North Carolina · Eastern Time
Winston-Salem, NC Area Codes
Winston-Salem is served by 2 area codes (336, 743). 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 Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem 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: 336, 743.
The original code is 336 (in service since 1997). 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 |
|---|---|---|
| 336 | The Piedmont Triad of north-central North Carolina, including Greensboro and Winston-Salem | December 15, 1997 |
| 743 | The Piedmont Triad of north-central North Carolina, including Greensboro and Winston-Salem | May 23, 2016 |
Nearby cities sharing these area codes
- Greensboro
- High Point
- Burlington
- Asheboro
- Kernersville
- Thomasville
- Lexington
- Reidsville
- Clemmons
- Eden
- Mount Airy
- Mocksville
- Elkin
How to pick an area code for a new number
When you activate a new line in Winston-Salem, 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 336), ask the carrier whether any blocks remain, or request a number transfer. All codes here dial identically and cost the same.
Dialing in Winston-Salem
Because Winston-Salem 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
Winston-Salem area code FAQ
What area codes does Winston-Salem use?
Winston-Salem, NC is served by 2 area codes: 336, 743.
Which is the original Winston-Salem area code?
336 is the original code for Winston-Salem, in service since 1997; the others were added later for more numbers.
What time zone is Winston-Salem in?
Winston-Salem is in the Eastern Time zone.
Do I need to dial the area code in Winston-Salem?
Yes. With multiple overlapping codes, 10-digit dialing is required for every call in this area.