North Carolina · Eastern Time
Durham, NC Area Codes
Durham is served by 2 area codes (919, 984). 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 Durham
Durham sits in North Carolina, 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: 919, 984.
The original code is 919 (in service since 1954). 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 |
|---|---|---|
| 919 | The Research Triangle region of north-central North Carolina, including Raleigh and Durham | January 1, 1954 |
| 984 | The Research Triangle region of north-central North Carolina, including Raleigh and Durham | April 30, 2012 |
Nearby cities sharing these area codes
- Raleigh
- Cary
- Chapel Hill
- Apex
- Wake Forest
- Holly Springs
- Fuquay-Varina
- Garner
- Morrisville
- Goldsboro
- Sanford
- Clayton
- Smithfield
- Hillsborough
How to pick an area code for a new number
When you activate a new line in Durham, 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 919), ask the carrier whether any blocks remain, or request a number transfer. All codes here dial identically and cost the same.
Dialing in Durham
Because Durham 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 North Carolina, visit the North Carolina area codes page.
Quick answers
Durham area code FAQ
What area codes does Durham use?
Durham, NC is served by 2 area codes: 919, 984.
Which is the original Durham area code?
919 is the original code for Durham, in service since 1954; the others were added later for more numbers.
What time zone is Durham in?
Durham is in the Eastern Time zone.
Do I need to dial the area code in Durham?
Yes. With multiple overlapping codes, 10-digit dialing is required for every call in this area.