Blacksburg, Virginia

Where Is Area Code 540?

Area code 540 is in western and central Virginia, including Blacksburg and many communities in the Shenandoah Valley, the Roanoke Valley, and nearby mountain regions. It serves a large inland section of the state rather than one single city.

Major cities and communities in area code 540 include Roanoke, Blacksburg, Harrisonburg, Fredericksburg, Winchester, Salem, Radford, and Staunton. The area code also covers parts of many counties across western Virginia and the northern Piedmont.

Area code 540 includes notable places such as the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park region. It also serves communities near the New River Valley, which includes Blacksburg and Radford.

History of Area Code 540

Area code 540 began on July 15, 1995. The North American Numbering Plan created it in a split from area code 703 as telephone demand grew in Virginia outside Northern Virginia.

Area code 540 later received an overlay. Area code 826 was approved as an overlay for the same geographic region, and 10-digit dialing became necessary in the 540 service area before the overlay took effect.

Key Facts About Area Code 540

• Area code 540 is in Virginia, and Blacksburg is one of the well-known communities within it.
• Area code 540 serves western and central parts of Virginia, including cities such as Roanoke, Harrisonburg, Winchester, Fredericksburg, Salem, Staunton, and Radford.
• Area code 540 was created on July 15, 1995, in a split from area code 703.
• Area code 540 is a geographic area code, not a toll-free area code.
• Area code 540 is in the Eastern Time Zone.
• Area code 540 covers Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, one of the state's major public universities.
• Area code 540 also serves James Madison University in Harrisonburg and the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg.
• Area code 826 overlays the same region as area code 540, so both area codes now serve the same territory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What state is area code 540 in?

Area code 540 is in Virginia.

What major cities use area code 540?

Major cities and communities in area code 540 include Roanoke, Blacksburg, Harrisonburg, Fredericksburg, Winchester, Salem, Radford, and Staunton.

Is area code 540 a toll-free number?

No. Area code 540 is a geographic area code.