SAN RAFAEL, CA INTERNET
Find internet providers in San Rafael, CA
Find internet offered in San Rafael, CA – easily compare options from multiple providers to find the plan that best fits your needs.
We analyzed 18 census tracts and 5 ZIP codes across San Rafael using our Speed Score methodology to figure out what actually works here. For most residents, AT&T, Xfinity, and Sonic.net offer the broadest coverage, though we also identified options like Unwired Ltd, Starlink, and Verizon that make sense for specific addresses. We rank providers by real serviceability data, not by who pays us commissions—just straightforward information to help you find better internet. —The FindBetterInternet Team
Shop and compare 10 internet providers for San Rafael, CA
The 30-Second Verdict
UpdatedIf you want the fastest connection San Rafael offers, start with fiber. Sonic.net runs symmetrical fiber up to a blistering 10,000/10,000 Mbps but only reaches about 20% of the city, concentrated downtown—it actually wins around ZIP 94915, where it covers over 60% of addresses. AT&T fiber is more widespread, hitting roughly 30% of the city with speeds up to 5,000/5,000 Mbps, and it shows up strongly in Marinwood (94903). Either is overkill unless you’re doing heavy work-from-home, big uploads, or competitive gaming in a device-packed household. For most people, though, Xfinity cable is the smarter, cheaper call: it covers about 74% of San Rafael with speeds up to 2,000/300 Mbps and dominates neighborhoods like Marinwood (60%) and Gerstle Park (94901). If you mainly stream, browse, and hop on Zoom, cable is plenty. Unwired’s fixed wireless (about 79% coverage, up to 300/25 Mbps) is a decent budget backup, and Starlink satellite (220/30 Mbps) is the fallback only if wired options skip your address. Coverage shifts street to street—confirm your exact address, and if you’re renting near Dominican, verify the unit is actually wired for fiber.
Speed Score: Faster than 98% of all internet options in California
SPEED SCORE
Local data shows excellent speeds for your area
This score is based on local bandwidth data and indicates this provider offers some of the best speeds available in your area.
The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for San Rafael
If you can get AT&T fiber at your address, it’s a top-tier choice—their symmetrical plans reach up to 5000↓/5000↑ Mbps with an outstanding 98/100 speed score, well above the city average of 64 and ideal for heavy streaming, gaming, and working from home. However, fiber only reaches about 30% of San Rafael, so if you’re limited to their copper/DSL service (speed scores ranging from just 3 to 52 out of 100), performance is basic and better suited only to light browsing. In that case, it’s worth checking what other technologies are available at your specific address before committing.
About AT&T
AT&T covers most of San Rafael (92.9%), but the quality varies dramatically by address. If you’re in the lucky 30% of areas with fiber access, you’ll get excellent speeds up to 5000 Mbps (top-tier in California), but most residents are stuck with slower copper DSL or fixed wireless options that score below average and may struggle with modern streaming and video calls. Definitely check if fiber is available at your address first—if not, you should compare other providers since the copper options here likely won’t meet your needs.
Available Plans
Copper
Copper
Copper
Copper
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Fiber
Copper
Fiber
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Speeds may vary based on location and network conditions. AT&T Fiber plans: No annual contract, no data caps, symmetrical upload/download speeds. AT&T Internet Air (wireless): Speeds typically 40-140 Mbps. Equipment fee of $10/mo applies unless using customer-owned equipment where eligible. Autopay & paperless billing required for advertised pricing; without autopay, additional $10/mo charge applies. Limited availability – service and speeds not available in all areas. Internet speed claims represent maximum wired network service capability speeds and actual customer speeds may vary. Installation fees may apply. Early termination fees may apply to fixed wireless services. Additional terms apply.
Speed Score: Faster than 94% of all internet options in California
SPEED SCORE
Local data shows excellent speeds for your area
This score is based on local bandwidth data and indicates this provider offers some of the best speeds available in your area.
The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Good
Good
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for San Rafael
Xfinity covers 98.5% of San Rafael with cable service, and its top plan delivers a blazing 2000↓/300↑ Mbps with a 94/100 speed score—well above the city average of 64 and a top-tier option for even the most demanding households. If that top tier is available at your address, it’s an excellent, reliable choice for streaming, gaming, and heavy multi-device use. Where you’re limited to the 1200↓/35↑ Mbps plan (89/100 speed score), you’ll still get strong download performance, though the lower upload speed is worth noting if you frequently upload large files or video conference.
