California internet providers
By
|
Edited By
Last updated: March 3, 2026
Compare plans from internet providers in California like Xfinity, Spectrum and AT&T to find the best internet for your home. Our experts help you find the right fit.
View internet plans available near you
Best internet providers in California
AT&T: AT&T: Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. Single device wired speed maximum 4.7Gbps. For more info, go to www.att.com/speed101. Plus taxes (w/ eligible Autopay & Paperless bill). Price after $10/mo AutoPay & Paperless bill discount. (Starts w/in 2 bills). Monthly State Cost Recovery Charge applies in NV, OH, TX. One time install fee may apply. Updated as of 03/03/26.
SPECTRUM: Limited time offer; subject to change; new residential customers only (no Spectrum services within past 30 days) and in good standing with Spectrum. Taxes and fees extra in select states. SPECTRUM INTERNET ADVANTAGE: Offer based on eligibility requirements. Standard rates apply after promo period. Additional charge for installation. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds (including wireless) vary and are not guaranteed. Services subject to all applicable service terms and conditions, subject to change. Not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. ©2026 Charter Communications, all rights reserved. Internet Performance: Spectrum Internet is powered by fiber and delivered to your home via HFC.
Key takeaways
- The most widely available non-satellite provider in California is AT&T, which provides serviceability to 64% of the state
- Frontier and AT&T offer the fastest internet in California, with fiber speeds up to 7,000 Mbps
- Los Angeles is the most highly populated city in California and has a median download speed of about 294 Mbps and a median upload speed of about 23 Mbps
- Spectrum and AT&T are the most widely available non-satellite providers in Los Angeles
Fastest internet in California
The fastest internet in California comes from Frontier, which offers the fastest fiber plans up to 7 Gbps, followed by AT&T Fiber with up to 4.7 Gbps. Xfinity cable internet also offers up to 2,000 Mbps, but with slower upload speeds that will vary depending on your location.
Some cities in California with fast median speeds of nearly 300 Mbps include Bakersfield, Santa Ana and Irvine. Provider availability will vary by location, so check your ZIP code to find providers available where you live.
| Provider | Starting price* | Download speed range | Connection type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frontier | $49.99/mo. | 1,000 – 7,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| AT&T Fiber | $80.00/mo.** | 1,000 – 4,700 Mbps** | Fiber |
| Xfinity | $70.00/mo. | 1,000 – 2,000 Mbps | Cable, fiber |
*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Speeds may vary. Updated as of 03/03/26.
**Plus taxes (w/ eligible Autopay & Paperless bill). Price after $10/mo discount with eligible Autopay & Paperless bill (w/in 2 bills). Monthly State Cost Recovery Charge in TX, OH, NV applies. Limited availability. May not be available in your area. Call or go to fiber.att.com to see if you qualify. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. For 5GIG, single device wired speed maximum 4.7Gbps. For more info, go to www.att.com/speed101.
Cheapest internet in California
Internet plans in California range from $30.00/mo. to $155.00/mo., depending on your chosen provider and plan, but there are a handful of providers offering cheap internet options under $50.00/mo., see table below for the best cheap internet options.
You can also consider low-cost programs like Xfinity’s Internet Essentials, Access from AT&T and Verizon Forward offer additional savings for qualifying households.
When shopping for cheap internet, always check your ZIP code since provider availability varies by address. Also, consider the value and speed of your plan rather than just the cheapest price — a faster plan may provide more value in the long run for gamers or smart home device use.
| Provider | Starting price* | Download speed | Connection type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frontier | $29.99/mo. | 200 Mbps | Fiber |
| Verizon 5G Home Internet | $35.00/mo.** with mobile plan | 25 – 300 Mbps | 5G |
| Xfinity | $40.00/mo. | 300 Mbps | Cable |
*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Speeds may vary. Updated as of 03/03/26.
**Price guarantee for 3-5 years, depending on internet plan, for new and existing myHome customers. 5G Home plan at $35/mo., 5G Home Plus plan at $45/mo. Or 5G Home Ultimate plan at $60/mo. when combined with postpaid mobile unlimited plan that includes 5G Ultra Wideband. Auto Pay & paper-free billing req’d. Mobile + Home Discount: $15/mo savings on Verizon Home Internet plans when combined with any Verizon postpaid mobile phone plan (excludes business and data-only plans). Availability varies. Subject to credit approval. © 2026 Verizon.
How much is internet per month in California?
Internet prices in California vary based on your chosen provider and plan. Prices for providers available in California can range from as low as $35.00/mo. to over $150.00/mo. The most expensive plans are generally the fastest, but the average internet user doesn’t need a provider’s fastest (and most expensive) plan. Most users will be satisfied with a low- to mid-tier internet plan, depending on the speed you need to support your connected devices and types of internet activities.
