your business.

Pricing Plans for Local Numbers

Our local 249 area code numbers come with affordable pricing plans designed to fit every business size. We offer flexible pricing options that scale with your needs, whether you’re a startup or an established enterprise. Additionally, you can save 30% on annual subscriptions, giving your business more value at a lower cost.

Nearby Area Codes to 249 

The 249 area code serves a large portion of Central and Northeastern Ontario. As an overlay area code, it shares its region with other area codes and is also surrounded by neighboring codes:

Areas Area Code
Central & Northeastern Ontario (Sudbury, Barrie, and Peterborough) 705
Eastern Ontario (Ottawa, Kingston, Belleville, and Cornwall) 613, 343
Greater Toronto Area and Golden Horseshoe (Halton, Peel, York, Durham, and parts of Northumberland County) 905, 289, 365
Northwestern Ontario (Thunder Bay, Kenora, and Fort Frances) 807

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the 249 area code, and where is it located? 

The 249 area code is located in the Canadian province of Ontario. It serves most of Central and Northeastern Ontario and was created in 2011 as an overlay for the existing 705 area code.

What cities does the 249 area code cover? 

The 249 area code covers a wide range of cities and towns, including major population centers like Barrie, Greater Sudbury, Orillia, North Bay, and Timmins.

What time zone is area code 249 in? 

The 249 area code operates in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), which is UTC-5 during standard time and UTC-4 during daylight saving time.

Does the 249 area code get spam calls? 

Yes, like any area code, numbers within the 249 area code can receive spam and robocalls. Using a trusted business provider can help in filtering unwanted calls.

Which types of businesses benefit most from a local 249 number? 

Businesses that benefit most from a local 249 number are those that rely on a local presence to build trust and credibility. This includes businesses in sectors like mining, forestry, tourism, real estate, and professional services, which often serve a specific local community in Central and Northeastern Ontario.

How can I get a local 249 area code number for my business? 

You can get a 249 number easily by signing up with Goodcall, choosing your plan, and selecting your preferred local number. 

Can I forward calls from my 249 number elsewhere? 

Yes. With Goodcall, you can forward calls to any phone, ensuring you never miss a customer inquiry. 

How much does it cost to get a 249 area code number? 

Goodcall plans are affordable and flexible, starting from $66 per month per agent annually. 

Is the 249 area code toll-free? 

No, 249 is not a toll-free area code. It is a geographic area code for Central and Northeastern Ontario, Canada. Toll-free numbers in the U.S. and Canada typically begin with prefixes like 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, and 844.

Last updated:
October 14, 2025

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AI Agent which is automatically answering the phone to serve your customers.

What is 249 Area Code?

The 249 area code is a telephone area code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) that was introduced on March 5, 2011. It was created as an overlay for the existing 705 area code to serve a vast region of Central and Northeastern Ontario.

  • State: Ontario, Canada
  • Major Cities: Barrie, Greater Sudbury, Orillia, North Bay
  • Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)/Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
  • Established: 2011 (as an overlay for the 705 area code)
  • Overlay Area Codes: 705
  • Region Population: The region covered by 249 has a population of over 1.3 million people.

Regions Covered by 249 Area Code 

The 249 area code serves a significant portion of Central and Northeastern Ontario, an area known for its beautiful natural landscapes, a strong tourism industry, and a diverse economic landscape rooted in mining, forestry, and manufacturing:

Cities
  • Barrie
  • Greater Sudbury
  • Orillia
  • North Bay
  • Sault Ste. Marie
  • Timmins
  • Collingwood
  • Wasaga Beach
  • Thunder Bay
  • Bracebridge
  • Huntsville
  • Elliot Lake
  • Midland
  • Parry Sound
  • Pembroke
Communities
  • Abitibi Canyon
  • Algoma Mills
  • Algonquin Highlands
  • Angus
  • Armstrong
  • Atikokan
  • Bala
  • Baysville
  • Beeton
  • Blind River
  • Bobcaygeon
  • Brechin
  • Burk's Falls
  • Cache Bay
  • Callander
  • Campbellford
  • Capreol
  • Chapleau
  • Cobalt
  • Cochrane
  • Kirkland Lake
  • Lakefield
  • Larder Lake
  • Lively
  • Maniwaki
  • Marathon
  • Massey
  • Mattawa
  • Minden
  • Moosonee
  • Muskoka
  • New Liskeard
  • Nobel
  • Norwood
  • Ojibway
  • Onaping Falls
  • Port Carling
  • Port Loring
  • Powassan
  • Creemore
  • Desbarats
  • Dwight
  • Espanola
  • Falconbridge
  • Fauquier
  • Fenelon Falls
  • Fort Albany
  • Fort Hope
  • Gore Bay
  • Goulais River
  • Gravenhurst
  • Haliburton
  • Hanmer
  • Havelock
  • Hearst
  • Honey Harbour
  • Iroquois Falls
  • Kapuskasing
  • Killarney
  • Rosseau
  • Sioux Lookout
  • Smooth Rock Falls
  • South Porcupine
  • South River
  • Spanish
  • Sturgeon Falls
  • Sundridge
  • Swastika
  • Temagami
  • Thessalon
  • Tottenham
  • Trout Creek
  • Virginiatown
  • White River
  • Wiarton
  • Widdifield
  • Ramore

Population & Demographics of 249 Area Code 

The region covered by the 249 area code has a diverse population with key sectors including mining, forestry, tourism, and a growing presence in technology and education. The area is known for its rugged beauty, attracting tourists and new residents to its scenic towns and cities. 

The economy is also supported by its strategic location connecting major metropolitan areas in the south with the vast natural resources of the north. The area has seen significant growth in recent decades, attracting families and businesses from the more expensive urban regions of Southern Ontario. 

249 Area Code Time Zone 

The 249 area code operates in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), which is UTC -5 during standard time and UTC -4 during daylight saving time. This is the same time zone as major North American cities like Toronto, Montreal, and New York.