About Xfinity
Xfinity is an excellent choice for San Rafael residents, covering 98.5% of the area with cable internet that delivers impressive speeds. Their top plan offers 2000 Mbps download speeds (scoring 94/100 in the state) and is available across 73.8% of census blocks, which should handle even the most demanding households with multiple users streaming, gaming, and working from home. With these high-speed cable options widely available, Xfinity should be a strong contender for most addresses in San Rafael.
Available Plans
Cable
Cable
Speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. Actual speeds vary based on device, connection, and other factors. Early termination fees may apply. Equipment rental fees typically $15/mo unless customer-owned modem used. 1.2 TB monthly data plan included; unlimited data available for additional fee. Installation fees may apply. Pricing for new customers only; rates increase after promotional period. Service subject to availability and may require credit check. Additional fees including Broadcast TV fee, Regional Sports fee, and other surcharges may apply to bundled services.
Sonic.net
Speeds up to 10000 Mbps
Plans start at $40 /mo *
Speed Score: Faster than 100% of all internet options in California
SPEED SCORE
Local data shows excellent speeds for your area
This score is based on local bandwidth data and indicates this provider offers some of the best speeds available in your area.
The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for San Rafael
If you can get Sonic.net fiber at your San Rafael address, it’s a top-tier choice, delivering symmetrical 10,000 Mbps download and upload speeds with a perfect 100/100 speed score. That’s well above the city’s average top speed score of 64, and the fiber technology means low latency and reliable performance for everything from 4K streaming to gaming and heavy work-from-home use. The main catch is availability—Sonic.net’s fiber currently reaches about 20% of the city, so it’s worth confirming your specific address qualifies.
About Sonic.net
Sonic.net offers excellent 10 Gbps fiber internet in San Rafael, with speeds in the top tier statewide (Speed Score: 100/100), but it’s only available to about 20% of the city. If their fiber service is available at your address, it’s an outstanding choice with symmetrical upload and download speeds perfect for any modern internet need. However, if you’re in the 80% of San Rafael without coverage, you’ll need to explore other providers.
Available Plans
Fiber
Speeds: Fiber speeds up to 10 Gbps available in select areas; actual speeds may vary based on location and technology (Fiber, Fixed Wireless, DSL). No data caps on any plans. No contracts required – month-to-month service available. Equipment: Router included with fiber service at no additional charge. Installation fees may apply depending on service type. Price lock guarantee – residential internet prices won’t increase while you remain a customer. Some areas may have limited availability. Service subject to qualification and availability at service address.
Unwired Ltd
Speeds up to 300 Mbps
Speed Score: Faster than 79% of all internet options in California
SPEED SCORE
Local data shows average speeds for your area
This score is based on local bandwidth data and indicates this provider offers competitive speeds in your area.
The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Good
Adequate
Adequate
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for San Rafael
Unwired Ltd delivers licensed fixed wireless with plans reaching 300↓/25↑ Mbps and a solid speed score of 79/100, which lands above the San Rafael city average of 64. That makes it a competitive, above-average choice for streaming, video calls, and everyday browsing across the nearly 79% of the city it covers. Keep in mind that fixed wireless can be sensitive to weather and line-of-sight conditions, so if you need the lowest latency for gaming or heavy uploads, it’s worth checking whether a wired connection is available at your specific address.
About Unwired Ltd
Unwired Ltd offers fixed wireless internet with 300 Mbps download speeds to nearly 79% of San Rafael, earning a good speed score of 79/100. While fixed wireless can work for most households, it may experience reliability issues during bad weather or with obstructions compared to wired connections. If you have fiber or cable options available at your address, those would likely provide more consistent performance, but Unwired Ltd is a solid choice if traditional wired internet isn’t accessible to you.
Available Plans
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Speed Score: Faster than 69% of all internet options in California
SPEED SCORE
Local data shows below average speeds for your area
This score is based on local bandwidth data and is an indicator that there are better options in your area.
