Although the old dial-up connection may seem outdated to most people, it is still a reality for many Americans who live in rural areas.
There are some positive signs about broadband connectivity for rural residents. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), in its 2020 Broadband Report, states that the digital divide in broadband service continues to close. In fact, Americans who live in rural areas have seen their access to broadband services increase by 85% since 2017.
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However, it is still difficult to find an internet service provider in some country areas. Census data indicates that 75% of urban households subscribe to an Internet service, but only 65% of rural households subscribe.
Are you a rural person and would like to know what options are now available?
Top Rural Internet Providers
The Internet is rapidly expanding and improving in rural areas. This is good news for those who live in rural areas.
There are many types of Internet available for rural areas
Rural America is making progress and improving internet access conditions. While dial-up is a viable option for basic internet access, it’s not the only choice. Let’s look at the other options for internet access in rural areas.
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL).
- A DSL connection sends data over your existing phone line. However, it can be up to 10x faster than dial-up. It allows you to use your phone while connected to the Internet. However, connection speeds may be slow or spotty.
Satellite
- Satellite internet can be found in many areas, even rural ones, but the weather could affect your connection.
- Providers of wireless internet service
- Wireless internet service providers are mobile broadband services that transmit internet signals to your home. However, it requires equipment installation and a clear line to the tower. Stormy weather can disrupt a connection.
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Cellular/4G
- Although 4G cell networks are available in rural areas, it is best to use smartphones for all your internet needs. The cost per gigabyte of data can be high, and coverage can be limited.
Fibre
- Rural areas are more expensive for fibre optic internet, and the Internet can be slow in these areas. Fibre optic internet is available in some rural areas of the United States, you can simply select spectrum basic cable package and enjoy the fibre internet service.
Rural Internet Buying Guide
The best type of Internet for you depends on many factors, including availability, speed, pricing, and other considerations. These sections will help you choose the best plan for you.
What to Expect in Rural Areas
Internet Access in Rural Areas
Access to internet service is not available in rural areas. You will normally have access to DSL, satellite or fixed wireless options. Below is the list of all types available nationwide:
- DSL: Up To 80% of the population
- Satellite internet: up to 100% of the population
- Fixed wireless: Providers such as Verizon offers 99% nationwide coverage
Internet Speeds in Rural Areas
As we have already mentioned, the location you live in will determine which internet providers are available. This determines what internet services you will have access to. Below are the download speeds for each type.
- DSL: 1-200 Mbit/s
- Fixed Wireless: 1-1,000 Mbit/s
- Satellite: 12-100 Mb/s
Price Ranges in Rural Areas
When choosing the right internet type, speed is not the only factor to consider. Here’s how much each type of Internet could cost you.
- DSL: $-$
- Fixed Wireless: $ – $
- Satellite: $-$
Compare Rural Internet Service Providers Prices & Plans
Access to the rural Internet will increase as more people live in rural areas.
Compare Rural Internet Service Providers Prices & Plans
Rural families will have more options for internet access as the Internet becomes better and more accessible. These are the top six internet providers that rural households love:
A growing industry: Rural Internet
High-speed Internet is now considered a utility and not a luxury since 2016. In a landmark decision, a federal court ruled that high-speed Internet should be treated like any other utility such as power or phone lines. This will allow for better oversight of broadband providers and greater protections for internet users.
This ruling also required that both the FCC and internet service providers play a greater role in ensuring affordable internet access for Americans, including in rural areas and low-income households.
Internet access for rural areas is improving already, and we expect that this trend will continue in the future. 5G internet will make great strides in rural broadband internet. Rural households no longer need to rely solely on dial-up connections. There are many options available, including DSL, cable, DSL and fibre, satellite, and fixed wireless plans.
Minnesota is an example. The state spent $85.2 million to increase utility access. It’s paying off. Only 39% of Minnesota households had internet access at 100/20 Mbps in 2015. This option is now available to 74% of households.
The traditional internet providers are not the only ones trying to increase internet access in rural areas. Satellite-based Internet via Starlink, which uses SpaceX’s technology, aims to increase global connectivity. High-speed rural internet options for high-speed connectivity are increasing.
Use our Internet in My Area tool to explore your rural high-speed internet options.