Thanks to technology, data sharing and file transfer are faster than ever before. And this is possible only due to the fact that we have access to blazing-fast internet. In the USA, many internet service providers come with their unique internet offerings and prices. Just like how the Spectrum internet prices differ for different offerings. Similarly, other ISPs also have different packages available.
If you are living in the USA and want to understand what is the cost of these packages and related aspects, then you will find a lot of important information in the passages below.
Cost of Different Internet Packages
Generally, an internet package costs around $60 per month on average. This is because users have to pay the device (modem) feel apart from the package cost. However, more expensive packages can cost more than $100 as well. Below are the details of some of the popular ISPs.
AT&T
AT&T is quite a popular ISP in the US. The service provider has packages starting from $35. They provide internet connections to their users over fiber cables. The bundles that they provide are for the internet and TV only. AT&T provides downloading speeds ranging from 0.8 Mbps to 940 Mbps depending on the user’s package.
Spectrum
Spectrum is quite renowned for good up-time and fluent service provision. They provide speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to 940 Mbps. This means that even the most basic package comes with top-notch downloading speeds. Furthermore, the packages begin at $49.99. They provide the internet over hybrid-fiber and coaxial cables. And lastly, they provide services for three i.e., internet, TV, and cable.
Viasat
For people living in remote areas, a very good option is Viasat. The packages begin from $40 and include subscriptions to TV, internet, and phone. The speeds range from 12 Mbps to 100 Mbps. As the name implies, the company uses satellites to provide internet connectivity.
What Increases the Overall Cost?
Most internet users in the US pay more money than the price of the package that they subscribe to. There are many reasons that your baseline package may increase. They are as follows:
Equipment Rent
If you do not have your own modem or router, then you may have to get one on rent from your service provider. This addition will increase your monthly payment. You will incur a cost of around $10-$20 per month for this.
Installation Fees
Installation costs are unavoidable. However, the good news is that they are a one-time cost investment only. Some providers may even offer installation services for free due to ongoing promotions.
Late Payment Fine
If you are unable to pay your monthly fee on time, then you may be required to pay a late payment fine. This is normally up to a set free of around $20.
Cancelation Fee
Most of the ISPs provide internet packages on a contract basis. This means that you will need to remain a subscriber of their service for a certain time limit. However, if you want to unsubscribe from the service, you may need to pay a cancellation fee.
Taxes
State and federal taxes also contribute to an increase in the total cost of your monthly internet subscription.
Is the Cost Too High?
You may be wondering if this cost is too high and if the internet service providers are simply charging high rates. However, that’s not entirely true. There are several reasons why the ISPs have to set prices in such a way.
One of the top reasons why internet prices are high compared to other home commodities is that the ISPs have to maintain their network of transmission. Consider the example of an ISP providing services over a fiber network. They have to provide the fiber cable to every household and this involves a lot of costs. Furthermore, they have to maintain these lines in the long run as well and replace any damaged areas. Therefore, they have to set prices in such a way.
Another reason why you may have to incur a high cost on your internet plan is your package selection. Do not opt for a double or triple play if you only want to get a high-speed internet connection. Only opt for plans that suit your needs and requirements.
With all of the discussion above, hopefully, you have a clear idea of the general internet costs in the USA and the factors that influence them. Figure out what you’re looking for and subscribe to a package most suited to your needs.