Raleigh, NC Internet
Internet Providers in Raleigh, NC
Compare every internet provider in Raleigh, NC: coverage from FCC filings, plan prices checked monthly, and an address check for your street.
The 30-Second Verdict
Updated| Rank | Provider | Speed Score | Coverage in Raleigh | Up to | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  SpectrumBest overall | 79 | 91% | 1,000 Mbps | $30/mo |
| 2 |  Google FiberFastest where available | 99 | 49% | 8,000 Mbps | $70/mo |
| 3 |  AT&TBroad backup | 95 | 89% | 5,000 Mbps | $35/mo |
| 4 |  Brightspeed | 21 | 5% | 100 Mbps | $65/mo |
| 5 |  Frontier | 99 | 4% | 7,000 Mbps | $29.99/mo |
| 6 |  Hotwire | 99 | 1% | – | – |
The ranking weighs each provider’s speed across everywhere it reaches. AT&T’s 95 is its fiber; in about a fifth of the area it serves, AT&T offers only DSL or Internet Air, which is why Spectrum ranks first.
Spectrum is the best overall, with cable speeds up to 1,000 Mbps reaching about 91% of Raleigh. If Google Fiber reaches your address, it is the faster choice, with fiber speeds up to 8,000 Mbps reaching about 49% of the city. AT&T is the safe fallback where Spectrum does not reach, mostly fiber, with an overall footprint of about 89% and common fiber speeds up to 5,000 Mbps reaching about 60%.
Fiber is the variable. Fiber reaches 96% of Five Points (27608) but only 72% of NC State University (27606). Find your neighborhood on the map.
Best Internet Providers in Raleigh, NC
Best plan here: Internet Gig 1 Gig — faster than 79% of all internet options in North Carolina
- 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 MbpsDownload79Our 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 MbpsDownload76Our 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 MbpsDownload21Our 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 Raleigh
Spectrum’s Internet Gig plan offers up to 1,000 Mbps download and 35 Mbps upload, enough for multiple simultaneous 4K streams, gaming, video calls, and busy connected households. With a Speed Score of 79/100, its cable service is a reliable choice and scores above Raleigh’s city average of 71. Internet Gig is available to about 91% of Raleigh, so confirm that the plan reaches your address and that the promotional price applies.
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 cable Internet Gig plan offers up to 1000 Mbps download and 35 Mbps upload, enough for multiple simultaneous 4K streams, video calls, gaming, and busy households. Its cable plans are a strong option for most modern needs and are available to about 91% of Raleigh, but availability is address-dependent, so check your exact address before choosing the slower 100 Mbps fallback.
Available Plans
Cable
Fiber
Best plan here: 8 Gig — faster than 99% of all internet options in North Carolina
- 8 GigFiber8,000 MbpsDownload99Our score$150Per month
- 5 GigFiber5,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$125Per month
- 2 GigFiber2,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$100Per month
- 1 GigFiber1,000 MbpsDownload79Our score$70Per month
Source: Google Fiber official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Among the fastest advertised speeds in the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks near the top 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 Raleigh
For households with heavy streaming, gaming, remote work, or many connected devices, Google Fiber is a top-tier option, with up to 8,000 Mbps both ways and a 99/100 Speed Score, above Raleigh’s city average of 71. The 8 Gig fiber plan is available to about 49% of Raleigh addresses, so confirm fiber availability at your specific address before choosing, though the 1 Gig plan also offers strong up to 1,000 Mbps symmetrical performance for $70 per month.
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 Google Fiber
Google Fiber is an excellent fit for households that stream heavily, work from home, game, or have many connected devices, with fiber plans offering symmetrical speeds up to 8,000 Mbps and a top Speed Score of 99/100. Its service reaches about 49% of Raleigh, with the 1 Gig and 2 Gig plans available to about 49% and the 5 Gig and 8 Gig plans to about 49%, so check your address to confirm availability and compare the plan options offered there.
