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The Best Rural Internet Options in 2023

Rural internet customers have more choices now than in previous years with even more competition among providers along the way. That’s good news for customers.

Ballpark Speeds by Connection Type

DSL speeds are slower than other types when they’re in the traditional 1-6 Mbps range. That’s too slow for HD streaming but lets you do basic online activities like checking email and reading social media. However, some providers are able to deliver 25 Mbps with DSL and technically it can hit 100 Mbps but normally maxes out at about 25 Mbps. When you can get up to 25 Mbps via DSL it becomes a better experience for the user.

Satellite internet speeds depend on the plan and your location, but can start at 5-12 Mbps and reach 100 Mbps and higher. The average satellite download speed is 21 Mbps. However, Starlink, which uses a newer technology, has less latency and can deliver speeds of 25-220 Mbps.

Traditional cable internet speeds range from 10-100 Mbps. When the company has a hybrid coax-fiber solution it can significantly bump those up to 1 Gig (1000 Mbps) of speed.

Fixed wireless speeds can range from 3-1000 Mbps depending on how good the line-of-sight connectivity is and other factors. It requires a line of sight to a tower.

5G Home Internet speeds range from 100-300 Mbps depending on how good the cell service is where you live. It has the potential to exceed typical fiber speeds in the future but isn’t there yet.

Mobile broadband depend on the generation of network being used (4G is 4th generation, 5G is 5th Generation), the connection and the signal. Speeds can range from 15 Mbps for 4G to 1 Gig in 5G.

Fiber internet speeds can exceed 1 Gig where available, which tends to be in metro areas.

Pricing Considerations

Pricing has dependencies on infrastructure, competition, incentives and promotions, and more. The average monthly internet bill in the U.S. is about $75. Generally, the more speed and data you get the higher your bill will be. Introductory pricing may last 3 months, or 12 months, and then rates can shoot up dramatically. Some companies can bundle cable and phone for better deals on each while others are strictly internet.

In round numbers, excluding installation, equipment leasing and other fees, DSL service will run you about $30 - $70 per month. Broadband cable without TV or phone can run $60-$90 per month. Satellite internet pricing still depends on the carrier with Starlink’s flat fee of $120 for residential, any speed, while Viasat and HughesNet have a range of plans starting at about $50 and going up to $200 in the case of Viasat for the most data and highest speeds. Fiber internet pricing is about $70 where available. T-Mobile 5G Home Internet is $50 and won’t increase. Some companies require contracts while others don’t.

Here are rural internet providers for you to consider. Contracts may be required for some plans: