Ithaca, NY Internet
Internet Providers in Ithaca, NY
Compare every internet provider in Ithaca, NY: coverage from FCC filings, plan prices checked monthly, and an address check for your street.
The 30-Second Verdict
UpdatedSpectrum is the best overall, with cable speeds up to 1,000 Mbps reaching about 78% of the city. If Point Broadband Fiber Holding LLC reaches your address, it is the faster choice, with fiber speeds up to 1,000/1,000 Mbps reaching about 12% of the city. Where Spectrum does not reach, Verizon is the safe fallback, mostly fixed wireless with a 300 Mbps tier reaching about 48% of the city and an overall footprint of about 55%. In Collegetown, Spectrum is the clear local winner, while Haefele Connect, Point Broadband Fiber Holding LLC, and other fiber providers reach smaller pockets.
Around Cornell University in ZIP 14853, Spectrum leads, with Fiberspark and limited Verizon fixed wireless adding alternatives. ZIPs 14851 and 14852 are especially Spectrum-heavy, with cable reaching about 85% of each ZIP, while fiber is only a small slice. Fall Creek, Northside, and West End can change street by street, and older buildings or student apartments may still be tied to DSL or copper infrastructure. T-Mobile is worth checking as a budget fixed wireless option, with speeds up to 100 Mbps reaching about 26% of the city. Students should verify the exact address before signing up, especially for Zoom, streaming, and gaming.
Best Internet Providers in Ithaca, NY
Best plan here: Internet Gig 1 Gig — faster than 77% of all internet options in New York
- Internet Gig 1 Gig$60/mo for 12 months (new residential customers only (no Spectrum service in past 30 days); limited-time offer; not available in all areas)Cable1,000 MbpsDownload77Our score$60Per month
- Internet Premier 500 Mbps$40/mo for 12 months (new residential customers only (no Spectrum service in past 30 days); limited-time offer; not available in all areas)Cable500 MbpsDownload69Our score$40Per month
- Internet 100$30/mo for 12 months (new residential customers only (no Spectrum service in past 30 days); limited-time offer; not available in all areas)Cable100 MbpsDownload22Our score$30Per month
Source: Spectrum official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Good
Good
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
Spectrum’s headline Speed Score of 77/100 reflects a solid option for streaming, video calls, gaming, and multiple connected devices, with its Internet Gig plan offering up to 1000 Mbps download and 35 Mbps upload. That score is above Ithaca’s city average of 56, and the plan is available to 79% of the city. Because Spectrum’s cable service reaches specific addresses differently, confirm that the Gig plan is available at yours before choosing it.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Spectrum
Spectrum’s fastest option is cable with up to 1000 Mbps download and 35 Mbps upload, which is excellent for households with multiple streamers, gamers, and people working from home. Its cable plans are good options where available, reaching about 79% of the city, but availability is address-dependent, so check your address for the 1000 Mbps plan first; the 500 Mbps and 100 Mbps options may still work well for lighter needs, though 100 Mbps can feel limited for busy modern households.
Available Plans
Cable
Fiber
Best plan here: 5G Home — faster than 63% of all internet options in New York
Badge = fastest plan reaching at least 5% of the city. 1 Gig scores higher but reaches ~2%.
- 1 Gig$89.99/mo for 12 months, then $99.99/mo (w/ AutoPay & paper-free billing, new customers, credit approval required) · $200 Amazon Gift CardFiber940 MbpsDownload69Our score$89.99Per month
- 500 Mbps$74.99/mo for 12 months, then $84.99/mo (w/ AutoPay & paperless billing, new customers, in select areas) · $100 Amazon Gift CardFiber500 MbpsDownload69Our score$74.99Per month
- 5G Home$60/mo for 12 months (w/ Auto Pay & postpaid mobile unlimited plan that includes 5G Ultra Wideband; requires bundle)5G Fixed Wireless300 MbpsDownload63Our score$60Per month
- 300 Mbps$49.99/mo for 12 months (Auto Pay & paper-free billing required, new customers, Fios available in select areas) · $100 Amazon Gift CardFiber300 MbpsDownload63Our score$49.99Per month
Source: Verizon official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Below-average advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks below most options filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed; faster plans are usually listed here.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Good
Adequate
Adequate
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
Fiber is Verizon’s strongest connection type for everyday streaming, gaming, and work, with up to 940 Mbps download and 880 Mbps upload, or symmetrical speeds of up to 500 Mbps on the 500 Mbps plan. Those fiber plans have a Speed Score of 69/100 but reach only about 2% of Ithaca, while 5G Home reaches about 54% with up to 300 Mbps download and 75 Mbps upload, making the exact address important. Verizon’s overall Speed Score of 63/100 is above Ithaca’s city average of 56, so it is a competitive option where the faster fiber service is available.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Verizon
Verizon offers fiber plans with fast, symmetrical service for demanding activities, including up to 940 Mbps down and 880 Mbps up, but fiber availability is limited to about 2% of Ithaca. Its 5G Home plan reaches about 54% of the city and offers up to 300 Mbps down and 75 Mbps up, which is adequate for many households, though the address-dependent availability and required mobile bundle are worth checking before you choose it.
Available Plans
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Fiber
Point Broadband Fiber Holding LLC
Speeds up to 1,000 Mbps
Plans start at $49.99 /mo *
Speed Score: Faster than 77% of all internet options in New York
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
Point Broadband Fiber Holding LLC’s fiber reaches 11.6% of Ithaca, so availability is limited and your address may not qualify. Where available, its fiber plan offers up to 1000 Mbps download and 1000 Mbps upload, with a Speed Score of 77/100 versus the city average of 56, making it a competitive, strong option for fast and consistent service.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Point Broadband Fiber Holding LLC
Point Broadband Fiber Holding LLC reaches about 12% of Ithaca, so your chances of getting this service depend heavily on your address. Where available, its fiber plan is an excellent option for demanding internet use, offering up to 1000 Mbps both ways, but availability is limited across the city, so check your address before counting on it.
Available Plans
Fiber
Haefele Connect
Speeds up to 1,000 Mbps
Price Not listed
Speed Score: Faster than 77% of all internet options in New York
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
Fiber is a strong choice for demanding everyday use, offering up to 1000 Mbps both ways with a Speed Score of 77/100, above Ithaca’s average top-speed score, and reaching about 9% of the city. Haefele Connect’s cable plan is more limited at up to 300 Mbps download and 25 Mbps upload, with a Speed Score of 63/100. Because availability depends on your exact address, check which technology is offered before choosing, since the fiber plan provides notably better performance.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Haefele Connect
Haefele Connect’s fiber service offers excellent, symmetrical internet with up to 1000 Mbps both ways, making it a strong choice for streaming, video calls, gaming, and multiple users. That fiber plan reaches about 9% of census blocks, while its cable fallback offers up to 300 Mbps download and 25 Mbps upload in about 3%, so availability is very address-dependent and you should confirm fiber at your address before choosing it.
Available Plans
Fiber
Cable
Trumansburg Telephone Co
Speeds up to 1,000 Mbps
Price Not listed
Speed Score: Faster than 77% of all internet options in New York
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
Trumansburg Telephone Co’s fiber plan reaches about 10% of Ithaca, so your odds of getting its best service are limited by address. Where available, up to 1000 Mbps download and 1000 Mbps upload with a 77/100 Speed Score make it a strong, above-average option. Addresses served only by the copper plan get up to 10 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload with a 1/100 Speed Score, which means checking other providers first is sensible if fiber is not available.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Trumansburg Telephone Co
Trumansburg Telephone Co reaches 10.1% of Ithaca, so it is available to a relatively small share of local addresses. Its fiber plan is an excellent choice where offered, with up to 1000 Mbps both ways and coverage of about 10% of census blocks, but availability is address-dependent. The fallback copper plan offers only up to 10 Mbps down and 1 Mbps up, which may be inadequate for modern households, so check for fiber or another faster provider first.
Available Plans
Fiber
Copper
Dryden Fiber
Speeds up to 1,000 Mbps
Price Not listed
Speed Score: Faster than 77% of all internet options in New York
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
Fiber provides low-latency performance for streaming, gaming, video calls, and other demanding activities, with speeds up to 1000 Mbps both ways. Dryden Fiber’s plan has a Speed Score of 77/100 and reaches 4.8% of Ithaca, making it a strong option where available.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Dryden Fiber
Dryden Fiber’s fiber service offers excellent performance, with up to 1000 Mbps both ways for smooth streaming, video calls, gaming, and work from home. It is a strong choice where available, but coverage is limited to about 5% of Ithaca’s census blocks, so check your address before counting on it.
Available Plans
Fiber
Empire Long Distance Corporation
Speeds up to 1,000 Mbps
Price Not listed
Speed Score: Faster than 77% of all internet options in New York
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
Up to 1000 Mbps download and 100 Mbps upload can handle 4K streaming, gaming, video calls, and multiple connected devices, making Empire Long Distance Corporation’s fiber plan a top-tier option. Its Speed Score of 77/100 is strong, though this plan reaches only 3.2% of Ithaca, so confirm fiber availability at your address before signing up.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Empire Long Distance Corporation
Up to 1000 Mbps download and 100 Mbps upload on fiber is a strong option for streaming, video calls, gaming, and multiple connected devices. Empire Long Distance Corporation’s fiber reaches about 3% of Ithaca, so check your address to see whether this fast service is available.
Available Plans
Fiber
Fiberspark Inc
Speeds up to 1,000 Mbps
Price Not listed
Speed Score: Faster than 77% of all internet options in New York
SPEED SCORE
Mid-pack advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks around the middle of every option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
Fiber service offers up to 1000 Mbps download and 1000 Mbps upload, providing low-latency performance for streaming, gaming, and work from home. With a 77/100 Speed Score compared with Ithaca’s 56 average top speed score, Fiberspark is a strong option, but fiber availability reaches only 3.0% of the city, so confirm it is offered at your address.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Fiberspark Inc
Fiber is the gold-standard connection for streaming, video calls, gaming, and working from home, and Fiberspark Inc offers an excellent symmetrical plan with up to 1000 Mbps both ways. Availability is limited to about 3% of Ithaca’s census blocks, so check your address to see whether this fast fiber option is available.
Available Plans
Fiber
Speed Score: Slower than 54% of all internet options in New York
SPEED SCORE
Below-average advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks below most options filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed; faster plans are usually listed here.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Adequate
Poor
Poor
Poor
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
Frontier’s fastest listed plan offers up to 115 Mbps download and 7 Mbps upload, enough for everyday browsing, streaming, and video calls in a smaller household. It is a Copper plan with a Speed Score of 46/100 and about 2% coverage in Ithaca, meaning performance is limited compared with alternatives. Availability is address-specific, so check what other providers offer at your address first.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Frontier
Frontier’s fastest local plan offers up to 115 Mbps download and 7 Mbps upload, which can handle everyday browsing, video calls, and streaming, but it is a below-average copper connection available in only about 2% of Ithaca census blocks. Availability is highly address-dependent, and many locations may instead see slower copper plans, including up to 10 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload across about 9% of census blocks, so check for faster providers first if your household streams heavily, works from home, or has several connected devices.
Available Plans
Copper
Copper
Copper
Copper
Copper
Best plan here: T-Mobile Amplified Home Internet 500 Mbps — faster than 69% of all internet options in New York
- T-Mobile Amplified Home Internet 500 Mbps$45/mo for 12 months, then $60/mo (new Internet line, qualifying credit, postpaid voice line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid MastercardFixed Wireless500 MbpsDownload69Our score$45Per month
- T-Mobile All-In Home Internet 500 Mbps$55/mo for 12 months, then $70/mo (new Internet line, qualifying credit, postpaid voice line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid MastercardFixed Wireless500 MbpsDownload69Our score$55Per month
- T-Mobile Rely Home Internet 400 Mbps$35/mo for 12 months, then $50/mo (qualifying credit, postpaid voice line, and new Internet line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid MastercardFixed Wireless400 MbpsDownload69Our score$35Per month
Source: T-Mobile official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Below-average advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks below most options filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed; faster plans are usually listed here.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Good
Adequate
Adequate
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
T-Mobile is a reasonable fit for budget-minded households that need everyday browsing, streaming, and video calls, with fixed wireless plans offering up to 500 Mbps download and 60 Mbps upload. Its 69/100 Speed Score is above Ithaca’s city average of 56, though fixed wireless can have more variable performance than wired connections, so checking other providers at your address is worthwhile for demanding use. The 500 Mbps plans are available to about 48% of the city and require a qualifying bundle, so eligibility and pricing depend on your address and existing T-Mobile service.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About T-Mobile
T-Mobile is a practical fit for households that want affordable home internet with up to 500 Mbps download speeds, especially if they already have or want a qualifying T-Mobile voice line. Its fixed wireless service has a below-average Speed Score of 69/100 and is available to about 48% of the city on the listed plans, so performance can vary by address and you should check for faster fiber or cable options first if your household relies on heavy streaming, gaming, or multiple simultaneous users.
Available Plans
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Best plan here: AT&T Internet Air 300 Mbps — faster than 63% of all internet options in New York
- AT&T Internet Air 300 Mbps$40/mo for 12 months (new customers, no annual contract, AutoPay eligible for additional $5/mo discount)Fixed Wireless300 MbpsDownload63Our score$40Per month
Source: AT&T official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Below-average advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks below most options filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed; faster plans are usually listed here.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Good
Adequate
Adequate
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
At $40 per month for 12 months, AT&T Internet Air offers up to 300 Mbps download and 30 Mbps upload, with a Speed Score of 63/100, making it competitive in Ithaca and a reasonable value for everyday browsing, streaming, and connected devices. Because fixed wireless performance can vary by location and availability, confirm that this plan reaches your address, which is about 13% of the city, and consider checking other providers first if you need consistently low latency or heavy-duty performance.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About AT&T
At $40 per month for 12 months, AT&T Internet Air offers up to 300 Mbps download and 30 Mbps upload, making it a reasonably priced option for everyday browsing, streaming, and some work from home. Its fixed wireless technology has a below-average Speed Score of 63/100 and is available to about 13% of Ithaca, so check your address first and compare faster fiber or cable options if they are available, especially for several heavy users or demanding online activities.
Available Plans
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Best plan here: Residential Max 400 Mbps — faster than 69% of all internet options in New York
- Residential Max 400 MbpsSatellite400 MbpsDownload69Our score$130Per month
- Residential 200 MbpsSatellite200 MbpsDownload46Our score$85Per month
- Residential 100 MbpsSatellite100 MbpsDownload22Our score$55Per month
Source: Starlink official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Below-average advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks below most options filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed; faster plans are usually listed here.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Adequate
Poor
Poor
Adequate
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
Starlink uses satellite service, which can support streaming and everyday internet use but typically has higher latency than wired connections. Its Residential Max plan offers up to 400 Mbps download and 40 Mbps upload for $130/mo, with a Speed Score of 69/100, above Ithaca’s city average of 56. The plan is available to 99.9% of Ithaca, though performance and availability should be confirmed at your address, and checking other options may be worthwhile if low latency is important.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Starlink
Starlink’s satellite connection reaches nearly all of Ithaca and offers up to 400 Mbps download and 40 Mbps upload, which can support streaming, video calls, and typical household use, though satellite latency may affect gaming and other real-time activities. Its Residential Max 400 Mbps plan is available to about 100% of the city, but because satellite is generally less responsive than fiber or cable, check your address for those faster, lower-latency options first, especially if you have demanding or latency-sensitive needs.
Available Plans
Ngso Satellite
Best plan here: Fusion — slower than 78% of all internet options in New York
- Fusion$94.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $119.99/moSatellite100 MbpsDownload22Our score$94.99Per month
- Select$49.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $74.99/moSatellite50 MbpsDownload11Our score$49.99Per month
- Lite$39.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $49.99/moSatellite25 MbpsDownload2Our score$39.99Per month
Source: HughesNet official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Below-average advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks below most options filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed; faster plans are usually listed here.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Poor
Poor
Poor
Poor
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
At $94.99 per month for the first 12 months, then $119.99, HughesNet’s Fusion plan buys up to 100 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload, but its Speed Score is 22/100. Satellite service can have higher latency and more limited real-world performance, and this score is below Ithaca’s city average of 56. Fusion is available to 100% of the city, though availability at your address should still be confirmed, and it is worth checking what other technologies are offered there before choosing satellite.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About HughesNet
At $39.99 to $94.99 per month for the first 12 months, HughesNet offers up to 25 to 100 Mbps download and 3 to 5 Mbps upload, but the satellite service provides below-average value for modern heavy streaming, gaming, or work needs. The plans reach 100% of Ithaca, making them a broadly available fallback, but you should check your address for faster fiber or cable options first, since satellite can have higher latency and these speeds may feel limiting.
Available Plans
Gso Satellite
Best plan here: Viasat Essentials — slower than 79% of all internet options in New York
- Viasat EssentialsSatellite55 MbpsDownload21Our score$69.99Per month
- Viasat UnleashedSatellite34 MbpsDownload10Our score$99.99Per month
Source: Viasat Inc official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Below-average advertised speed for the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks below most options filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed; faster plans are usually listed here.
The Speed Score is the percentile of this plan’s maximum advertised download speed among every internet option filed with the FCC in this state. It is not a measured speed test: actual throughput varies by address, wiring and time of day. Enter your full address to see which plans are serviceable at your home.
EST. CAPABILITIES
Poor
Poor
Poor
Poor
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Ithaca
Viasat is a limited-performance option compared with alternatives in Ithaca, with a headline Speed Score of 21/100 versus the city average of 56. Its Viasat Essentials satellite plan offers up to 55 Mbps download and 4 Mbps upload for $69.99 per month, with availability to 100% of the city. Satellite service can have higher latency, so check what other technologies reach your specific address before choosing it.
Speeds and reach below are what the provider files with the FCC for each technology tier, by census block. The plans it actually sells here, with their own speeds and prices, are under Pricing & Plans; the two can differ.
About Viasat Inc
Viasat is mainly an adequate fallback, not a first choice, because its satellite plans offer below-average performance and can have high latency. The faster Viasat Essentials plan costs $69.99 per month for up to 55 Mbps download and 4 Mbps upload, while Viasat Unleashed costs $99.99 for up to 34 Mbps download and 4 Mbps upload, so check your address for faster fiber or cable service before choosing satellite.
Available Plans
Gso Satellite
Gso Satellite
Cheapest and Fastest Internet Plans in Ithaca
All 19 product lines from the 7 providers with published pricing here, showing the price you would be quoted today and what it reverts to.