Available Plans
Fiber
Fiber
Best plan here: AT&T Internet 5 GIG speed — faster than 95% of all internet options in North Carolina
- AT&T Internet 5 GIG speed$90/mo for 12 months (new AT&T Fiber customers; up to $30 discount applies for 12 months on 1Gb+ plans) · $150 Visa reward cardFiber5,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$90Per month
- AT&T Fiber 1 GIG speed$50/mo for 12 months (new AT&T Fiber customers; up to $30 off for 12 months; full plan cost due until discount starts within 3 bills) · $150 Visa reward cardFiber1,000 MbpsDownload79Our score$50Per month
- AT&T Fiber 500Mbps$50/mo for 12 months (new AT&T Fiber customers, $15/mo discount for 12 months applies after up to 3 bill cycles) · $100 Visa reward cardFiber500 MbpsDownload76Our score$50Per month
- AT&T Fiber 300Mbps$35/mo for 12 months (new customers, with AutoPay & paperless bill discount, wired connection to gateway) · $200 AT&T Visa Reward CardFiber300 MbpsDownload71Our score$35Per month
- 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 MbpsDownload71Our score$40Per month
Source: AT&T official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Among the fastest advertised speeds in the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks near the top 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 Raleigh
$90/mo for 12 months buys up to 5000 Mbps download and upload with AT&T Internet 5 GIG, earning a 95/100 Speed Score that is above Raleigh’s city average of 71 and making it a top-tier fiber option. Fiber availability varies by address, with this plan reaching about 60% of Raleigh, while AT&T Internet Air offers up to 300/30 Mbps with a 71/100 score in about 37% of the city, so verify which technology and plan your address can receive.
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
For $35 to $90 per month, AT&T offers strong value, with fiber plans providing up to 5,000 Mbps both ways and excellent to good performance, plus rewards on several plans. Fiber availability is address-dependent, ranging from about 60% for the 5 GIG plan to about 68% for the 300 Mbps, 500 Mbps, and 1 GIG plans, while Internet Air reaches about 37% and offers up to 300 Mbps download and 30 Mbps upload, so check your address for fiber first.
Available Plans
Fiber
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Copper
Copper
Copper
Fiber
Copper
Copper
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Best plan here: Brightspeed Internet up to 100 Mbps — slower than 79% of all internet options in North Carolina
- Brightspeed Internet up to 100 Mbps$65/mo for 12 months (qualifying Fiber Brightspeed customers; new customers for reward card) · $250 Reward CardDSL100 MbpsDownload21Our score$65Per month
Source: Brightspeed 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
Poor
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Raleigh
With a headline Speed Score of 21/100, Brightspeed’s up to 100 Mbps download and up to 50 Mbps upload plan is suited to basic browsing, streaming, and smaller households, but it has limited performance compared to alternatives. The score is below Raleigh’s city average of 71, and this DSL plan is available to 1% of the city. Because technology availability depends on your address, check whether Brightspeed offers a different connection type there, and consider checking other providers 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 Brightspeed
Up to 100 Mbps download and 50 Mbps upload is adequate for basic browsing, streaming, and smaller households, but it may feel limited for multiple people, heavy video calls, or large downloads. This DSL plan has a Speed Score of 21/100 and is available to about 1% of Raleigh, so check your address for faster internet options first, especially since Brightspeed’s better technology is address-dependent.
Available Plans
Fiber
Copper
Copper
Copper
Copper
Copper
Fiber
Copper
Best plan here: Fiber 7 Gig — faster than 99% of all internet options in North Carolina
- Fiber 7 Gig$124.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, maintain service 365 days for Samsung credit) · $400 Samsung / Best Buy promo codeFiber7,000 MbpsDownload99Our score$124.99Per month
- Fiber 5 Gig$104.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, Fiber 1 Gig or higher, maintain service for 365 days) · $400 Samsung / Best Buy promo codeFiber5,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$104.99Per month
- Fiber 2 Gig$79.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, Fiber 1 Gig or higher) · $400 Samsung / Best Buy promo codeFiber2,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$79.99Per month
- Fiber 1 Gig$64.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, Fiber 1 Gig plan) · $400 Best Buy promo code for Samsung productsFiber1,000 MbpsDownload79Our score$64.99Per month
- Fiber 500$44.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, Fiber 1 Gig or higher for Samsung credit) · $400 Best Buy promo code for Samsung productsFiber500 MbpsDownload76Our score$44.99Per month
- Fiber 200$29.99/mo for 12 months (new customers, Fiber 1 Gig or higher for Samsung credit) · $400 Samsung / Best Buy promo codeFiber200 MbpsDownload57Our score$29.99Per month
Source: Frontier official site · checked monthly · availability varies by address
SPEED SCORE
Among the fastest advertised speeds in the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks near the top 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 Raleigh
Frontier’s Fiber 7 Gig plan offers up to 7000 Mbps both ways, making it well suited to large households, heavy streaming, fast downloads, online gaming, and demanding uploads. Its 99/100 Speed Score is above Raleigh’s city average of 71, making this a top-tier option, but the plan is available to only 1.6% of the city, so confirm that Frontier’s fiber reaches your 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 Frontier
Frontier’s Fiber 7 Gig plan offers up to 7,000 Mbps both ways, easily handling large households, 4K streaming, gaming, video calls, and heavy uploads. It is an excellent fiber option where available, but Fiber 7 Gig reaches only about 2% of Raleigh, so check your address first, since Frontier’s fastest plans are limited to a small part of the city.
