Best internet providers in NYC: find fast & affordable options
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There’s no shortage of internet providers in New York City. In this highly connected city, residents rely on fast and reliable internet for work, entertainment, and much more. This guide will compare speeds, pricing, and features to help you find the best internet providers in NYC.
Each internet service provider in NYC has its strengths, so finding the right one will depend on your needs and budget. Verizon’s Fios offers reliable fiber-optic service, ideal for most New Yorkers. Xfinity provides high-end cable internet with plans that fit a variety of budgets. Spectrum is known for its wide availability and straightforward, no-contract plans.
For the best speeds, Xfinity leads with up to 10,000 Mbps (10 Gbps) in some areas, though it’s expensive. Hughesnet’s satellite service ensures rural households stay connected at decent speeds.
Now, let’s dive into NYC’s top internet providers.
List of the top internet providers in NYC
Get fast and reliable whole-home Wi-Fi with Verizon!
Build your perfect plan with Xfinity — flexible internet for any household
Switch to Spectrum for reliable speeds and no data caps
Enjoy incredible speeds with Optimum’s 8 Gbps fiber internet
Stay connected anywhere with Hughesnet satellite internet
Types of internet services available in NYC
There are plenty of options available to stay connected in NYC. However, picking the right internet type for your home or office requires some knowledge. Here’s a breakdown of the types of internet services available in NYC and their pros and cons:
Cable internet
Cable is an old-school classic in the U.S. It’s relatively fast and great for streaming or browsing on multiple devices. However, during peak hours, it may slow down because you share the connection with your neighbors. This is a small trade-off for cable's widespread availability and ease of use.
Fiber internet
Fiber internet is all about speed and consistency. It’s perfect for big households or anyone who needs a reliable internet connection for work or gaming. However, not every building or block in NYC has access to fiber internet. If you live in a covered area, it’s worth considering.
DSL
Another classic, DSL, is widely available and often affordable. Delivered through phone lines, it’s a good choice for everyday internet needs like checking emails or streaming. That said, if you plan to stream in 4K or have multiple users online, you may find it lacking.
Satellite internet
Satellite internet is the internet of last resort, but it gets the job done. It works anywhere, making it a lifesaver in hard-to-reach areas. That said, bad weather will affect your connection, and the speeds are far from blazing. Still, for some, it’s the only option available.
5G home internet
5G home internet is the newcomer on the block. It skips wires entirely, bringing the internet to your home via cellular networks (similar to your smartphone’s cellular connection). The setup is simple, and speeds can be impressive if you’re near a 5G tower. Coverage is still expanding, so performance will vary depending on your location, and slowdowns may occur unexpectedly.
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Best internet providers in NYC
Next, you’ll find a deep dive into our top NYC internet providers. We’ve covered everything from city coverage to unique features and speed:
1. Verizon – overall best internet provider in NYC

Coverage % in NYC: | 85.3% |
Pricing: | Starting at $35.00/month, Gigabit plans start from $89.99/month |
Speed: | Up to 2.3 Gbps |
Unique Features: | No contracts, Whole-Home Wi-Fi included with select plans, symmetrical download and upload speeds |
Verizon has been around for a long time and offers several full-fiber internet plans in NYC. Its coverage spans 85.3% of the city.
Verizon’s Fios 300 plan offers 300 Mbps speeds for $35.00/month (with AutoPay and a mobile plan). The Fios 2 Gig plan offers 2 Gbps for $84.99/month when bundled with a mobile plan or $109.99/month on its own. These options can easily satisfy heavy streaming and gaming demands.
Verizon’s speeds are symmetrical, so downloads and uploads are equally fast. This makes it great for video calls, online gaming, or sharing large files. Whole-Home Wi-Fi is included in some plans, boosting weak signals in tricky spots. Verizon offers some perks like 12 months of Netflix and Max or an Xbox gaming bundle.
Verizon provides up to $500 to cover early termination fees, easing the move. There are no hidden fees or contracts.
2. Xfinity – best internet provider in NYC for the fastest speeds

Coverage % in NYC: | 21% |
Pricing: | Starting at $19.99/month for 150 Mbps; Gigabit plans available from $75/month |
Speed: | Up to 10 Gbps |
Unique Features: | No contract plans, high data cap, StreamSaver bundles for streaming services |
Xfinity offers many internet plans for NYC residents, but it covers just 21% of the city. Its budget-friendly Light Connect plan starts at $25.00/month (promotional rate) for 150 Mbps speeds.
