The area code 773 is located in Chicago, Illinois.
Area code 773 serves the City of Chicago, Illinois, covering most neighborhoods on the North, West, and South Sides. It was established in 1996 when Chicago’s original 312 area code was split, leaving 312 for the downtown core and nearby business districts. Today, 773 is the everyday Chicago area code for homes, small businesses, and community institutions across the city. The region follows Central Time (CT) and includes many of Chicago’s most recognizable neighborhoods.
You’ll find 773 tied to iconic places and local life across the city, while downtown and the Loop largely use 312. Notable spots in the 773 calling area include:
In 2009, the 872 overlay was added to cover the same geographic area as both 773 and 312, which means new numbers in the city may use 872 even if the address hasn’t changed. Because of this overlay, 10-digit dialing is required for local calls within Chicago. Number portability also means many residents and businesses keep their 773 phone numbers when moving between neighborhoods. If you’re searching for a Chicago phone number, seeing 773 usually signals a connection to the city beyond the downtown core.
“Overlay: 872 added in 2009; 773 created from 312 in 1996.” — North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA)
For quick context, area code 773 is a key part of Chicago’s phone system, linking the city’s diverse communities, historic districts, and everyday neighborhoods outside the central business district. It’s the code you’ll encounter across local shops, schools, and community organizations throughout Chicago’s North, West, and South Sides.