Top 17 Internet Providers in New York City (NYC), New York (Nov 2021)
Most New Yorkers will have the option of deciding between Spectrum and Verizon when shopping for an internet provider. Verizon actually offers two home internet services in the city: Verizon Fios, which offers fiber internet, and Verizon High Speed Internet, which offers DSL internet. Even though Verizon High Speed Internet is more available, Verizon Fios offers up to 10 times more speed and better prices.
Fastest Internet Providers in New York City
If it’s available to you, Verizon Fios fiber internet is the fastest in the city, with download and upload speed up to 1,000 Mbps. Its counterpart, Verizon High Speed Internet, is not as impressive, offering speeds only up to 15 Mbps.
Cable internet is the second fastest option in New York City. Spectrum, the most available cable provider, offers download speeds up to 1,000 Mbps and upload speeds up to 35 Mbps. RCN also offers similar speeds but is only available to 36 percent of New Yorkers who are mostly located in Astoria, Elmhurst, and Steinway.
If you’re looking for a wireless home internet option, Starry Internet is a fixed wireless provider that offers up to 200 Mbps. That’s more than enough speed for a household with 6-plus people/devices connected. There are a few other providers, like Consolidated Communications, who are available to less than 10 percent of New York and offer gigabit speeds.
Cheapest Internet in New York City
If you’re looking for a low-priced internet-only plan, Verizon Fios is your best option. Prices start at $39.99 per month for download and upload speeds up to 200 Mbps, and can go as high as $80 per month for gigabit speed.
Spectrum is only a few dollars more, with prices ranging from $49.99-$109.99 per month for speeds ranging between 200-1,000 Mbps.
Frankly, RCN has the lowest-priced internet deals in NYC, offering between 100-1,000 Mbps for only $29.99-$50 per month. Click on “View Plans & Pricing” next to RCN above to see which deals they’re currently offering.
Comparing Verizon Fios and Spectrum
Whether you’re looking to bundle or cut the cord, most New Yorkers choose either Verizon Fios or Spectrum. Verizon Fios is the faster option, but bundle-seekers looking for a deal turn to Spectrum since they have lower-priced double and triple play plans, starting at $89.98 per month.
Verizon Fios bundles start at $104.99 per month but are more customizable thanks to the Fios TV Test Drive plan. With this option, Verizon will give you access to 425-plus channels, then recommend a plan for you based on your viewing history after 60 days.
Digital Equity Programs in New York City
New York City is the first in the nation to pass a law requiring internet providers to provide affordable low-income internet to families. The passing of this legislation is part of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s 2021 Connectivity Agenda, which aims to connect all New Yorkers with affordable high-speed internet. Since June 2021, ISPs in New York offer up to 25 Mbps for as little as $15 a month. If you’re eligible for public assistance or other low-income internet programs, it’s likely you may qualify. Contact your chosen provider to find out more.
If you’re looking for free internet, visit any branch of the New York City Public Library, or a LinkNYC kiosk (which have been designed to replace pay phones with Wi-Fi access); you can also check out scattered areas around Lower Manhattan where Downtown Alliance offers free Wi-Fi.