Showing 10 of 19 plans
- StarlinkResidential Max 400 Mbps400 MbpsDownload69Our score$130Per month~99.9%CoverageSatellite
- SpectrumInternet Gig 1 Gig$60/mo for 12 months (new residential customers only (no Spectrum service in past 30 days); limited-time offer; not available in all areas)1,000 MbpsDownload77Our score$60Per month~78.5%CoverageCable
- SpectrumInternet Premier 500 Mbps$40/mo for 12 months (new residential customers only (no Spectrum service in past 30 days); limited-time offer; not available in all areas)500 MbpsDownload69Our score$40Per month~78.5%CoverageCable
- StarlinkResidential 200 Mbps200 MbpsDownload46Our score$85Per month~99.9%CoverageSatellite
- Verizon5G Home$60/mo for 12 months (w/ Auto Pay & postpaid mobile unlimited plan that includes 5G Ultra Wideband; requires bundle)300 MbpsDownload63Our score$60Per month~53.8%Coverage5G Fixed Wireless
- T-MobileT-Mobile Rely Home Internet 400 Mbps$35/mo for 12 months, then $50/mo (qualifying credit, postpaid voice line, and new Internet line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid Mastercard400 MbpsDownload69Our score$35$50Per month~47.5%CoverageFixed Wireless
- T-MobileT-Mobile Amplified Home Internet 500 Mbps$45/mo for 12 months, then $60/mo (new Internet line, qualifying credit, postpaid voice line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid Mastercard500 MbpsDownload69Our score$45$60Per month~47.5%CoverageFixed Wireless
- T-MobileT-Mobile All-In Home Internet 500 Mbps$55/mo for 12 months, then $70/mo (new Internet line, qualifying credit, postpaid voice line required; requires bundle) · $200 virtual prepaid Mastercard500 MbpsDownload69Our score$55$70Per month~47.5%CoverageFixed Wireless
- HughesNetFusion$94.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $119.99/mo100 MbpsDownload22Our score$94.99$119.99Per month~100%CoverageSatellite
- StarlinkResidential 100 Mbps100 MbpsDownload22Our score$55Per month~99.9%CoverageSatellite
Prices are the current promotional rate where one is advertised. Sourced monthly from each provider’s own site; availability varies by address.
Best Fit by Household Type in Ithaca
Best Fit
Students & Roommates
Choose Spectrum Internet 100 for $30/mo promotional pricing for 12 months, reaching about 79% of Ithaca.
Its 100 Mbps tier covers Collegetown and Cornell University ZIPs more broadly than listed alternatives.
Check first: Confirm your address, because the promotional plan is not available throughout Ithaca.
Best Fit
Remote Workers
Choose Spectrum Premier 500 Mbps where available, reaching about 79% of Ithaca.
Its cable network offers substantially more local reach than limited fiber alternatives.
Check first: Do not assume fiber-level upload performance; verify the technology and upload tier.
Best Fit
Gamers & Streamers
Choose Point Broadband fiber up to 1,000/1,000 Mbps if it reaches your address.
Its symmetric fiber tier is the fastest option, but reaches only about 12% of Ithaca.
Check first: Availability is highly address-specific, especially outside the provider's limited footprint.
Best Fit
Students & Roommates
Start with Verizon where fiber is available near campus-heavy areas.
Shared apartments need stable upload and download performance for Zoom, streaming, and concurrent device use.
Check first: Confirm your exact building is wired for the advertised plan tier before ordering.
Internet Providers by ZIP Code in Ithaca
Collegetown 14850
Spectrum is currently the strongest option for Student households and shared streaming.
Spectrum reaches about 42% of Collegetown at up to 1,000/35 Mbps, while Haefele fiber reaches about 6%.
Cornell University 14853
Spectrum is currently the strongest option for Campus-area high-speed service.
Spectrum reaches about 54% of ZIP 14853 at up to 1,000/1,000 Mbps; Fiberspark reaches about 6% with fiber.
ZIP 14851
Spectrum is currently the strongest option for Broad cable availability.
Spectrum reaches about 85% of ZIP 14851 at up to 1,000/35 Mbps, with fiber reaching about 2%.