The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Adequate
Poor
Poor
Adequate
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for San Rafael
Starlink covers 100% of San Rafael with its satellite service, delivering 220↓/30↑ Mbps at a speed score of 69/100—just below the city average of 64 and a solid pick if you need internet where wired options don’t reach. However, satellite comes with higher latency than ground-based connections, which can affect video calls and gaming. Since San Rafael has both fiber and cable available in parts of the city, it’s worth checking what wired technologies serve your specific address before committing, as they typically offer lower latency and stronger real-world performance.
About Starlink
Starlink offers satellite internet with 220 Mbps download speeds across 100% of San Rafael, earning a decent speed score of 69/100. While these speeds are adequate for most household needs, satellite internet comes with inherent limitations like higher latency and weather sensitivity that can affect video calls and gaming. Before choosing Starlink, check if fiber or cable providers serve your address, as they’ll typically offer more reliable performance at competitive prices.
Available Plans
Ngso Satellite
Speeds: 25-100 Mbps download typical, with brief periods of higher speeds up to 220 Mbps. Upload speeds 5-10 Mbps typical. Speeds vary based on location, time of day, and network congestion. Latency 25-60ms typical. No data caps. No contracts – cancel anytime. One-time hardware purchase of $599 for standard dish and router (or $12/mo financing available in some areas). $50 shipping and handling fee. Service requires clear view of sky. 30-day trial period – full refund if returned within 30 days. Best effort service – speeds not guaranteed. Network management during congestion may prioritize certain traffic types. Monthly service fee subject to change.
Speed Score: Faster than 78% of all internet options in California
SPEED SCORE
Local data shows average speeds for your area
This score is based on local bandwidth data and indicates this provider offers competitive speeds in your area.
The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Good
Adequate
Adequate
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for San Rafael
Verizon covers about 48% of San Rafael with licensed fixed wireless service, so availability comes down to your specific address. If you can get their top plan, it delivers 300↓/20↑ Mbps with a solid speed score of 78/100—above the city average of 64 and plenty for streaming, video calls, and everyday use. Just note that fixed wireless can be less consistent than wired connections, and if you’re only eligible for the slower 50↓/5↑ Mbps tier (score 44/100), it’s worth checking what fiber or cable options are available at your address before committing.
About Verizon
Verizon covers nearly half of San Rafael but only offers Licensed Fixed Wireless service, which can be inconsistent compared to fiber or cable options. Their faster 300/20 Mbps plan scores decently (78/100) and could work for most households if available at your address, though the upload speed is limited. I’d recommend checking if other providers offer fiber or cable at your specific location first, as those technologies typically provide more reliable performance for modern streaming and work-from-home needs.
Available Plans
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Speeds: Fios speeds are wired and based on maximum wired speed to your router. Actual speeds may vary. 5G Home Internet speeds vary with location and conditions. Fees: Monthly equipment charges may apply; router purchase option available. One-time setup/activation fees may apply. Contracts: Generally no annual contract required; month-to-month service available. Data: No data caps on Fios plans. Early termination: If promotional pricing applied, early termination may result in charges. Availability varies by address. Additional taxes, fees, and surcharges apply.
Speed Score: Faster than 58% of all internet options in California
SPEED SCORE
Local data shows below average speeds for your area
This score is based on local bandwidth data and is an indicator that there are better options in your area.
The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Good
Adequate
Adequate
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for San Rafael
T-Mobile brings fixed wireless internet to about 60.5% of San Rafael, with its top plan reaching 100↓/20↑ Mbps at a speed score of 58/100—below the city average of 64 and short of the top-tier fiber and cable technologies available in this market. Fixed wireless is a reasonable option for everyday browsing, streaming, and video calls, but performance can fluctuate with network conditions and signal strength. Since faster, lower-latency technologies exist in San Rafael, it’s worth checking which other options reach your specific address before committing, especially if you need consistent speeds for heavy usage.
About T-Mobile
T-Mobile offers licensed fixed wireless service to about 60% of San Rafael, but with below-average speeds that may struggle with modern internet needs. Their fastest plan delivers 100 Mbps download speeds (scoring 58/100 in the state), which could work for basic streaming and browsing, but isn’t ideal for households with multiple users or heavy internet usage. Before choosing T-Mobile, you should check if faster cable or fiber options are available at your address, as those technologies typically offer more reliable performance.
