How Much Does Internet Cost on Average?

In the United States, 85% of households have broadband internet and even more than that have a cell phone or computer. 

The internet is everywhere, from entertainment to work, people use it all the time. The question is, how much does internet cost, and what makes it cost what it does? To answer those questions let’s start from the beginning and try to make sense of how internet pricing works. 

To begin with, we should figure out what the average person pays for internet access in their home. 

Average Internet Cost

When we begin to break down how much does the internet cost, we have to first look at how much each household pays. This is not an apples to apples comparison, as we know that not everyone has high speed internet, for instance. The average is between around $50 to $70 per month. 

By Region 

The cost of internet access is not the same everywhere in the United States or the world. There are areas that have access to cheaper internet, just as some areas have access to faster internet. Average internet prices can fluctuate depending on where you live, how much competition there is, and other factors. 

Region can have a big impact on the average cost of buying internet access, but it is not the only factor to consider. There are others that will have an even larger impact on the cost of the internet that you want. 

Types of Internet

There are several kinds of common internet access available in most places. In general, the more speed and bandwidth a service provides, the more expensive it will be. The exception to this is internet service which has broader usability, such as satellite internet. 

Another area where average pricing can vary is in cellular internet. The average cost of cellular internet is going to depend on what carrier you have and what type of plan you choose. These are options that are upfront when you get your service, if you have any questions you can ask your mobile provider. 

Cable Internet

For most people in the country, the easiest to access form of internet service is cable internet. It is available to 90% of the population. Many companies will offer television, phone and cable internet together in bundles, as it uses the same type of connection as a television does. 

Cable internet has good speed and offers more than enough bandwidth for most applications. The average cost of cable is around $50 a month. This cost will depend on what cable provider you have access to, as most regions will only have one or two cable providers in the area. 

DSL Internet

DSL service is one that has high speed and good bandwidth as well. It is offered by a variety of companies such as Earthlink, depending on where you are in the country. The average cost of having DSL is the same as cable, and the fluctuations in cost are often associated with the company you find service through. 

Fiber Internet 

The fastest of the standard options available to consumers, fiber internet is stable and fast. It is also more expensive than either DLS or cable, with average monthly pricing of over $60. Of course, you get what you pay for in this case, as fiber is faster and more stable than cable or DSL. 

Fiber internet is not available everywhere, as you need access to fiber optic cable. This cable runs into the home and provides internet access. In some areas, there are higher connection fees associated with fiber internet as well. 

Satellite Internet

When asking how much is internet access going to cost, the highest average belongs to satellite access. The speed and bandwidth of satellite internet are variable depending on plan and provider. The average satellite customer is going to expect to pay over $80 a month for basic service. 

The benefit of satellite radio is often considered well worth it, as those who need mobile access to the internet or live in remote areas are often left with no choice. Those with the right plan can travel the world in a boat or live full time in an RV and still have access to good internet service. 

Fees, Taxes, And Other Expenses 

When you ask the question, how much does internet cost? The answer varies not just one the cost of service, but on the fees, taxes and other expenses. Fees and taxes vary based on state and local laws and regulations. 

The higher the tax rate in your state and municipality the more you can expect to pay for internet access. If this is your first time getting cable, DSL, or fiber you can also expect to pay more in the form of connection fees and installation cost. 

Many providers also charge for hardware rental or purchase. This is because it takes specialized equipment, like cable modems, to make the internet usable in your home. The service provider carries this equipment and will charge accordingly. 

In some cases, you can purchase the equipment yourself, and save money. For most people that isn’t going to be an attractive option, they will take what the service provider gives them. This is usually easier and the technicians will install your line and ensure it is working for you. 

Provider Variance

Providers will also vary in how much they charge for internet access. There are several companies which offer broadband or high speed internet. If you want to know what you can expect in your area, then check out internet providers near me. 

How Much Does Internet Cost

Armed with knowledge you can now answer the question, how much does internet cost? Find out what companies are near you, and figure out what kind of internet service you want. The choice is yours, so find a company and a plan that works for the needs of your home. 

If this article was helpful or interesting, take a look at our website for more information about internet providers near you.