Internet providers near Ithaca
Coverage can change completely a few miles down the road. If you’re moving to or shopping just outside Ithaca, check the neighboring market directly.
Ithaca Internet FAQs
Who is the best internet provider in Ithaca, NY?
Spectrum is the best overall provider, with cable up to 1,000 Mbps reaching about 78% of Ithaca. Point Broadband Fiber Holding LLC is faster where available, offering 1,000/1,000 Mbps fiber to about 12% of the city, so check your address before choosing.
What is the fastest internet in Ithaca, NY?
Point Broadband Fiber Holding LLC is fastest where available, with 1,000/1,000 Mbps fiber reaching about 12% of Ithaca. Spectrum is the best overall choice, offering cable up to 1,000 Mbps reaching about 78% of the city for broader availability.
Which internet provider covers the most of Ithaca, NY?
Spectrum has the largest non-satellite footprint at about 81% of Ithaca, while satellite service is available everywhere. Spectrum's cable tiers up to 1,000 Mbps reach about 78%, making it the broadest terrestrial high-speed option at local addresses.
What is the cheapest internet plan in Ithaca, NY?
Spectrum Internet 100 is the cheapest plan at $30/mo promotional pricing for 100 Mbps, reaching about 79% of Ithaca. The offer lasts 12 months for new residential customers without Spectrum service during the past 30 days and is not available in all areas.
Can I get fiber internet in Ithaca?
Point Broadband Fiber Holding LLC offers 1,000/1,000 Mbps fiber reaching about 12% of Ithaca, the largest listed fiber footprint. Other local fiber options include Haefele Connect at about 9% and Trumansburg Telephone Co at about 10%, so address checks are essential.
What internet speed do I need in Ithaca?
A 100 Mbps plan reaches about 79% of Ithaca through Spectrum and suits basic streaming, browsing, and smaller households. Larger households, remote workers, and multiple simultaneous streams should consider 500 Mbps or 1,000 Mbps tiers where the address qualifies.
What internet is available in Collegetown?
Spectrum reaches about 42% of Collegetown at up to 1,000/35 Mbps, while Haefele Connect fiber reaches about 6%. Students and roommates should verify the exact building because ZIP-level availability does not guarantee service at every Collegetown address.
How We Analyze Internet in Ithaca
FCC Broadband Data
We use the FCC National Broadband Map, updated twice a year with provider-reported coverage at the census block level.
Speed Score
A state-wide percentile of each plan’s maximum advertised download speed against every option filed with the FCC in the state, all technologies on one scale. It is not a measured speed test.
Coverage Calculation
Provider coverage shows what percentage of census blocks in Ithaca report service availability from each provider.
Data Coverage for Ithaca
How We Calculate Speed Score
The Speed Score is a state-wide percentile from 0 to 100. It answers one question: of every internet option filed with the FCC in this state, across every technology, what share is slower than this plan’s maximum advertised download speed?
What goes in:
- The plan’s maximum advertised download speed, as the provider files it with the FCC and lists it for sale.
- Every other serviceable option in the state from the FCC Broadband Data Collection, counted by the census blocks it reaches.
Speed Score = share of the state’s filed options with a lower advertised download speed
A score of 85 means this plan’s advertised speed beats 85% of the options filed in the state. Fiber, cable, DSL, fixed wireless and satellite are all on the same scale, so a 1,000 Mbps plan scores the same whoever sells it.
What it is not: a measured speed test. It does not include latency, upload speed, reliability or congestion. Real throughput at an address varies with wiring, equipment and time of day.
How providers are ordered on this page: each provider’s tier scores are averaged across the census blocks it serves, then multiplied by the share of the city it reaches. Wired providers rank ahead of wireless-only ones, and satellite last, because their filings describe a signal footprint rather than a plant. The same rule sets the title and the 30-second verdict.
Data source: FCC National Broadband Map (Broadband Data Collection), republished roughly twice a year; provider plan lists checked monthly.
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.