Virginia · Eastern Time
Chesapeake, VA Area Codes
Chesapeake is served by 2 area codes (757, 948). Here's which is original, which are overlays, and how to pick one for a new local number.
Last updated October 3, 2026 · Source: NANPA
Area codes serving Chesapeake
Chesapeake sits in Virginia, part of the South region and the Eastern Time zone. Its numbers are spread across an overlay of 2 codes that all cover the same ground: 757, 948.
The original code is 757 (in service since 1996). As the area ran low on numbers, regulators added overlay codes on top instead of splitting the city, so longtime residents kept their numbers while new lines received a newer code.
| Code | Area served | In service |
|---|---|---|
| 757 | Hampton Roads and Virginia's Eastern Shore, including Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Newport News | July 1, 1996 |
| 948 | Hampton Roads and Virginia's Eastern Shore, including Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Newport News | May 9, 2022 |
Nearby cities sharing these area codes
- Virginia Beach
- Norfolk
- Newport News
- Hampton
- Portsmouth
- Suffolk
- Williamsburg
- Poquoson
- Smithfield
- Franklin
- Yorktown
- Chincoteague
How to pick an area code for a new number
When you activate a new line in Chesapeake, the carrier assigns whichever code has numbers available — you usually can't choose. If a specific code matters to you (for example the prestige of 757), ask the carrier whether any blocks remain, or request a number transfer. All codes here dial identically and cost the same.
Dialing in Chesapeake
Because Chesapeake is an overlay area, 10-digit dialing is mandatory: always dial the area code plus the seven-digit number, even for a neighbor. From outside the US, dial +1, then the area code and number. See 10-digit dialing and overlay area codes for the background. For every code in Virginia, visit the Virginia area codes page.
Quick answers
Chesapeake area code FAQ
What area codes does Chesapeake use?
Chesapeake, VA is served by 2 area codes: 757, 948.
Which is the original Chesapeake area code?
757 is the original code for Chesapeake, in service since 1996; the others were added later for more numbers.
What time zone is Chesapeake in?
Chesapeake is in the Eastern Time zone.
Do I need to dial the area code in Chesapeake?
Yes. With multiple overlapping codes, 10-digit dialing is required for every call in this area.