Available Plans
Copper
Fiber
Fiber
Copper
Copper
Fiber
Copper
Copper
Hotwire Communications
Speeds up to 8,000 Mbps
Price Not listed
Speed Score: Faster than 99% of all internet options in North Carolina
SPEED SCORE
Among the fastest advertised speeds in the state
This plan’s advertised maximum download ranks near the top 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 Raleigh
Fiber is an excellent choice for low-latency everyday use, with Hotwire Communications offering up to 8,000 Mbps both ways on its top-tier 99/100 plan. Availability is highly address-dependent because Hotwire’s Raleigh coverage is limited, so check your address to confirm whether this fiber service reaches you.
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 Hotwire Communications
Hotwire Communications offers fiber service with excellent performance for demanding activities such as streaming, gaming, and working from home, including speeds up to 8,000 Mbps both ways. Availability is highly address-dependent because its Raleigh fiber footprint is limited, so check your exact address to see whether one of these fast plans is available.
Available Plans
Fiber
Fiber
Fiber
Fiber
Fiber
Best plan here: 5G Home — faster than 71% of all internet options in North Carolina
- 5G Home$60/mo for 12 months (w/ Auto Pay & postpaid mobile unlimited plan that includes 5G Ultra Wideband; requires bundle)5G Fixed Wireless300 MbpsDownload71Our score$60Per month
Source: Verizon 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
Good
Adequate
Adequate
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Raleigh
Verizon’s 5G Home fixed wireless service offers up to 300 Mbps download and 75 Mbps upload, making it adequate for everyday browsing, streaming, and work, though performance can vary more than wired connections. Its Speed Score of 71/100 matches Raleigh’s city average, so it is a reasonable rather than standout choice. Service reaches about 62% of Raleigh, so check your address for availability and expect the best real-world fit to depend on local signal conditions.
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’s 5G fixed wireless service offers up to 300 Mbps download and 75 Mbps upload, which is a good fit for streaming, video calls, and typical household use, though performance can vary with network conditions. It reaches about 62% of Raleigh, and availability is address-dependent, so check your address and compare fiber or cable options first if you need the most consistent performance or have a busy connected home.
Available Plans
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Best plan here: T-Mobile Amplified Home Internet 500 Mbps — faster than 76% of all internet options in North Carolina
- 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 MbpsDownload76Our 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 MbpsDownload76Our 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 MbpsDownload76Our score$35Per month
Source: T-Mobile 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
Good
Adequate
Adequate
Good
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Raleigh
Households seeking affordable internet for streaming, browsing, and everyday work may find T-Mobile a competitive choice, with fixed wireless plans offering up to 500 Mbps download and 60 Mbps upload and a Speed Score of 76/100, above Raleigh’s city average of 71. Fixed wireless is generally adequate, though performance and latency can vary more than fiber or cable, so it is worth checking what reaches your address. The 500 Mbps plans are available to about 78% of Raleigh, and the best plan for you depends on address availability and whether bundle requirements fit your budget.
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 good fit for households that want reasonably fast internet at a low introductory price, with fixed wireless plans offering up to 500 Mbps download and a good 76/100 Speed Score. The 500 Mbps options are available to about 78% of Raleigh, but performance can vary by address, so check eligibility and compare wired alternatives before signing up, especially if your household needs consistently strong service for heavy streaming, gaming, or work from home.
