Best cheap internet providers of 2024
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Most available offer
Prices from
$49.99
per month
Speeds up to
1,000
Mbps
for 12 mos with Auto Pay.
Good value
Prices from
$29.99
per month
Speeds up to
5,000
Mbps
Cheapest internet plan
Why trust our broadband experts
Allconnect’s team of broadband experts regularly reviews the top internet service providers in the U.S., scrutinizing each company under a rigorous scoring system to help our readers make informed internet purchases. We keep our data points accurate and up to date based on thorough research and partnership communications. Our content is not directed by partners. Visit our full methodology page and advertising disclosure to learn more.
Signing up for a cheap internet plan is a good way to keep your home utility expenses low. Cheap internet service isn’t necessarily just about choosing the least expensive home Wi-Fi available — it also means getting the best value for your money.
What is the best cheap internet plan?
- Xfinity Performance Starter: Cheapest internet plan
- WOW! Internet 100: Cheapest cost over two years
- Mediacom Internet 100: Best pricing after the first year
- Frontier Fiber 200: Good value
- Kinetic by Windstream up to 100 Mbps: Best cheap internet with rural availability
- Verizon Fios 300 Mbps: Best price guarantee
- Spectrum Internet: Most available offer
- Cox Internet Go Fast: Cheap whole-home Wi-Fi
Read on to compare the most affordable internet plans, learn about additional costs and hidden fees, and discover other ways to save money on internet.
Who is the best cheap internet provider?
Our top pick for cheap internet is Verizon Fios, at $49.99/mo. for 300 Mbps. Verizon Fios fiber-optic internet is fast enough to support any online activity, and it has symmetrical upload and download speeds for adding content to your social media feeds or sending large files. This unlimited internet plan has no contracts or equipment fees. Verizon Fios stays affordable for the long-term with up to a five-year price guarantee.
Internet service providers (ISPs) often offer cheap Wi-Fi plans at promotional rates that may increase after three, six, 12, or 24 months. Plans might also require autopay and paperless billing to qualify for the discounted rate. Availability of cheap home internet plans depends on your location, with some areas offering multiple options while others may have only one.
The following tables list the cheapest internet plans from least to most expensive. Be sure to read the fine print to know when to expect an increase in your low-cost internet home service.
Compare the cheapest internet plans
| Provider | Starting price* | Standard price* | Speed (up to) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | $9.95/mo. | $65/mo. | 50 Mbps | |
 | $19.99/mo. | $39.99/mo. | 100 Mbps | Call to order: (877) 818-8727 |
 | $34.99/mo. | $39.99/mo. | 100 Mbps | Call to order: (877) 818-8727 |
| $39.99/mo. | $54.99/mo. | 200 Mbps | |
 | $39.99/mo. | $64.99/mo. | 500 Mbps | Call to order: (877) 818-8727 |
 | $49.99/mo. | $49.99/mo. | 300 Mbps | Call to order: (877) 818-8727 |
| $49.99/mo. | $74.99/mo. | 300 Mbps | |
 | $50/mo. | $50/mo. | 100 Mbps |
Cheap internet plans reviewed
Here, we’ve broken down the cheapest internet service plans by speed, additional charges for equipment, activation or installation and early termination fees (ETFs), as well as our take on the pros and cons of each plan.
Xfinity Performance Starter – Cheapest internet plan
The Xfinity Connect More plan is a great value if you only need internet service for 12 months or less. This plan is among the cheapest internet plans when broken down by cost per Mbps. However, the price after the promotional period is over three times as much. For this reason, this cheap internet plan is a good fit if you are in a short-term rental or plan on moving within a year.
- Speed: Download up to 50 Mbps; upload up to 10 Mbps.
- Data cap: 1.2 TB.
- Install and activation fee: Free self-installation.
- Equipment fee: Gateway $15/mo. or provide your own.
- Contracts and ETF: None.
Read the full Xfinity review.
WOW! Internet 100 – Cheapest cost over length of contract
WOW! has one of the cheapest no-contract internet plans, starting at just $19.99/mo. Providing your own modem and router with this plan will save you an additional $168 per year. A couple of cons to this cheap home internet is that the price doubles after the 12-month promotional period, and there is a data cap, albeit a very high one of 1.5 TB.
- Speed: Download up to 100 Mbps; upload up to 10 Mbps.
- Data cap: 1.5 TB.
- Install and activation fee: Free self-installation.
- Equipment fee: $14/mo. or provide your own.
- Contracts and ETF: None.
Read the full WOW! review.
Mediacom Internet 100 – Best pricing after the first year
This plan from Mediacom only increases $5 a month after the 12-month promotional price. However, there are some restrictions to this cheap internet service, including a data cap and additional fees. Because of the limitations of this plan, it is best for medium to light internet use with one to two devices. Heavy streaming or gaming could put you at risk of incurring additional charges if you exceed the data cap.
- Speed: Download up to 100 Mbps; upload up to 10 Mbps.
- Data cap: 300 GB.
- Install and activation fee: $109 install; $10 activation.
- Equipment fee: Modem $13/mo. or provide your own; free router.