Available Plans
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Speeds typically 72-245 Mbps, some locations may receive 5G service with speeds up to 245+ Mbps. Actual speeds vary based on location, network conditions, and device capabilities. No annual contracts, no data caps, no equipment fees. Price Lock guarantee for existing customers on eligible plans. AutoPay discount required using eligible payment method (bank account or debit card). Credit check required. Service availability and speeds depend on cellular network coverage in your area. Not available in all areas. Taxes and fees additional.
Speed Score: Slower than 61% of all internet options in California
SPEED SCORE
Local data shows below average speeds for your area
This score is based on local bandwidth data and is an indicator that there are better options in your area.
The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Poor
Poor
Poor
Poor
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for San Rafael
Viasat’s satellite service reaches virtually all of San Rafael (99.9% coverage) with plans offering up to 150↓/3↑ Mbps, making it a viable option where wired connections aren’t available. That said, its speed score of 39/100 falls well below the city average of 64, and satellite technology carries higher latency that can affect video calls, gaming, and other real-time activities. Since San Rafael has fiber and cable options at many addresses, it’s worth checking what wired service you can get before committing—but if satellite is your best or only choice, Viasat delivers broadly available coverage.
About Viasat Inc
Viasat Inc offers satellite internet with near-universal coverage in San Rafael, but with a speed score of just 39/100 and satellite technology limitations like high latency, it’s best considered as a backup option. You should first check if faster providers with fiber or cable are available at your address, as those will deliver much better performance for streaming, video calls, and general household use. Satellite can work for basic browsing and email, but may struggle with modern internet demands.
Available Plans
Gso Satellite
24-month minimum service term required with early termination fees up to $400. Speeds may vary based on location, network conditions, and time of day. Installation fee typically $99-$299. Equipment lease fee of $13/mo or purchase option available. Data plans include priority data allowances (ranging from 40GB to 300GB depending on plan); after priority data is exhausted, speeds may be reduced during network congestion. Actual speeds may be lower than advertised maximum speeds. Service requires clear view of southern sky for satellite dish installation. Credit check required. Standard rates apply after promotional period ends, typically $69.99-$199.99/mo depending on plan. Some plans subject to data caps with additional fees for overage or speed throttling.
Speed Score: Slower than 71% of all internet options in California
SPEED SCORE
Local data shows below average speeds for your area
This score is based on local bandwidth data and is an indicator that there are better options in your area.
The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Poor
Poor
Poor
Poor
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for San Rafael
HughesNet’s Gso Satellite plan delivers 100↓/5↑ Mbps across all of San Rafael, but its speed score of 29/100 falls well below the city average of 64, reflecting the inherent limitations of satellite technology—including high latency that can hinder video calls, gaming, and other real-time activities. Its strength is universal coverage, making it a viable backup or last-resort option where wired service isn’t available. Before committing, it’s worth checking what other technologies reach your specific address, as San Rafael has fiber and cable options that offer faster, lower-latency performance for everyday use.
About HughesNet
HughesNet offers satellite internet with 100% coverage in San Rafael, but with a speed score of just 29/100, it’s significantly slower than most options in the state. Satellite internet also comes with high latency that makes video calls and gaming difficult, so you should definitely check if faster providers like cable or fiber are available at your address first. HughesNet works best as a last-resort option for addresses where no other providers offer service.
Available Plans
Gso Satellite
Satellite internet service with download speeds up to 25 Mbps and upload speeds up to 3 Mbps. All plans include data allowances (15-200 GB/month depending on plan) with reduced speeds after cap is reached. Bonus Zone (2AM-8AM) offers additional data. 24-month service commitment required; early termination fees apply up to $400. Equipment lease fee included in monthly price. Professional installation required ($100-$150 fee may apply). Weather and line-of-sight conditions may affect service quality. Not available in all areas. Actual speeds may vary and are not guaranteed.
Viasat Carrier Services Inc
Speeds up to 25 Mbps
Plans start at $49.99 /mo *
Speed Score: Slower than 100% of all internet options in California
SPEED SCORE
Local data shows below average speeds for your area
This score is based on local bandwidth data and is an indicator that there are better options in your area.