Available Plans
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Licensed Fixed Wireless
Best plan here: Residential Max 400 Mbps — faster than 76% of all internet options in North Carolina
- Residential Max 400 MbpsSatellite400 MbpsDownload76Our score$130Per month
- Residential 200 MbpsSatellite200 MbpsDownload57Our score$85Per month
- Residential 100 MbpsSatellite100 MbpsDownload21Our score$55Per month
Source: Starlink 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
Adequate
Poor
Poor
Adequate
THE TAKEAWAY
Our recommendation for Raleigh
Starlink’s satellite service offers broad reach, but its higher latency can make gaming and video calls less responsive than wired connections. The Residential Max plan provides up to 400 Mbps download and 40 Mbps upload for a 76/100 Speed Score, above Raleigh’s city average of 71, and is available to 100.0% of the city, though satellite’s limitations make it worth checking other options available 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 Starlink
Starlink uses satellite internet, offering broad availability and enough speed for streaming, video calls, and everyday use, though satellite connections can have higher latency than cable or fiber. Its Residential Max plan offers up to 400 Mbps download and 40 Mbps upload for $130 per month, with a Speed Score of 76/100 and availability to 100% of Raleigh, making it a solid option where faster fiber or cable service is not available. Check your address for those options first, since they typically provide a better experience for gaming and other latency-sensitive needs.
Available Plans
Ngso Satellite
Best plan here: Viasat Essentials — slower than 81% of all internet options in North Carolina
- Viasat EssentialsSatellite55 MbpsDownload19Our score$69.99Per month
- Viasat UnleashedSatellite34 MbpsDownload15Our 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 Raleigh
Viasat is a limited-performance option compared with alternatives in Raleigh, with a headline Speed Score of 19/100 versus the city average of 71. Its Viasat Essentials satellite plan offers up to 55 Mbps download and 4 Mbps upload for $69.99 per month, with availability at 100% of the city, but satellite’s higher latency can affect gaming, video calls, and other real-time uses. Check what other providers offer at your specific address before choosing, especially if you need stronger everyday 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 Viasat Inc
Viasat Inc is a reliable coverage option, but it should be a backup choice if faster internet is available at your address. Its Viasat Essentials satellite plan offers up to 55 Mbps download and 4 Mbps upload for $69.99 per month and reaches 100% of Raleigh, while Viasat Unleashed offers up to 34 Mbps download and 4 Mbps upload for $99.99; these below-average satellite speeds may feel limiting for streaming, gaming, and multiple users, so check for fiber or cable first.
Available Plans
Gso Satellite
Best plan here: Fusion — slower than 79% of all internet options in North Carolina
- Fusion$94.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $119.99/moSatellite100 MbpsDownload21Our score$94.99Per month
- Select$49.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $74.99/moSatellite50 MbpsDownload16Our score$49.99Per month
- Lite$39.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $49.99/moSatellite25 MbpsDownload6Our 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 Raleigh
At $94.99/mo for the first 12 months, then $119.99/mo, HughesNet’s Fusion plan buys up to 100 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload, but its satellite service has a Speed Score of 21/100. That is below the city average of 71, so it offers limited performance compared with other technologies for demanding streaming, gaming, and work needs. Fusion is available to 100.0% of Raleigh, but availability and the best technology can vary by address, so check what else is available at yours before choosing.
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 speeds, but its satellite service has below-average performance and may feel limited for modern households. All three plans are available to 100% of Raleigh, yet you should check your address for faster fiber or cable options first, especially for streaming, gaming, video calls, or multiple users, since HughesNet is mainly a fallback where those technologies are unavailable.
Available Plans
Gso Satellite
Internet Provider Reviews in Raleigh, NC
We read 336 recent Google reviews of Raleigh listings for AT&T and Spectrum and sorted each one by what it is about. Store visits and phone-plan reviews are set aside.
What AT&T customers report
Billing
Mixed
10% mention
Support
Mixed
24% mention
Installation
Good
6% mention
“Called in because I needed new WiFi. Spoke to JD over the phone and he told me to go ahead and come in. He had the transaction done and my new equipment in hand in about 10-15 min. Highly recommend JD”
“If you want internet that goes out no less than 10 times a day, an internet company that leaks your information the day you sign up, and a non-working Smart Home Manager app to try and fix your never working internet, you’ve come to the right place. Used their service multiple times and have never had it stay on for 24 hours straight.”
What Spectrum customers report
Outages
Very poor
9% mention
Speed
Very poor
5% mention
Billing
Poor
14% mention
Support
Very poor
56% mention
Equipment
Poor
42% mention
“Lawrence was incredibly sweet and helped me and my dad get home Internet and two lines for a very cheap price! He was very patient even though I didn’t understand some things, and it took the time to properly explain things.10/10”
“Always goes out every single five minutes”
Reviews are shown exactly as posted on Google and link to the listing they came from. Star averages and counts are Google’s; the service rating and the subject grades are our reading of each review, refreshed monthly. How we do this.
