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When exploring rural internet options, satellite internet is the real MVP because it’s everywhere. No matter how secluded your area of residence, you can rely on satellite internet providers to keep you connected.
That said, fixed wireless and 5G home internet are also gaining popularity among rural neighborhoods. While conventional cable and fiber internet service is limited in rural/remote areas, there’s still a chance your household qualifies for a wired connection.
Without further delay, let’s talk about the best rural internet providers in 2025.
Top 5 Rural Internet Providers 2025
Many internet service providers (ISPs) are expanding their networks to rural and remote areas; hence, obtaining a decent internet connection in an isolated part of the country isn’t too much of a hassle anymore.
Depending on your location, you may fall under the coverage area of a few, if not all, of our top picks:
| ISP | Connection Type | Download Speed Range | Starting Price | How to Order |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Satellite | Up to 100 Mbps1 | $39.99/mo.2 | CALL NOW |
 | Satellite | 25Mbps – 150 Mbps | Varies by location | CALL NOW |
 | 5G Home Internet | Up to 300 Mbps | $35/mo.3 | CALL NOW |
 | Cable | Up to 300 Mbps – 1000 Mbps | $55/mo.4 | CALL NOW |
 | Fiber | 100 Mbps – 2 Gbps | $24.99/mo.5 (subject to availability) | CALL NOW |
2 For 12 months‡
Minimum term required. Early service termination fees apply. Monthly Fee reflects the applied $5 savings for ACH enrollment. Offer may vary by geographic area.
3 w/ Auto Pay & any Verizon mobile phone plan See Details
4 For 60 mos., no term contract. Taxes and equipment not included. Incl. up to $10/mo. auto-pay & paperless bill discount. See Broadband Facts: https://www.xfinity.com/broadband-labels
Or go all in for 1 year — Same everything for 1 year starting at $40/mo
5 Price includes a $5.00/mo. discount with AutoPay, option to disable at the next step. Prices may change after the promotional period ends. Taxes & fees extra.
1. Hughesnet
Since satellite internet is the most practical rural internet option, let’s start with Hughesnet. This satellite internet provider offers plans with unlimited data and advanced built-in Wi-Fi. It can take care of all your day-to-day streaming, remote work, and e-learning needs in any part of the country.
PROS
- Widespread availability in rural America
- Flexible data options
- Year-round promotions/discounts for new customers
- 24/7 customer support
CONS
- Speeds slow down during peak usage hours
- High upfront cost (installation & equipment)
- Term contract – early termination fees apply
2. Viasat
Viasat can deliver higher download speeds, and customers are not required to enter a contract, which offers more flexibility. It is a popular rural internet service in areas that do not have access to high-speed wired broadband. Additionally, it offers a variety of add-ons, which include voice service, advanced cybersecurity, and priority customer support.
PROS
- Nationwide coverage
- No data caps or contracts
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Standard professional installation is free
CONS
- Plans and pricing vary by location
- Slower speeds during network congestion
- Expensive compared to traditional broadband services
3. Verizon 5G Home Internet
Verizon 5G Home Internet can deliver better download + upload speeds and lower latency than satellite internet. Besides that, it’s cheaper, and the wireless plug-and-play setup adds to your convenience. Verizon frequently features special deals for new customers, so you can save big or claim a freebie.
PROS
- No annual contracts
- No data limits
- Quick and easy setup
- Wireless infrastructure
- Special offers
CONS
- Limited coverage in rural areas
- Inconsistent speeds
- Overall performance is susceptible to weather, signal interference, and physical obstacles
4. Xfinity
Xfinity is one of the ISPs with the largest footprint across the United States, so you might just qualify for a cable connection. With Xfinity, you can experience reliable connectivity, near-gigabit speeds, and ultra-low latency. The ISP offers a diverse range of internet plans to serve households with varying budgets and internet requirements.