The calculated local speed score is based on real-world data showing average speeds in your area. Speed Score’s are not static and fluctuate based on the location being checked for serviceability. Average speeds within a ZIP Code may not be reflective of your specific location. Enter your full address to access the most accurate speed score.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Poor
Poor
Poor
Poor
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for San Rafael
Viasat covers nearly all of San Rafael, but its GSO satellite service tops out at 25↓/3↑ Mbps with a speed score of 0/100—well below the city’s 64 average. Satellite also carries high latency, which makes it a poor fit for video calls, gaming, or streaming and best reserved for basic browsing where nothing else reaches. With 10 providers in San Rafael, including two offering fiber and one offering cable, it’s worth checking what faster, lower-latency options are available at your specific address before committing to satellite.
About Viasat Carrier Services Inc
Viasat Carrier Services Inc offers satellite internet with very limited availability in San Rafael, covering less than 1% of the area with speeds of 25/3 Mbps that score 0/100 in the state. This satellite service has high latency and slow speeds suitable only for basic browsing, so you should definitely check if other providers offer fiber, cable, or even DSL options at your address first. Only consider Viasat if absolutely no other internet providers service your location.
Available Plans
Gso Satellite
Speeds may vary based on location, network conditions, and number of users. 24-month minimum service term required with early termination fees up to $300. Monthly data allowance varies by plan (typically 40GB-300GB); speeds reduced to 1-5 Mbps after data limit reached. Installation fee typically $99-$299. Monthly equipment lease fee $10-$13. Actual speeds may be lower than advertised due to factors including congestion, weather, and satellite connectivity. Subject to Viasat Internet Service Agreement and Acceptable Use Policy. Prices subject to change.
Best Fit by Household Type in San Rafael
Best Fit
Students & Roommates
Dominican University students should target Sonic.net's 10 Gbps fiber covering 61% of ZIP 94915.
Symmetric speeds handle multiple roommates streaming and gaming without upload bottlenecks.
Check first: Outside 94915, Xfinity's 2 Gbps cable covers 74% citywide as backup.
Best Fit
Remote Workers
Prioritize AT&T fiber (5 Gbps) in 30% of San Rafael or Sonic.net in 20%.
Symmetric upload speeds critical for video calls; fiber reaches Gerstle Park and Marinwood.
Check first: AT&T fiber only covers 30% citywide; verify address before committing to lease.
Best Fit
Gamers & Streamers
Sonic.net's 10 Gbps fiber in 20% of city offers best latency and upload.
61% of ZIP 94915 has access; symmetric speeds prevent stream lag during uploads.
Check first: In Terra Linda areas, Xfinity's 2 Gbps cable reaches 74% as alternative.
Best Fit
Rural & Edge-of-City Homes
Starlink's 220/30 Mbps satellite covers 100% of San Rafael including remote areas.
Low-latency satellite works where cable and fiber don't reach outer neighborhoods.
Check first: Unwired's fixed wireless covers 79% with 300/25 Mbps at lower cost.
Top ZIP-Level Insights in San Rafael
Downtown San Rafael
Sonic.net is currently the strongest option for Tech workers needing symmetrical 10 Gbps.
61% of this ZIP has Sonic.net fiber, the highest concentration in San Rafael, with Xfinity cable covering another 33%.
Terra Linda
Xfinity is currently the strongest option for Families needing reliable 2 Gbps cable.
88% of Terra Linda has Xfinity's 2 Gbps cable, the best coverage in San Rafael, but only 2% has fiber.
Marinwood
Xfinity is currently the strongest option for Households wanting multi-gig without fiber wait.
61% has Xfinity 2 Gbps cable and 21% has AT&T 5 Gbps fiber, giving Marinwood strong options.
Gerstle Park
Xfinity is currently the strongest option for Budget-conscious multi-device homes.
42% has Xfinity 2 Gbps cable, 30% has Sonic.net 10 Gbps fiber, and 15% has AT&T fiber.
Civic Center District
Xfinity is currently the strongest option for Consistent cable speeds across neighborhood.
69% covered by Xfinity 2 Gbps cable with 21% on 1.2 Gbps tier; only 7% has AT&T fiber.
Internet providers near San Rafael
Coverage can change completely a few miles down the road. If you’re moving to or shopping just outside San Rafael, check the neighboring market directly.
