Internet Service Providers in California
The internet is one of the most valuable tools of the modern age. The current global pandemic has only served to reinforce that importance. But finding the perfect service provider can be a challenge. What do you need to know to find the best internet service providers in California?
Internet Providers Near Me in California
Depending on your location, there are 72 different internet providers to choose from.
California is the 17th most connected state in the U.S., with more than 85% of the state having access to more than one internet provider. Cable and DSL are the two most common internet types, followed closely by satellite. Fiber optic internet is available in less than one-quarter of the state, and most of that is restricted to high-population urban areas.
Cheapest Internet Providers in California
If you don’t need all the bells and whistles or want to get connected on a budget, you have a few different options to choose from.
Cox offers a basic internet package with download speeds of up to 10 Mbps for $29.99 a month. Frontier offers a similar plan, with speeds up to 6 Mbps, for $27.99. If it’s available in your area, Xfinity’s basic plan costs $29.99 monthly, but offers speeds up to 60 Mbps.
High-Speed Internet Options in California
There are plenty of high-speed options available in the great state of California, though you may find yourself scrambling for bandwidth in the more rural regions of the state. The best high-speed options are:
- Xfinity’s cable network — Up to 2,000 Mbps
- Spectrum’s cable network — Up to 1,000 Mbps
- Frontier’s fiber optic network — Up to 940 Mbps
- AT&T’s fiber optic network — Up to 1,000 Mbps
It’s important to check with each internet provider to determine what is available in your area.
What Is the Best Internet in California?
The answer to this question depends on what you need from an internet service provider. Are you looking for consistent service? What about high download speeds for video streaming? Maybe you need higher upload speeds for publishing videos to YouTube.
When it comes to pure speed, AT&T and Xfinity are at the top of the pack, with the former offering speeds up to 1,000 Mbps and the latter offering speeds up to 2,000 Mbps. Both offer high-speed fiber optic internet for around $70 a month. For the 2,000 Mbps speeds from Xfinity, you’ll be looking at a $299.95 monthly fee, as well as more than $1,000 in installation and activation costs.
How Much Is the Internet Per Month in California?
If you’re looking for something beyond the basic, there are dozens of options for you to choose from. Other internet providers will typically vary in price from $39.95 a month to $74.95 a month and up, depending on the location, the type of connection and the speed you desire. Prices go up as speeds increase and features become more plentiful.
It’s also important to note that many of these prices are based on signing a new contract with the provider, and may not remain the same throughout your relationship.
What Internet Provider Is the Best in My Area?
When it comes to finding the best internet service providers in California, you need to look closely at your location. Rural areas will have fewer options to choose from and generally slower speeds than their urban counterparts.
It might take a bit of trial and error to find the best internet provider to fit your needs, so don’t be afraid to shop around a little before you make your final decision.
Internet Service Providers in California by City
Anaheim internet service providers
Fontana internet service providers
Irvine internet service providers
Modesto internet service providers
Oxnard internet service providers