California internet provider comparison
We’ve listed some of the top internet providers in California. Compare them by coverage area, technology and starting price, but remember to check your address to find out if it’s available at your exact location.
The average cost of internet in California among the top four most available providers (AT&T, Spectrum, Hughesnet, T-Mobile) is about $44.00/mo., not including taxes and fees. However, once you factor in the speed you need, plus equipment fees, your total out-of-pocket expenses may be higher.
| Provider | Starting price* | Download speed range | Connection type | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 AT&T | $45.00/mo.** | 100 – 4,700 Mbps** | Fiber | 64% |
 T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | $30.00/mo.*** w/ Autopay and voice line. Plus taxes & fees | 87 – 498 Mbps | 5G | 57% |
 Spectrum | $30.00/mo.† | 100 – 1,000 Mbps | Cable | 46% |
 Xfinity | $40.00/mo. | 300 – 2,000 Mbps | Cable, fiber | 33% |
 Verizon 5G Home Internet | $35.00/mo.†† with mobile plan | 25 – 1,000 Mbps | 5G | 31% |
 Frontier | $29.99/mo. | 200 – 7,000 Mbps | Fiber | 13% |
 Google Fiber | $70.00/mo. | 1,000 – 8,000 Mbps | Fiber | 1% |
 Hughesnet | $39.99/mo. | Up to 100 Mbps | Satellite | 86% |
*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Speeds may vary. Updated as of 03/03/26.
**Plus taxes (w/ eligible Autopay & Paperless bill). Price after $10/mo AutoPay & Paperless bill discount. (Starts w/in 2 bills). Monthly State Cost Recovery Charge applies in NV, OH, TX. One time install fee may apply. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. For 5GIG, single device wired speed maximum 4.7Gbps. For more info, go to www.att.com/speed101.
***Savings with $20 in monthly bill credits. Limited-time; subject to change. Qualifying credit, postpaid voice line, and new Internet line required. If you have cancelled Internet lines in past 90 days, you may need to reactivate them first. Credits may take up to 2 bill cycles; credits will stop if you cancel any lines or change plans. Limit 1/account. May not be combined with some offers or discounts.
†Limited time offer; subject to change; new residential customers only (no Spectrum services within past 30 days) and in good standing with Spectrum. Taxes and fees extra in select states. SPECTRUM INTERNET ADVANTAGE: Offer based on eligibility requirements. Standard rates apply after promo period. Additional charge for installation. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds (including wireless) vary and are not guaranteed. Services subject to all applicable service terms and conditions, subject to change. Not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. ©2026 Charter Communications, all rights reserved. Internet Performance: Spectrum Internet is powered by fiber and delivered to your home via HFC.
†Limited time offer; subject to change; new residential customers only (no Spectrum services within past 30 days) and in good standing with Spectrum. Taxes and fees extra in select states. SPECTRUM INTERNET: Standard rates apply after promo period. Additional charge for installation. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds (including wireless) vary and are not guaranteed. Capable modem required for all Gig speeds. For a list of capable modems, visit Spectrum.net/modem. Services subject to all applicable service terms and conditions, subject to change. Not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. ©2026 Charter Communications, all rights reserved. Internet Performance: Spectrum Internet is powered by fiber and delivered to your home via HFC.
††Price guarantee for 3-5 years, depending on internet plan, for new and existing myHome customers. 5G Home plan at $35/mo., 5G Home Plus plan at $45/mo. Or 5G Home Ultimate plan at $60/mo. when combined with postpaid mobile unlimited plan that includes 5G Ultra Wideband. Auto Pay & paper-free billing req’d. Mobile + Home Discount: $15/mo savings on Verizon Home Internet plans when combined with any Verizon postpaid mobile phone plan (excludes business and data-only plans). Availability varies. Subject to credit approval. © 2026 Verizon.
Call for details: (844) 451-2720 (844) 451-2720
How we review internet in California
As the third-largest state in the U.S., California is divided into three regions: Northern, Southern and the Bay Area. Our broadband experts researched the top providers in each region and scored their plans by speed, price, contract requirements, data caps, perks and more.
Our methodology
We evaluate broadband providers in four categories: affordability, performance, value and customer satisfaction. Each category contains multiple sub-factors, all of which are weighted differently to impact the provider’s overall score.