For maximum performance, I recommend Xfinity’s Gigabit Pro plan, which offers up to 10 Gbps for $300/month for heavy media demands or businesses. Although some prices increase after the first year, Xfinity’s speeds and features are competitive.
All Xfinity plans come with a 1.2 TB (terabyte) data cap, more than enough for families or heavy streamers. Its StreamSaver bundle offers Netflix, Peacock, and Apple TV+ for $15/month, unlocking popular streaming platforms without having to manage multiple subscriptions.
Some plans do not require contracts, so you can cancel at any time. Xfinity’s fast speeds, bundled streaming options, and 1.2 TB data cap are tough to beat for those in covered areas.
3. Spectrum – best internet provider for no-contract cable internet

Coverage % in NYC: | 82.7% |
Pricing: | Starting at $30/month for 100 Mbps when bundled; Gigabit plans available from $40/month when bundled |
Speed: | Up to 1 Gbps |
Unique Features: | No data caps or contracts, free modem and antivirus software, discounted mobile and TV bundles |
Spectrum has the second-most extensive coverage in NYC after Verizon, reaching 82.7% of households and offering several no-frills plans. Its base Internet Advantage plan starts at $40/month for 100 Mbps when bundled with an Unlimited Mobile line.
Its Internet Gig plan delivers up to 1 Gbps for $40/month when paired with 2 Unlimited Plus Mobile lines and a TV plan. It’s a strong choice for families or users looking for internet and mobile services.
All Spectrum plans include unlimited data, a free modem, antivirus software, and advanced WiFi with Gig plans. There are no contracts, so customers can cancel without penalties.
Though its speeds top out at 1 Gbps, Spectrum’s affordable bundles, widespread availability, and flexibility make it a popular choice for NYC households.
4. Optimum – best internet provider for added value

Coverage % in NYC: | 42.5% |
Pricing: | Starting at $40/month for 300 Mbps; Gigabit plan available at $60/monthSpeed: Up to 8 Gbps |
Speed: | Up to 8 Gbps |
Unique Features: | Free installation, router included, gift card promotions with bundles |
Optimum covers 42.5% of NYC and offers great bundles. It has both fiber and cable internet plans. When you combine its internet plans with mobile or TV services, Optimum sweetens the deal with bundle perks, like up to $400 in gift cards.
The starter Optimum 300 Mbps plan, ideal for browsing and light streaming, costs $40/month. For those who need more powerful performance, Optimum’s 8 Gbps plan (one of the fastest in NYC) costs $280/month.
Every plan (except for the top plan) comes with free installation from 1 Gig onwards when ordered online. It also includes a Gateway 6 router and Optimum extender to help with dead zones.
There are no data caps, so you can stream, download, and game all you want. Optimum’s fiber coverage doesn’t match Verizon’s, but it delivers competitive speeds and practical features.
5. Hughesnet – Best internet provider for remote locations

Coverage % in NYC: | 100% |
Pricing: | Starting at $49.99/month for 50 Mbps; 100 Megabit plans at $64.99/month |
Speed: | Up to 100 Mbps |
Unique Features: | Available everywhere, plans for low-latency gaming and streaming, satellite-based service |
Hughesnet’s satellite internet covers 100% of NYC, making it an option even in remote areas. Its base plan starts at $49.99/month for up to 50 Mbps, and its top-tier Fusion plan goes up to 100 Mbps for $94.99/month. Its speeds can handle standard streaming, browsing, and social media without major issues (if the weather is clear).
Hughesnet’s Fusion plan combines satellite and wireless networks, reducing latency. This ensures better response in gaming, video conferencing, and streaming. All Hughesnet plans include unlimited data, though usage beyond a set Priority Data limit may cut speeds during peak times.
Hughesnet also includes built-in Wi-Fi with advanced Wi-Fi 6 expanded home network performance. Customers can add optional Mesh Wi-Fi nodes to eliminate dead zones in larger homes.
Hughesnet is a tried-and-true provider. It’s an excellent option for places without fiber or cable.
