Chicago Area Codes

Chicago is served by 3 area codes: 312, 773, 872. Below is the full list, how to call a Chicago number from abroad, and why there are several codes.

Chicago area codes

Area codeExample local number
+1 312(312) XXX-XXXX
+1 773(773) XXX-XXXX
+1 872(872) XXX-XXXX

How to call Chicago from abroad

Dial your country's international exit code, then 1 (the US country code), then the Chicago area code that matches the number (one of those listed above), then the 7-digit local number. From Phonecall in your browser, enter +1, the area code and the number, and the exit code is added for you. Every Chicago number uses 10-digit dialing.

Why Chicago has multiple area codes

As the metro grew and numbers ran short, new codes were added both as overlays (a new code layered over the same zone) and through geographic splits (a separate code for part of the metro). The code at the start of a number no longer reliably pinpoints a neighborhood, and callers always dial all 10 digits.

For the full +1 country code and dialing format, see the United States country code page.

Calling format

  • Country code+1
  • Mobile format pattern+1 XXX XXX XXXX
  • Landline format pattern+1 XX XXXX XXXX
  • NotesOmit leading 0 when using country code; include area code where applicable.

Valid number patterns

Valid mobile number pattern

+1 XXX XXX XXXX

e.g. +1 201 555 0123

Valid landline number pattern

+1 XX XXXX XXXX

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Dialing information

  • Country code+1
  • LanguagesEnglish, Spanish
  • Time zonesAmerica/New_York
  • Phonecall rate$0.03/min

Landline$0.03/minMobile$0.03/min

Call Chicago from your browser at low rates. No app or SIM required.

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Dialing specifics for Chicago

  • Chicago spans 6 time zones, so confirm the recipient's local time before you call.
  • Chicago numbers have no national trunk prefix, so dial every digit after +1.
  • Emergency services: 911.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about calling Chicago with the +1 country code.

What are the area codes for Chicago?
Chicago uses 3 area codes: 312, 773, 872. A local Chicago number is written as (312) XXX-XXXX, and callers dial all 10 digits.
How do I call Chicago from abroad?
Dial your country's exit code, then 1 (the US country code), then whichever of the Chicago area codes (312, 773, 872) matches the number you are calling, then the 7-digit local number. From a browser with Phonecall, just enter +1, the area code and the number.
Why does Chicago have multiple area codes?
As the metro grew and numbers ran short, new codes were added both as overlays (a new code layered over the same zone) and through geographic splits (a separate code for part of the metro). Either way, the code at the start of a number no longer reliably signals one neighborhood, and callers dial all 10 digits.
How much does it cost to call Chicago?
Calling a US number with Phonecall starts from $0.03/min for landlines and $0.03/min for mobiles. The rate is shown before you dial, with no subscription.

Call planning

Check local time in Chicago and your location so you call at a good time.

Time zones in Chicago

America/New_York

Best times to call are typically 9 AM – 5 PM local time in Chicago. Avoid calling during early morning (before 8 AM) or late evening (after 9 PM) local time.