PROS
- Variety of plans
- Competitive pricing
- Choice of 1-year or 5-year price guarantee
- High download speeds + low latency
- 24/7 customer service
- Bundling options
- Generous data cap
CONS
- Services are concentrated in urban/suburban areas
- Unlimited plans cost extra
5. Kinetic
Kinetic is among the fiber internet providers that have extended their services to select rural areas. This ISP offers budget-friendly fiber-backed plans with unlimited data, making it ideal for gamers and streamers in remote regions. If you sign up now, you may qualify for an exclusive bonus offer - get up to $200 reward card (promotional offers/deals are subject to change).
PROS
- High upload and download speeds
- Contract-less plans
- Unlimited data
- FREE Whole Home Wi-Fi Setup
- Affordable future-ready plans
CONS
- Limited availability
- Potential price hike after promotional period
Quick Comparison of Top Rural ISPs
| Internet Provider | Gigabit Download Speed | High Upload Speed | Low Latency | Rural Availability | Reliability | Overall Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hughesnet | ✖ | ✖ | ✖ | Excellent | Moderate | Relatively expensive |
| Viasat | ✖ | ✖ | ✖ | Excellent | Moderate | Relatively expensive |
| Verizon 5G | ✖ | ✖ | ✔ | Limited | Good | Economical |
| Xfinity | ✔ | ✖ | ✔ | Limited | High | Budget-friendly |
| Kinetic | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | Limited | High | Budget-friendly |
Other Rural Internet Options
Given that cable and fiber internet services are limited in rural/remote areas, you may consider a DSL connection. Although DSL is outdated and largely replaced by cable/fiber-optic technology in urban areas, it is still a feasible option for rural connectivity.
DSL can offer download speeds up to 100 Mbps and a more reliable connection as opposed to wireless internet options. If you’re wondering how DSL compares to satellite and fiber internet, check out the resources below:
In case you don’t have any form of wired broadband in your area, and you require a cheaper alternative to satellite connectivity, you may rely on cellular technology. As long as you have consistent cellular service in your area, you can use mobile data on multiple devices via hotspot functionality.
Myths & Misconceptions about Satellite Internet
Perhaps satellite connectivity is the only feasible internet option for residential use in your area. In this scenario, you may have concerns about its reliability, considering various misconceptions around the technology; hence, let’s bust these myths once and for all:
1. Satellite Internet is Highly Unpredictable
Despite popular beliefs, satellite internet is not frequently unstable or inconsistent in performance. You may experience fluctuations in speed during extreme weather conditions, but otherwise, you can enjoy decent connectivity and execute day-to-day online tasks with ease.
2. Satellite Internet has severe Latency Issues
While the latency of satellite internet is relatively high, it does not interfere with typical online activities, like browsing, streaming, sending/receiving emails, etc. Lag is only noticeable with high-bandwidth real-time applications, such as multiplayer gaming and video conferencing.
3. Satellite Internet is Unaffordable
Do not believe rumors about satellite internet being far too expensive for the average household. You can easily get an internet plan for roughly $50 per month, which is pretty standard. The one-time high upfront cost is associated with specialized equipment, but a leasing option can help break it down into bite-sized installments.
Finale: Choosing Your Rural Internet
When choosing your rural internet provider, the key factors to consider are:
- Ease of access/availability
- Long-term cost
- Typical speeds
- Data allowance
Satellite internet is number one in terms of availability, but any form of wired broadband (including DSL) is recommended if easily accessible. Mobile data works for individuals with light internet usage, whereas fixed wireless or 5G home internet is best for multiple users within a household.
FAQs
Why are rural internet options limited?
Building internet infrastructures demands high financial investment, which is justified by high population density in an area. Rural or remote areas have fewer inhabitants, so the isn’t worthwhile for internet providers.
Which is the best rural internet provider in the US?
Viasat, Hughesnet, and Starlink are the most popular rural internet providers, and all three offer satellite connectivity.
What type of internet connection is best for rural areas?
Fiber and cable internet connections are best for rural areas. However, as their availability is limited, satellite, DSL, and cellular internet are more practical for rural connectivity.
