Area code 971 is an overlay for area code 503 in northwestern Oregon, including Portland, Salem, Beaverton, and Hillsboro. It was introduced in 2000 to handle the growing need for telephone numbers in this fast-developing region. Initially limited to certain services, 971 became a full overlay in 2008, requiring ten-digit dialing throughout the area. The region is a hub for tech, commerce, and culture, especially within the Portland metro. 971 is commonly used for mobile phones and new connections, while 503 retains legacy status. Together, they support one of the Pacific Northwest’s most dynamic areas.