For each sub-factor, we score all providers on a continuous scale of one to five, relative to the industry as a whole. Because the average download speed in America is currently 290 Mbps, for example, we assigned all plans with download speeds between 100 and 299 Mbps a score between three and four. Xfinity’s 200 Mbps plan received a 3.50 score for download speed, while Spectrum’s 500 Mbps plan got a 3.71.
We only considered standardized data points in our scoring system. More abstract data like consistency of service and brand reputation is still part of our analysis, but we opted to let our writers address them in the context of each review.
California internet provider breakdowns
Allconnect Rating
4.15 / 5
AT&T: Best fiber internet in California
AT&T offers the most accessible fiber speeds in California, up to 4,700 Mbps.* Fiber is the fastest and most reliable internet service, and with AT&T’s symmetrical fiber speeds, California residents can enjoy a consistent high-speed connection ideal for even the most intense internet activities and many connected devices.
Why California loves AT&T
- Speeds up to 4,700 Mbps*
- Available to over half the state
Things to consider about AT&T
- Plans are pricier than other ISPs
- Some areas only have a DSL connection
*Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. Single device wired speed maximum 4.7Gbps. For more info, go to www.att.com/speed101. Updated as of 03/03/26.
AT&T Customer Reviews:
Allconnect Rating
3.72 / 5
Spectrum: Best cable option
Spectrum provides 46% of California with cable, internet and home and mobile phone services.
Why California loves Spectrum
- Low equipment fees
- Cable TV packages available
- No required contracts or plan data caps
Things to consider about Spectrum
- Pricing increases in year two
Spectrum Customer Reviews:
Allconnect Rating
3.75 / 5
Xfinity: Best for cheap internet
Xfinity is one of the cheapest providers in California, with plans starting at $40.00/mo.
Why California loves Xfinity
- Wide variety of speed plans available, up to 2,000 Mbps
Things to consider about Xfinity
- Upload speeds will be slower and vary depending on your location
Xfinity Customer Reviews:
California internet statistics
Compare California’s median download speeds, availability and other key metrics to those of the U.S. Nearly 100% of California has access to the minimum recommended broadband speeds, but half the state has access to gigabit speeds, although these high-speed options tend to be clustered around urban and suburban areas and aren’t always financially accessible for every household.
| Statistic | California | U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Median download speed* | 295.55 Mbps | 285.39 Mbps |
| Median upload speed* | 39.32 Mbps | 47.86 Mbps |
| Fiber availability** | 34% | 37.3% |
| Cable availability** | 90% | 83.1% |
| 5G/fixed wireless availability** | 63% | 64.8% |
| Satellite availability** | 100% | 99.9% |
| Residents w/ speed access at/over 100/20 Mbps† | 99% | 92.2% |
| Residents w/ speed access at/over 250/25 Mbps† | 92% | 89.5% |
| Residents w/ speed access at/over 1,000/100 Mbps† | 51% | 29.8% |
*Source: Speedtest Global Index
**Source: FCC National Broadband Map
†Sources: FCC coverage maps and data, Ookla Speed Tests, internal speed test results and provider websites.
California internet customer reviews
Allconnect shares customer reviews detailing real-life experiences with our partner ISPs to help you better understand the pain points and perks of each provider.
Great speeds. Moved across town recently and had to upgrade the modem due to speeds exceeding old 1 gig modem. Internet bogs down during peak hours and drops randomly.
3/5
I started with a special rate of $52.95 for 2 years. After one year, the monthly rate rose to $59.95 then to $69.95 after the 2nd year. It’s now $75 per month. I called, customer service stated the would discount $10 per month starting in June. That hasn’t happened so I’m changing internet providers.
2/5
ATT had a great promotion and the service seems to be satisfactory. The one thing I will say is their overall communication lacked some details that should’ve been given to a new customer especially. Nothing was a deal breaker but I found myself having to ask a lot of questions. Or where I found things out later rather than at the time of the switch. The self install didn’t go as planned because my apartment had a faulty wire which they came and handled rather quickly but it was still a bit frustrating. Overall satisfied but they could do a bit better especially for a new customer
4/5
Find California internet providers by city
Are you searching for internet service in California? Whether you’re moving to California or you’ve lived there for a long time, checking out current providers’ plans in your area can save you money.
There are several internet service providers (ISPs) in California to choose from. Find your city in the following tables to find out what is available near you. We’ve included the median download speed in each city, the number of providers available and FCC data on access to 100, 250 and 1,000 Mbps.
Most California residents have access to broadband speeds, with high percentages also able to access 250 and even 1,000 Mbps. California residents have access to fiber, cable and 5G internet, with satellite internet available to almost 100% of the state with providers like Hughesnet, Viasat and Starlink.