- Contracts and ETF: 12-month contract; $120 prorated ETF.
Read the full Mediacom review.
Frontier Fiber 200 – Good value cheap internet
Frontier Fiber, available in 17 states, has prices about 20% cheaper than other internet companies. The post-promotional rate of $54.99/mo. is affordable too, so you won’t have to worry about being over your budget once the promotion ends. Frontier has no hidden fees and no contracts. This plan is great for individuals who want to get the most for their money in terms of internet speed while still getting a cheap monthly internet bill.
- Speed: Download up to 200 Mbps; upload up to 200 Mbps.
- Data cap: Unlimited.
- Install and activation fee: Free self-installation.
- Equipment fee: $0.
- Contracts and ETF: None.
Read the full Frontier review.
Kinetic by Windstream up to 100 Mbps – Best cheap internet with rural availability
Kinetic by Windstream offers a great deal and is commonly found in rural areas. If you are in a Windstream service area, check if your service is fiber or DSL internet. Windstream offers both types of internet connections, and while the starting price for the 100 Mbps DSL plan is the same, the upload speeds vary.
- Speed: Download up to 100 Mbps.
- Data cap: Unlimited.
- Install and activation fee: $50.
- Equipment fee: $9.99/mo. or provide your own compatible gateway.
- Contracts and ETF: None.
Read the full Windstream review.
Verizon Fios 300 Mbps – Best price guarantee
Verizon Fios plans have some of the longest price guarantees of any internet provider. Verizon also rarely raises its rates, even outside of promotional offers. Fiber services like Verizon Fios can handle any internet activity and 20 or more connected devices. For a super-connected wireless home, this is a good plan to have. You can also bundle your Verizon Fios internet with Verizon Wireless to save an additional $20/mo. on internet.
- Speed: Download up to 300 Mbps; upload up to 300 Mbps
- Data cap: Unlimited.
- Install and activation fee: Free self-installation.
- Equipment fee: $0
- Contracts and ETF: None.
Read the full Verizon Fios review.
Spectrum InternetⓇ – Most available offer
Spectrum 300 Mbps internet is available in 41 states and nearly 30% of the country. This speed is great for streaming, gaming, web browsing and more on around 10–15 devices simultaneously. Spectrum plans offer a free modem, but the wireless router costs $5/mo. One drawback to this plan is its $25/mo. price increase after the first year.
- Speed: Download up to 100 Mbps; upload up to 10 Mbps.
- Data cap: Unlimited.
- Install and activation fee: Free self-installation.
- Equipment fee: $5/mo. for a Wi-Fi router or provide your own.
- Contracts and ETF: None.
Read the full Spectrum review.
Cox Internet Go Fast – Cheap whole-home Wi-Fi
For the price, Cox is one of the slower internet plans on our list. Still, 100 Mbps is a fairly good speed and should be able to handle any online activity. Households doing several high-speed activities at once could experience some lag if connecting too many devices. Cox plans technically have a data cap, but most homes are unlikely to go over, and you can upgrade to unlimited data for an extra $10/mo. if needed.
- Speed: Download up to 100 Mbps; upload up to 5 Mbps.
- Data cap: 1.25 TB.
- Install and activation fee: Free self-installation.
- Equipment fee: $0.
- Contracts and ETF: None.
Read the full Cox review.
Compare the next cheapest internet plans
The following cable, fiber and 5G internet deals have starting prices that are a little higher than the cheapest internet plans but are still considered affordable. According to a Consumer Reports 2022 analysis of over 18,000 bills, about half paid between $60 to $90 monthly for internet service. The plans listed here range between $55 and $70 per month.
Cheap internet plans with AT&T, Verizon Fios and Cox don’t go up in price, making these plans a better option if you want to avoid price increases. Overall, it’s usually worth it to choose a slightly more expensive plan to get better service and better value for your money in the long run.
| Provider | Starting price* | Standard price* | Speed (up to) | Equipment fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Fiber | $55/mo. | $55/mo. | 300 Mbps | None |
| T-Mobile 5G | $60/mo. | $60/mo. | 245 Mbps | None |
| Verizon 5G Home | $60/mo. | $60/mo. | 300 Mbps | None |
| Google Fiber | $70/mo. | $70/mo. | 1 GB | None |
| Verizon Fios 500 Mbps | $69.99/mo. | $69.99/mo. | 500 Mbps | None |
Methodology
We rated the largest internet providers in the U.S. for 2024. Each provider was rated on a scale of 1 to 5 based on over a dozen factors, including speed, cost, availability, fees, customer satisfaction, connection type and more. We also used data from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to compare the average speed offered by internet companies in the U.S. to set a baseline for what is considered a good internet speed. Additionally, we analyzed data from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) to understand how each internet service provider (ISP) fares in customer service and perceived value.
How we reviewed cheap internet providers
To find the best cheap internet plans, we first had to determine the typical monthly internet plan cost in the U.S. According to a 2022 Consumer Reports study, the median internet price was $74.99/mo., with more than half of the over 18,000 households paying between $60–$90/mo.