Cheapest and Fastest Internet Plans in Raleigh
All 31 product lines from the 10 providers with published pricing here, showing the price you would be quoted today and what it reverts to.
Showing 10 of 31 plans
- StarlinkResidential Max 400 Mbps400 MbpsDownload76Our score$130Per month~100%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 MbpsDownload79Our score$60Per month~90.8%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 MbpsDownload76Our score$40Per month~90.8%CoverageCable
- 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 MbpsDownload76Our score$35$50Per month~77.8%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 MbpsDownload76Our score$45$60Per month~77.8%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 MbpsDownload76Our score$55$70Per month~77.8%CoverageFixed Wireless
- StarlinkResidential 200 Mbps200 MbpsDownload57Our score$85Per month~100%CoverageSatellite
- AT&TAT&T Internet 5 GIG speed$90/mo for 12 months (new AT&T Fiber customers; up to $30 discount applies for 12 months on 1Gb+ plans) · $150 Visa reward card5,000 MbpsDownload95Our score$90Per month~59.8%CoverageFiber
- AT&TAT&T Fiber 1 GIG speed$50/mo for 12 months (new AT&T Fiber customers; up to $30 off for 12 months; full plan cost due until discount starts within 3 bills) · $150 Visa reward card1,000 MbpsDownload79Our score$50Per month~68.3%CoverageFiber
- AT&TAT&T Fiber 500Mbps$50/mo for 12 months (new AT&T Fiber customers, $15/mo discount for 12 months applies after up to 3 bill cycles) · $100 Visa reward card500 MbpsDownload76Our score$50Per month~68.3%CoverageFiber
Prices are the current promotional rate where one is advertised. Sourced monthly from each provider’s own site; availability varies by address.
Compare Raleigh providers head-to-head
The matchup many Raleigh households compare. Green marks the better number.
AT&T FiberAT&T Fiber wins on top speed, gig price, upload and reviews; Spectrum wins on reach and starting price.
Best Fit by Household Type in Raleigh
Best Fit
Students & Roommates
Choose Spectrum Internet 100 for 100 Mbps where its cable network reaches about 91% of Raleigh.
Spectrum reaches about 91% citywide, including 14% of ZIP 27607 near North Carolina State University.
Check first: Confirm the address because Spectrum does not reach every Raleigh home.
Best Fit
Remote Workers
Choose AT&T Fiber 1 GIG where available, reaching about 68% of Raleigh.
AT&T's fiber offers 1,000 Mbps service across about 68% of the city.
Check first: AT&T's 5,000 Mbps fiber tier reaches only about 60% of Raleigh.
Best Fit
Gamers & Streamers
Choose Google Fiber 8 Gig where available, reaching about 49% of Raleigh.
Google Fiber provides 8,000/8,000 Mbps fiber service across about 49% of the city.
Check first: Check availability carefully because Google Fiber reaches about half of Raleigh.
Best Fit
Rural & Edge-of-City Homes
Choose Starlink when wired providers miss the address; its service is available everywhere in Raleigh.
Starlink offers 100, 200, and 400 Mbps plans available everywhere in the city.
Check first: Satellite service is broadly available, but wired alternatives require address-level confirmation.
Internet Providers by ZIP Code and Neighborhood in Raleigh
Almost every block in Raleigh can get Spectrum. What changes from one neighborhood to the next is fiber. Tap a ZIP code on the map, or type yours.
Blocks with fiber50%65%80%90%
All of Raleigh
80% of the city can get fiber
- Spectrumcable91%
- AT&Tfiber68%
- Google Fiberfiber49%
- Brightspeedfiber2%
76% of the city can choose between two or more cable or fiber providers.