Comparison of the best internet providers in New York City
To make choosing the best internet provider in NYC easier for you, we’ve included a comparison table summarizing key attributes of each provider, such as their starting price, speed, bundles, and other information:
Provider | Rating | Starting price | Max download speed | Max upload speed | Connection type | Bundles |
Verizon | $35.00/month | Up to 2.3 Gbps | Up to 2.3 Gbps (symmetrical) | Fiber | Netflix/Max for 12 months, Xbox gaming bundle | |
Xfinity | $19.99/month | Up to 10 Gbps | Up to 10 Gbps (symmetrical) | Cable, Fiber | StreamSaver bundle (Netflix, Peacock, Apple TV+); iPhone 16 Pro with trade-in; mobile and internet bundle options | |
Spectrum | $30/month | Up to 1 Gbps | 35 Mbps or higher | Cable, Fiber | Free modem, antivirus software, TV and mobile bundles, Unlimited mobile line included; Advanced WiFi with certain bundles; Disney+ & ESPN+ with Spectrum TV | |
Optimum | $40/month | Up to 8 Gbps | Up to 8 Gbps (symmetrical) | Cable, Fiber | $200 Mastercard gift card with bundles; Free installation and Wi-Fi extenders; Unlimited mobile line discount | |
HughesNet | $49.99 month | Up to 100 Mbps | Up to 5 Mbps | Satellite | Fusion Plan (satellite + wireless); free professional installation, Wi-Fi 6 modem included, optional mesh Wi-Fi upgrades |
If you need fast upload speeds for video calls or creative work, Verizon and Optimum offer fast, symmetrical connections. Xfinity stands alone for download-heavy activities like streaming or gaming, especially with its high-speed plans and appealing bundles. However, aside from its top-tier plans, the upload speeds for most of Xfinity’s plans aren’t as impressive.
Spectrum is a practical option in NYC if you care more about wide coverage and straightforward plans. That said, its upload speeds might feel limiting. If you live in remote parts of the city, Hughesnet keeps you connected via satellite, even if its speeds are more modest.
How to choose the best NYC internet providers
Finding the best internet provider in NYC isn’t straightforward, but we can help you determine which option best suits your needs.
If you work remotely and make video calls or upload large files, you need at least a 300 Mbps download and 100 Mbps upload speed. Verizon and Optimum excel in this regard. Their robust fiber internet plans are more than enough. Verizon, especially, earns high marks for customer satisfaction in NYC.
For families, the story is different. Spectrum’s wide availability in NYC and unlimited data internet plans make it an excellent choice for everyone in a household. If your area has fiber internet, Optimum’s speed can be a game-changer for large households. Both providers offer flexible, no-contract plans, so you can switch.
If you’re on a tight budget, Xfinity’s entry-level plans are suitable for lighter use, such as casual browsing or streaming. Keep an eye on promotional rates, which are attractive upfront but tend to rise after 12 months. If customer service is a priority, note that Xfinity scores moderately compared to Verizon or Spectrum.
Are you in a remote or rural area where satellite internet might be the only option? Some areas don’t have high-speed internet infrastructure to support DSL, cable, or fiber internet. In that case, you need a satellite connection.
Though Hughesnet is slow compared to its competitors, it’s reliable for sending emails, regular web browsing, and streaming. However, it typically requires a longer-term contract, and bad weather, such as storms and heavy clouds, may disrupt its performance.
When choosing an internet provider, consider how many devices will be connected simultaneously and whether you intend to engage in activities like gaming, video calls, or streaming in 4K. If speed is critical, fiber internet plans (such as Verizon’s) are your best option. If flexibility or affordability matters more, providers like Spectrum or Xfinity are solid options.
What makes a provider the best depends on what matters most to you: speed, price, reliability, or service terms. The good news is that NYC has something for everyone. Take a moment to evaluate your needs, and you’ll find a plan that fits.
What is the cheapest internet service in NYC?
Xfinity’s basic plan, which starts at $19.99 per month and offers speeds of up to 150 Mbps, is the cheapest internet service option in NYC. Here’s a more comprehensive look at the cheapest plans from each provider above:
Starting price | Max download speed | Monthly equipment fee | |
Verizon | $35.00/month | 300 Mbps | Free |
Xfinity | $19.99/month | 150 Mbps | $15 (optional rental) |
Spectrum | $30/month | 100 Mbps | Free modem, $10 for router |
Optimum | $40/month | 300 Mbps | Free |
Hughesnet | $49.99/month | 50 Mbps | $15/month |
The prices of our top internet providers in NYC vary. When searching for the cheapest internet service in NYC, consider the value you will get, such as perks and service terms. Sometimes, paying a little extra goes a long way.
What is the fastest internet service in NYC?