Based on that data, we classified cheap internet as any plan that started out below $40/mo. and included additional cheap options for plans under $60/mo. We then compared the lowest starting rates among the primary fiber, cable and 5G internet providers. Although some of the highlighted plans are from regional service providers, all the companies mentioned have a large regional presence with at least a million customers to ensure that the cheap internet plans have a greater likelihood of availability in your area.
How to choose the best cheap Wi-Fi
While the fastest high-speed internet may not be the cheapest, you can find a plan that balances a reasonable price with a good internet speed to suit your needs. Start by identifying your must-have features: Are you working from home and require unlimited data? Is the lowest price for functional wireless internet your priority? Do you need speeds of 1 GB or more?
Here are some factors to consider when selecting the best cheap internet near you:
- Monthly cost and fees: A plan with a slightly higher monthly cost may be cheaper overall when compared to one with additional fees. The table on this page shows prices broken down by cost per Mbps to help you figure out the true value.
- Speed and number of devices: To get cheap Wi-Fi plans, you may need to sacrifice some speed, but be realistic about your household’s speed requirements. If multiple people will be streaming and gaming simultaneously, a cheap plan that can’t support your needs could cause long-term issues like slow internet or unreliable Wi-Fi.
- Connection type: A cheap fiber optic or cable internet plan is best for dependable connections needed for working from home, online classes, gaming or activities requiring a VPN. Fixed wireless and DSL both provide sufficient speeds for basic activities like web browsing and light streaming, while rural areas often rely on satellite internet starting at $49.99/mo.
- Optimize your devices: Make the most of your cheap internet plan by managing your home Wi-Fi network with your ISP’s app. Prioritize essential devices like work or school laptops and set time-of-use limits on other gadgets, such as kids’ cell phones.
- Availability: Cheap high-speed internet depends on which providers are available near you. Enter your address to find out what cheap plans you can get at your home.
Other ways to save money on internet plans
Here are a few other tips and tricks for reducing the cost of your internet service:
- Install the modem and router yourself. Self-installation can eliminate a costly professional installation fee. Setting up your internet is typically pretty straightforward, so you don’t need to be overly tech-savvy.
- Pick up the equipment locally. If the ISP mails the modem to your home, find out if they charge for shipping. You may be able to pick up equipment from a retail location and avoid the shipping costs.
- Purchase your own equipment. Providers like Windstream and Mediacom allow you to select your router and modem to avoid the monthly equipment rental charge. Other providers, such as CenturyLink, offer the option to purchase their equipment upfront, which can save you money over the long run. For example, CenturyLink’s monthly modem rental is $15, but by paying a one-time equipment cost of $129, you will break even in less than nine months.
- Bundle your services. Customers can often bundle TV and internet, or internet and wireless services, together for additional savings. For example, you can bundle T-Mobile phone and internet for $20/mo. savings.
- Switch internet providers. If you’ve spoken to your ISP about reducing your costs and they won’t budge, it might be time to switch providers. Many ISPs will offer their best internet deals to new customers, and some will even pay your ETF to get out of a contract with another provider. You can also consider prepaid internet for a low-cost option.
Free and cheap internet for seniors, students and low-income households
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal program that offered cheap and free Wi-Fi plans for qualifying seniors, students or low-income households over the past few years. The program is no longer accepting new applications and is on indefinite pause unless Congress approves additional funding. See our other recommendations for senior internet options.
Several of the best internet providers still offer reduced-price or free internet for individuals and households that qualify for programs like Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutritional Access Program (SNAP) or the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
You can also qualify for internet assistance through EveryoneOn, a nationwide nonprofit organization helping to close the digital divide. Enter your ZIP code at EveryoneOn to find internet offers, device discounts and free digital literacy training programs near you. If you don’t qualify for discounts with your local internet provider or EveryoneOn, remember that free Wi-Fi is available at many retail stores and restaurants.
Final thoughts on cheap internet
Cheap internet plans are available across the country, but cost differences with installation, equipment and other fees can vary among providers. However, if you are searching for internet for less than $60/mo., there is typically at least one option in your area. Providing your equipment and installing it yourself can save you additional costs. Remember, if you meet the requirements for low-income, senior or student status, you could qualify for cheaper internet long-term.
Cheap internet FAQs
Who offers the cheapest internet plan?
Xfinity offers the cheapest internet plan for $9.95/mo. in select areas for qualifying households.
Do any providers offer free internet services?
Free Wi-Fi hotspots are available in many public locations throughout most cities, including libraries, restaurants and more. Providers like AT&T, Cox and Mediacom offer reduced-price internet for qualifying households, ranging from $5 to $19.99/mo.
What’s the average price of internet per month?
The average cost of internet varies by location but generally ranges from $40 to $80 per month. Multi-gig speeds or certain types of internet connections tend to be more expensive.
This content is produced through an alliance between USA TODAY and Allconnect.com. Under the alliance, Allconnect publishes articles about broadband-related topics upholding strict editorial integrity standards in line with USA TODAY’s Principles of Ethical Conduct. The opinions, analyses, reviews and recommendations expressed are those of the Allconnect editorial staff alone. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Read more about our Allconnect Advertising Disclosure.
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