Yes, your VoIP provider may permit you to select an area code different from the area in which you live. This means, if you live in Austin and get a New York number, you will NOT incur long-distance charges while calling a New York number, regardless of where you call from. It does means that your "local" calls, in Austin, will be charged long distance and that your friends in Austin will incur long-distance charges when they call your New York Number.
Additionally, most providers offer virtual numbers (sometimes known as "virtual extensions"). With this feature, you can obtain a number from a different area code in addition to your current area code. If you have relatives living in another area code, they can dial the local number to reach you, which saves them the cost of long-distance charges.