Reliable internet service doesn’t come cheap. The average internet bill in America is about $78 a month — and according to a recent CNET survey, Americans paid $195 more on their internet bill in 2024 than they had the previous year. Your internet bill can quickly add up, especially if your plan comes with regular price increases (which many do). While some internet providers are cheaper than others, you can still expect to pay a pretty penny for high-speed internet.
Whether you use the internet for remote work, streaming your favorite shows, online gaming or keeping up with family, it’s hard to live without a decent internet connection. We get it. To keep your budget in check and avoid overpaying for broadband, there are a few simple ways to achieve a lower internet bill.
How to get a lower internet bill
We’ll go in-depth for each option, but in summary, here are your steps to achieving a lower internet bill.
- Closely examine your internet bill
- Evaluate how much speed you really need
- Minimize your devices when possible
- Explore low-cost internet options
- Research available competitors
- Use your own equipment
- Bundle your broadband
- Negotiate with your provider
1. First things first, closely examine your internet bill
Before you can find ways to save, first figure out what you’re actually paying. It’s important to determine how much you pay for internet speed and your household’s average monthly data usage. Are you getting a good cost per Mbps for the speed your household is using? Read the fine print from your most recent bills to calculate what your internet service provider is actually charging you.
Be sure to also check out your ISP’s broadband labels, which might explain some of those hidden fees on your internet bill. The Federal Communications Commission requires that ISPs disclose these details to their customers but sometimes those broadband labels are either buried on an ISP’s website or not included. While you can’t remove some fees, you’d be surprised at how many can be eliminated if you ask. So, having this info at hand will be key when it’s time to negotiate with your provider.