According to Speedtest by Ookla, New York City ranks 12th among the top 100 U.S. cities for median fixed broadband speeds. With a median download speed of 228.04 Mbps and a median upload speed of 31.72 Mbps, NYC performs well but is below the national median download speed of 253.34 Mbps and upload speed of 38.55 Mbps.
If you’re looking for the absolute best speed, there are 3 NYC providers offering cutting-edge plans. Xfinity boasts the top speed with its 10 Gbps plan, priced at $300/month. It’s perfect for data-heavy downloads, and its upload speed is identical to its download speed (symmetrical).
Optimum offers a more balanced approach. It provides 8 Gbps symmetrical speeds for $280/month, making it almost as fast as Xfinity but cheaper.
Verizon Fios, a trusted name in the fiber internet space, offers 2 Gbps symmetrical speeds for $119.99/month. It has the widest NYC coverage and delivers good performance.
Here are NYC’s top-tier plans:
Internet provider | Starting price | Max download speed | Max upload speed |
Xfinity | $300/month | 10 Gbps | 10 Gbps |
Optimum | $280/month | 8 Gbps | 8 Gbps |
Verizon | $110/month | 2.3 Gbps | 1.5 Gbps |
How we chose the best internet services in NYC
Choosing the best internet providers in New York City is about figuring out what works for you in a city where your building might limit your options. We started by digging into availability because not every provider is accessible in every neighborhood. Fiber internet powerhouses like Verizon and Optimum made the list for their blazing speeds. Spectrum got points for flexibility, and Hughesnet deserved a mention for covering hard-to-reach areas.
Of course, we looked at speeds and prices. But we also paid attention to the little things, like how well providers perform during peak hours or what extra perks they offer.
Verizon’s symmetrical speeds make it a stand-out choice for work-from-home professionals and gamers. Spectrum’s unlimited data is a lifesaver for big households with multiple devices. And Xfinity caught our eye with its high performance and bundled streaming perks.
Ultimately, it’s about matching a plan to your needs. Maybe you’re a student streaming Netflix on a budget, a remote worker, or a family that needs a reliable plan to cover everyone’s devices. Whatever it is, this guide pulls together the info you need to make a smart, no-stress choice.
A final word
Finding the right internet provider isn’t just about the fastest speeds or the lowest price. It’s about what works best for you and where you live. Working from home, gaming all night, or running a house full of streamers? Whatever the case may be, the right connection makes life easier.
In NYC, Verizon takes the crown. It delivers reliable, symmetrical speeds. It also boasts extensive coverage and extras like whole-home Wi-Fi, making it perfect for nearly every household. Use this guide and the comparison charts to explore your options.
FAQ
What is the fastest internet provider in NYC?
Xfinity (Comcast) offers the fastest internet in NYC. Its top-tier Gigabit Pro plan boasts up to 10 Gbps download and 10 Gbps upload speeds. However, it costs $300 per month plus a steep installation fee. And you’ll have to be less than 2,000 feet from Xfinity’s fiber node.
Which providers offer fiber internet in NYC?
Several providers offer fiber internet in NYC. Among our top contenders, Verizon, Optimum, and Xfinity are great options, delivering blazing-fast download and upload speeds.
Verizon has the widest fiber availability. Optimum and Xfinity do not cover some parts of the city, but you'll get the fastest speeds in NYC if you’re lucky enough to be near its nodes.
Are there any internet providers in NYC without data caps?
Yes, several internet providers in NYC provide plans without data caps. For instance, Verizon, Spectrum, and Optimum all have unlimited data plans. Other providers, like Xfinity, offer high data cap plans with the option of unlimited data as an add-on. Ultimately, finding an internet provider in NYC without data caps is not difficult.
What is the cheapest internet provider in NYC?
Among our contenders, Xfinity offers the cheapest internet plan in NYC — $19.99 monthly for download speeds up to 150 Mbps. These prices may seem attractive, but be mindful that promotional rates might increase after the first 12 months. It’s always worth checking long-term costs and available features before you commit.
How can I qualify for low-income internet programs in NYC?
You need to meet specific criteria to qualify for low-income internet programs in NYC. Programs like Optimum Advantage, Spectrum Internet Assist, and Verizon Forward require participation in initiatives like SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI (internet for seniors, for instance).
For New York’s Affordable Broadband Act plans, your household must meet income limits or be involved in approved programs. Plans can start as low as $15/month for 25-100 Mbps speeds.
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