Montana is a beautiful state, but it lacks good options for fast, reliable and affordable internet. It ranks at the 50th place in Ookla’s Speedtest data of the states (and Washington, D.C.), beating only Wyoming. Most city dwellers can still access decent broadband speeds.
I fondly remember summers in Montana, fishing with my grandparents and watching deer stroll through the yard. My grandparents didn’t have internet at their home in Libby, but times have changed with fiber internet now available from Ziply. Libby is one of the lucky locales in the Treasure State with fiber access. Most of the state has to rely on cable, DSL, fixed wireless or satellite internet.
What is the best internet provider in Montana?
Spectrum is CNET’s top pick for Montana’s best internet service provider. The cable provider delivers gig-level broadband to many of the population centers in Montana. CNET examines customer service, speed, pricing and overall value before recommending the best broadband in your area. This provider offers three plans in the area; for $30, $50 and $70 a month.
Spectrum is joined by other recommendations, including CenturyLink for availability and TDS Telecom as an ISP to watch. Whether you’re moving to Montana or looking to upgrade your current broadband situation, this guide will help you navigate your ISP options.
Best internet options in Montana
Rural internet options in Montana
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Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
People who live in rural homes, ranches and farms need decent internet for work and play. That can be a challenge in some parts of Montana. Satellite internet from Starlink, Viasat or Hughesnet is a fallback, but it tends to be expensive, and speeds may be less than desirable. When it comes to wired internet, your best bet will likely be CenturyLink DSL, which often has a wider coverage area than most other alternatives. Speeds can be extremely variable by location and max out at 100Mbps.
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While some pockets of Montana have access to gig speeds and even fiber internet, Montana is near the bottom in internet speeds for the nation. State and federal investments should help connect more Montanans to fast and affordable broadband over the next few years. If fast internet is a must, look to the bigger population areas and check your options for the locations you’re considering. Chances are good you’ll at least have access to Spectrum’s gig tier.
