Get an Area Code 231 business phone and answering service

Geographic Overview of Area Code 231

Area Code 231 is located in the northwestern portion of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. This area code covers a diverse range of cities and counties, making it a significant region for business operations. Major cities within this area code include Muskegon, Traverse City, Ludington, Petoskey, and Cadillac. The area spans across 22 counties, including Muskegon County, Grand Traverse County, Emmet County, Mecosta County, and Antrim County. This extensive coverage provides businesses with a broad customer base and numerous opportunities for growth.

Key cities and counties in Area Code 231:

• Muskegon
• Traverse City
• Ludington
• Petoskey
• Cadillac
• Muskegon County
• Grand Traverse County
• Emmet County
• Mecosta County
• Antrim County

Population and Demographics

The population served by Area Code 231 is approximately 1,091,334 individuals (source). Muskegon, the largest city within this area code, has a population of 38,318 (source). This diverse population provides a substantial market for various business services, from retail to professional services. The demographic diversity also means that businesses can cater to a wide range of customer needs and preferences.

Key population statistics:

• Total population: 1,091,334
• Largest city: Muskegon (38,318 residents)

Time Zone

Area Code 231 falls within the Eastern Time Zone (GMT -05:00) (source). This time zone alignment is beneficial for businesses as it synchronizes with major economic hubs on the East Coast, facilitating smoother communication and operations. Being in the Eastern Time Zone also means that businesses can easily coordinate with partners and clients in other major cities like New York and Washington, D.C.

Small Business Activity

In 2023, there were 148,508 new businesses attempting to start up in the area covered by Area Code 231 (source). Of these, 7,445 were expected to start operating within a year, and 5.0% were projected to become employer businesses. This vibrant entrepreneurial activity indicates a healthy business environment and a supportive community for startups and small businesses.

Key business statistics:

• New businesses in 2023: 148,508
• Expected to start operating within a year: 7,445
• Projected to become employer businesses: 5.0%

Neighboring Area Codes

Area Code 231 is bordered by several other area codes, which can be relevant for businesses looking to expand their reach. These neighboring area codes include:

• 249/705 (Sudbury, ON)
• 616 (Grand Rapids, MI)
• 906 (Marquette, MI)
• 989 (Saginaw, MI)

Understanding these neighboring area codes can help businesses plan their marketing and expansion strategies more effectively.

Unique Business Story in Area Code 231

Area Code 231 is not just a hub for new businesses but also a region with a rich history of entrepreneurship. One notable story is that of Traverse City, known for its cherry production. Local businesses have capitalized on this unique agricultural product, creating a thriving industry around cherry-based products. From cherry wines to cherry festivals, the entrepreneurial spirit in Traverse City showcases how local resources can be leveraged to create successful business ventures. This story serves as an inspiration for new businesses looking to tap into local strengths and opportunities.

Benefits of Using Goodcall in Area Code 231

For businesses operating in Area Code 231, Goodcall offers a range of benefits that can significantly enhance their operations and customer service. Goodcall's AI phone assistant is designed to replace traditional IVR technologies, providing a more efficient and user-friendly experience. Here are some key benefits:

• Always Available: Goodcall's AI technology ensures that your business phone is never busy and always available to take calls.
• Cost-Effective: As an affordable solution, Goodcall helps small businesses save on the costs associated with traditional call centers or voicemail systems.
• Interactive Capabilities: Unlike simple voicemail, Goodcall's AI can interact with callers, providing them with immediate assistance and information.
• Easy to Use: The system is user-friendly, making it easy for businesses to set up and manage their phone services.
• Google Voice Alternative: Goodcall can be used as a more efficient alternative to Google Voice, offering superior performance and features.

By integrating Goodcall into their operations, businesses in Area Code 231 can improve their customer service, streamline their communication processes, and ultimately enhance their overall efficiency. This makes Goodcall an invaluable tool for any business looking to thrive in this dynamic region.