All 15 residential ZIP codes in Raleigh
| ZIP | Neighborhoods | Any fiber | Spectrum cable | AT&T Fiber | Google Fiber | 2+ choices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27601 | Downtown Raleigh, Moore Square, Shaw University | 78% | 82% | 72% | 60% | 72% |
| 27603 | Fuller Heights, Renaissance Park, Swift Creek | 72% | 87% | 66% | 35% | 68% |
| 27604 | Longview, Wilders Grove, Brentwood | 80% | 86% | 76% | 53% | 75% |
| 27605 | Cameron Park, Glenwood South, Boylan Heights | 92% | 95% | 85% | 45% | 89% |
| 27606 | NC State University, Avent Ferry, Farrington Woods | 72% | 89% | 58% | 46% | 68% |
| 27607 | Meredith College, Wade Avenue, Ridgewood | 85% | 91% | 79% | 42% | 81% |
| 27608 | Five Points, Hayes Barton, Bloomsbury | 96% | 95% | 94% | 19% | 93% |
| 27609 | North Hills, Midtown, Drewry Hills | 87% | 89% | 79% | 62% | 82% |
| 27610 | Southeast Raleigh, Battery Heights, Rochester Heights | 81% | 90% | 74% | 55% | 77% |
| 27612 | Crabtree Valley, Umstead Park area, Lake Boone | 87% | 95% | 78% | 58% | 84% |
| 27613 | Leesville, Bayleaf, Stonehenge | 84% | 94% | 67% | 54% | 81% |
| 27614 | Wakefield, Falls River, Bedford | 77% | 92% | 63% | 42% | 74% |
| 27615 | North Ridge, Wakefield border, Bent Tree | 80% | 89% | 74% | 52% | 76% |
| 27616 | Northeast Raleigh, Wakefield, Forestville | 77% | 90% | 66% | 47% | 73% |
| 27617 | Brier Creek, Northwest Raleigh, Umstead area | 77% | 86% | 37% | 55% | 72% |
Share of each ZIP’s census blocks where the provider files that technology with the FCC; DSL and fixed wireless are not counted as fiber. Neighborhood names are approximate.
Internet providers near Raleigh
Coverage can change completely a few miles down the road. If you’re moving to or shopping just outside Raleigh, check the neighboring market directly.
Raleigh Internet FAQs
Who is the best internet provider in Raleigh, NC?
Spectrum is Raleigh's best overall provider, with cable up to 1,000 Mbps reaching about 91% of the city. If Google Fiber reaches your address, it is the faster choice, offering up to 8,000/8,000 Mbps across about 49% of Raleigh.
What is the fastest internet in Raleigh, NC?
Google Fiber is the fastest where available, offering 8,000/8,000 Mbps fiber across about 49% of Raleigh. Spectrum is the best overall option, with 1,000 Mbps cable service reaching about 91% of the city.
Which internet provider covers the most of Raleigh, NC?
Spectrum covers the most Raleigh addresses among non-satellite providers, reaching about 91% of the city. Satellite services are available everywhere, while Spectrum's cable plans reach about 91% and should still be verified at your address.
What is the cheapest internet plan in Raleigh, NC?
Frontier Fiber 200 is the cheapest city plan at $29.99 per month for 200 Mbps, reaching about 2% of Raleigh; that promotional rate lasts 12 months for new customers. The offer requires Fiber 1 Gig or higher for Samsung credit, so verify eligibility at your address.
Can I get fiber internet in Raleigh?
Yes, Google Fiber reaches about 49% of Raleigh with fiber plans up to 8,000/8,000 Mbps, while AT&T's 5,000/5,000 Mbps fiber reaches about 60%. Fiber availability varies by address, so a provider's overall city footprint does not guarantee service at your home.
What internet speed do I need in Raleigh?
A 1,000 Mbps plan is available from Spectrum across about 91% of Raleigh and from Google Fiber across about 49%. That tier suits households with multiple streams, remote work, and gaming, while lighter use can consider lower-speed plans where available.
Is Google Fiber available in North Hills?
Google Fiber reaches about 73% of North Hills in ZIP 27609, with service up to 8,000/8,000 Mbps where available. That makes North Hills one of Raleigh's strongest areas for Google Fiber, but the exact address still determines eligibility.
Is AT&T Fiber better than Spectrum in Raleigh?
AT&T Fiber's 1 Gig plan is $50/mo with 1,000 Mbps upload; Spectrum's is $60/mo with 35 Mbps upload. AT&T Fiber sells up to 5,000 Mbps here and Spectrum up to 1,000 Mbps. Spectrum reaches more of Raleigh (about 91% vs 68%), so check which one your address gets.
Is Starlink worth it in Raleigh?
Rarely. Starlink starts at $55/mo, and cable or fiber reaches about 94% of Raleigh. It makes the most sense at an address with no wired or 5G home internet option.
Is $100 a month a lot for internet in Raleigh?
For most homes, yes. A 1 Gig plan in Raleigh costs $50 (AT&T), $60 (Spectrum), $70 (Google Fiber) a month in our latest price check. If you pay more than $80 for a gig, your promo price may have ended.
How We Analyze Internet in Raleigh
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 Raleigh report service availability from each provider.
Data Coverage for Raleigh
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.