Area code · New York
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The 518 area code covers Albany and the surrounding Capital Region of New York, including Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga Springs. It's the number locals expect to see on their phone if you live or do business in that part of the state. In the Ghost app, you can pick a 518 number for yourself and start using it in minutes.
See why thousands trust Ghost for their virtual phone number
Why choose a 518 virtual phone number?
Look local to Capital Region buyers
If you're selling something online in Albany, Troy, or Schenectady, a 518 number tells buyers you're nearby before they even ask. That builds a little trust before the first reply.
Dating with a number that fits the area
If you're meeting people around Albany or Saratoga Springs, a 518 number matches the area code they already recognize. No explaining why your number is from somewhere else.
Job hunting in Albany or Schenectady
Recruiters and hiring managers in the Capital Region often notice area codes. A 518 number on your resume or application signals you're already local, or planning to be.
Moving to the region
If you're relocating to Albany, Troy, Cohoes, or Niskayuna, you can set up a 518 number ahead of the move and give it out before you arrive.
Keep the number after you leave
If you move away from the Capital Region but still have friends, family, or business ties in Albany or Plattsburgh, you can keep your 518 number instead of switching to wherever you land.
Separate work and personal calls
If you already have a personal number, a second 518 number lets you keep business calls with Albany or Saratoga Springs contacts separate from your everyday line.
How to get a 518 phone number
- 1
Pick your area code
Choose any 518 area code, or any other US or Canadian code.
- 2
Choose your number
See available numbers instantly and pick the one you like.
- 3
Start calling and texting
Your number works over WiFi or data for everyday calling and texting. No SIM card, no new phone plan.
- 4
Stay in control
Mute it, set it to Do Not Disturb, or delete and replace it whenever you want.
Ghost can't be used for 911 or emergency calls, so keep your regular line for those.
Get My 518 NumberAbout the 518 area code
Area code
518
State
New York
Cities served
12+
The 518 area code serves Albany and the Capital Region of New York, including Schenectady, Troy, Saratoga Springs, Rotterdam, Niskayuna, Cohoes, and Plattsburgh to the north.
This code stands alone in its region. There's no overlay to worry about, so any 518 number reads as this same Capital Region area, with no second code to coordinate.
The region runs on the America/New_York timezone, so calls and texts to Albany, Troy, or Saratoga Springs line up with standard Eastern Time hours.
Coverage from public numbering and census data. Sources
Local economy
Why do business in Albany?
Albany anchors New York's Capital Region as the state capital, with Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga Springs rounding out a metro built on government, education, and healthcare.
Government and public administration
As the seat of New York State government, Albany hosts a steady base of state agencies and public sector jobs that shape the local economy.
Healthcare
Albany and the surrounding cities support a network of hospitals and healthcare employers that serve the wider Capital Region.
Higher education and research
Colleges and universities in Albany, Troy, and Schenectady bring students, researchers, and staff into the region year-round.
518 numbers by city
Frequently asked questions
How fast can I get a 518 phone number?
You can pick a 518 number in the Ghost app and start calling and texting within minutes. There's no waiting on paperwork or a store visit.
Which cities use the 518 area code?
The 518 area code covers Albany, Schenectady, Troy, Saratoga Springs, Rotterdam, Niskayuna, Plattsburgh, and Cohoes.
Can I keep my 518 number if I move away from Albany?
Yes. Your Ghost number stays with you no matter where you move. If you leave the Capital Region but want to keep looking local to Albany contacts, the number stays the same.
How much does Ghost cost?
Ghost Premium is $60 every 2 months and includes 5 phone numbers, unlimited calling and texting in the US and Canada, your choice of area code, and the ability to delete and replace your number. Cancel anytime. No contracts.
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