Southern California
The average download speed in Southern California is around 334 Mbps, which is considerably above the U.S. average speed of 291 Mbps.
| City | Download speed | Upload speed | % available up to 100 Mbps | % available up to 250 Mbps | % available up to 1 Gig | # of providers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anaheim | 296.34 Mbps | 21.57 Mbps | 100% | 93% | 22% | 7 |
| Bakersfield | 325.85 Mbps | 22.08 Mbps | 100% | 93% | 25% | 9 |
| Chula Vista | 318.00 Mbps | 48.20 Mbps | 100% | 95% | 86% | 7 |
| Irvine | 314.32 Mbps | 109.69 Mbps | 100% | 94% | 83% | 8 |
| Long Beach | 309.14 Mbps | 32.98 Mbps | 100% | 95% | 65% | 7 |
| Los Angeles | 294.46 Mbps | 23.34 Mbps | 100% | 94% | 38% | 7 |
| Oakland | 271.08 Mbps | 111.58 Mbps | 100% | 100% | 92% | 10 |
| Riverside | 302.25 Mbps | 22.19 Mbps | 100% | 92% | 23% | 7 |
| San Diego | 287.52 Mbps | 57.39 Mbps | 100% | 97% | 58% | 7 |
| Santa Ana | 316.76 Mbps | 22.17 Mbps | 100% | 89% | 30% | 7 |
Northern California
The average download speed in Northern California varies on location, with San Francisco being under the U.S. average of 291 Mbps at 265 Mbps. Further north, in Redding, speeds can hit around 322 Mbps.
| City | Download speed | Upload speed | % available up to 100 Mbps | % available up to 250 Mbps | % available up to 1 Gig | # of providers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eureka | 306.05 Mbps | 36.02 Mbps | 100% | 87% | 10% | 9 |
| Fremont | 274.62 Mbps | 50.62 Mbps | 100% | 100% | 84% | 10 |
| Fresno | 303.33 Mbps | 36.90 Mbps | 100% | 98% | 51% | 9 |
| Redding | 321.94 Mbps | 19.54 Mbps | 90% | 90% | 72% | 12 |
| Sacramento | 283.92 Mbps | 81.50 Mbps | 100% | 99% | 90% | 9 |
| San Francisco | 244.14 Mbps | 40.73 Mbps | 100% | 100% | 75% | 11 |
| San Jose | 286.82 Mbps | 55.99 Mbps | 100% | 99% | 83% | 9 |
Sources: Ookla’s Speedtest.net; FCC National Broadband Map
Explore California internet providers by ZIP code
California internet provider store locations
Allconnect: Let us compare providers for you
Why should you choose Allconnect? We’re the #1 broadband marketplace in the U.S., meaning you can trust us to search, compare and order internet and TV service for your home.
Get started
California internet FAQs
What is the fastest internet provider in California?
The fastest internet providers in California are AT&T and Frontier. Speeds go up to 7,000 Mbps.
What is the cheapest internet provider in California?
Xfinity, Verizon 5G and Frontier offer internet plans under $50.00/mo. in California.
Is fiber internet available in California?
Yes, fiber internet is available in California mainly through AT&T and Frontier, but Xfinity has limited fiber availability in Sacramento and San Francisco. Cox also has some fiber services available in Santa Barbara, San Diego and Irvine.
Written by
Lisa Iscrupe
Senior Writer, Broadband & Data Content
Lisa Iscrupe is a senior writer and broadband expert specializing in internet and connectivity solut… View profile
Lisa Iscrupe’s Favorite Article
Unlimited hotspot plans from mobile carriers
Edited by
Anine Sus
Editor I
Anine Sus is an editor and publisher with Allconnect. With eight years of experience editing and wri… View profile
Anine Sus’s Favorite Article
How to negotiate your internet bill
-
Featured
![Homelessness and the digital divide: What it means and how to help]()
Homelessness and the digital divide: What it means and how to help Joe Supan — 8 min read -
Featured
![30% of Americans say their internet is too slow. Here’s how to fix it]()
30% of Americans say their internet is too slow. Here’s how to fix it Joe Supan — 4 min read -
Featured
![Looking to move to a city with fast internet? Check out the top 10 fiber cities in the U.S.]()
Looking to move to a city with fast internet? Check out the top 10 fiber cities in the U.S. Taylor Gadsden — 3 min read
Latest
-
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Frontier + Verizon: What current customers need to knowCamryn Smith — 2 min read
-
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
The best Wi-Fi routers of 2026Lisa Iscrupe — 5 min read
-
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
What are the hidden costs on a Cox bill?Robin Layton — 2 min read
