The area code 838 is located in Albany, New York.
Area code 838 serves Albany, New York, and the broader Capital Region in northeastern New York State. It overlays the long-standing 518 area code, which means both codes cover the same territory from the Hudson and Mohawk Valleys up toward the Adirondacks and the North Country. This region includes the state government hub in Albany, major universities, and key business centers, making 838 a significant code for New York’s capital area.
You’ll find 838 numbers across the Capital District and beyond, reaching historic cities and popular destinations. Major communities and landmarks include:
The 838 area code launched in 2017 as an overlay to 518 to expand the supply of phone numbers without changing existing 518 numbers. With the overlay, local calling in the region uses 10-digit dialing for all calls. New lines and services may receive 838, while older numbers can remain 518, and both work side by side across the same map. This setup keeps local identities intact while supporting growth in mobile phones, VoIP, and business lines.
“10-digit dialing is required for all local calls in the 518/838 region.” — North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA)
Helpful to know: area code 838 follows the Eastern Time Zone (ET) and observes Daylight Saving Time, aligning with New York State. Many callers see 838 on caller ID for numbers tied to Albany and nearby cities, from the Capital Region to communities near the Adirondacks. Whether it’s a government office, a university, or a local business, 838 stands alongside 518 as the modern identifier for phone numbers in and around Albany, NY.