San Rafael Internet FAQs
What is the fastest internet provider in San Rafael?
Sonic.net offers 10 Gbps symmetrical fiber to 20% of San Rafael, concentrated in ZIP 94915 where 61% have access. AT&T's 5 Gbps fiber reaches 30% citywide, while Xfinity's 2 Gbps cable covers 74% as the most widely available high-speed option.
Can I get fiber internet in Marinwood San Rafael?
21% of Marinwood (ZIP 94903) has AT&T fiber with 5 Gbps speeds available at those addresses. The majority of Marinwood relies on Xfinity cable at 2 Gbps (covering 61%), which still delivers multi-gig performance for most households.
What is the cheapest internet in San Rafael CA?
HughesNet and Viasat satellite plans cover 100% of San Rafael with promotional starting rates typically under $50/month for basic service. Xfinity cable reaches 98.5% of the city and often has intro pricing around $30-40/month for lower-tier plans, though you should verify current promotions directly.
What internet speed do I need for working from home in San Rafael?
100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload handles video calls and file transfers for one remote worker; AT&T copper reaches 34% with these speeds. For households with multiple remote workers, target AT&T fiber (30% coverage), Sonic.net fiber (20% coverage), or Xfinity's 2 Gbps cable (74% coverage).
Does Dominican University area have fiber internet?
61% of ZIP 94915 surrounding Dominican University has Sonic.net's 10 Gbps fiber, the highest fiber concentration in San Rafael. An additional 33% of this area has Xfinity 2 Gbps cable, giving students and nearby residents strong connectivity options for campus-adjacent housing.
How We Analyze Internet in San Rafael
FCC Broadband Data
We use the FCC National Broadband Map, updated quarterly with provider-reported coverage at the census block level.
Speed Score
Our proprietary score weights technology type (fiber=100%, cable=85%, etc.) with download (70%) and upload (30%) speeds, ranked as a state percentile.
Coverage Calculation
Provider coverage shows what percentage of census blocks in San Rafael report service availability from each provider.
Data Coverage for San Rafael
How We Calculate Speed Score
Our Speed Score is a state-level percentile ranking (0-100) that shows how a provider’s service compares to all other internet options available in your state.
The Formula:
We calculate a raw performance score using:
Technology Factor × (Download Speed × 70% + Upload Speed × 30%)
Technology Factors:
Not all connections are equal. We weight each technology based on real-world reliability and performance:
- Fiber: 100% – Fastest, most reliable technology
- Cable: 85% – High speeds, shared neighborhood bandwidth
- Fixed Wireless (Licensed): 70% – Dedicated spectrum, weather-dependent
- Copper/DSL: 65% – Distance-limited, aging infrastructure
- Fixed Wireless (Unlicensed): 60% – Shared spectrum, variable performance
- Satellite (LEO): 40% – Low-earth orbit (e.g., Starlink), higher latency
- Satellite (GEO): 15% – Geostationary orbit, significant latency
Percentile Ranking:
After calculating raw scores, we rank every service option in your state by geographic coverage (census blocks served). A score of 85 means this service performs better than 85% of all internet options available in your state.
Data Source: FCC National Broadband Map data, updated quarterly.
How We Calculate Capabilities
Estimated Capabilities predict how well each internet plan supports common household activities based on speed requirements and connection type.
Rating Scale:
- Excellent – Optimal performance, handles peak usage easily
- Good – Reliable performance with minimal issues
- Fair – Functional but may experience slowdowns during heavy use
- Poor – Not recommended; expect frequent buffering or lag
How We Rate Each Category:
Streaming
Based on download speed. 4K streaming requires 25+ Mbps per stream; HD requires 5+ Mbps. We account for multiple simultaneous streams.
Multi-device
Evaluates total bandwidth capacity divided by typical household device count (phones, tablets, smart TVs, computers). Fiber and cable handle many devices better than DSL or satellite.
Gaming
Considers both upload speed (for sending game data) and latency (ping time). Fiber and cable excel here; satellite connections struggle due to inherent signal delay.
Whole Home
Assesses whether the connection can reliably serve an entire household during peak evening hours. Factors in technology type (shared vs. dedicated bandwidth) and total speed capacity.
Note: Actual performance depends on your specific location, network congestion, and equipment quality.