New Orleans, LA Satellite Internet Guide: Best Plans & Providers
Across New Orleans and the broader Gulf Coast, 3 satellite internet providers offer connectivity solutions for every budget and need. This mid-size city of 383,997 benefits from both legacy GEO satellite services and newer LEO constellations that have dramatically improved satellite internet performance. Plans start at $64.99/mo with no address restrictions.
For most New Orleans households, we recommend Starlink for its low-latency LEO satellite technology (20-40ms), delivering 25-100 Mbps at $120/mo with unlimited data. For budget-conscious households, HughesNet Select at $64.99/mo offers reliable connectivity.
Satellite Internet Providers in New Orleans at a Glance
The following table summarizes every satellite internet provider available to New Orleans, LA residents in 2025, along with key plan details and coverage information.
| Provider | Technology | Starting Price | Max Speed | Data Cap | Orbit | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HughesNet | Satellite | $64.99/mo | 25 Mbps | 100-200 GB | GEO | 100.0% |
| Viasat | Satellite | $99.99/mo | 300 Mbps | Unlimited | GEO + LEO | 100.0% |
| Starlink | Satellite (LEO) | $120/mo | 220 Mbps | Unlimited | LEO | 99.9% |
HughesNet Satellite Internet in New Orleans
HughesNet's satellite internet platform serves all of New Orleans, LA through its network of GEO satellites. With plans starting at $64.99/mo, HughesNet offers the lowest entry price among satellite providers available to New Orleans's 383,997 residents, though its speeds max out at 25 Mbps compared to faster alternatives.
HughesNet Plans Available in New Orleans
| Plan | Download Speed | Price | Data | Technology |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Select | 15 Mbps | $64.99/mo | 100 GB | GEO |
| Elite | 25 Mbps | $79.99/mo | 200 GB | GEO |
| Fusion | 25 Mbps | $94.99/mo | 200 GB + low-latency | GEO + LEO |
HughesNet's data policies in New Orleans work on a soft-cap system. Once you exceed your monthly data allowance, speeds slow to around 1-3 Mbps rather than cutting off entirely. All plans include a 50 GB bonus zone between 2-8 AM local time in LA, which is useful for scheduling large downloads or system updates.
Call HughesNet for plans in New Orleans: 1-855-543-5405
Viasat Satellite Internet in New Orleans
Viasat's satellite internet service in New Orleans, LA delivers premium broadband with speeds rivaling many wired connections. The provider's Unleashed plan lineup offers New Orleans residents unlimited data on all tiers, addressing one of the most common complaints about traditional satellite internet: data caps.
Viasat Plans Available in New Orleans
| Plan | Download Speed | Price | Data | Technology |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unleashed 100 | 100 Mbps | $99.99/mo | Unlimited (priority tier) | GEO |
| Unleashed 200 | 200 Mbps | $149.99/mo | Unlimited | GEO + LEO |
| Unleashed 300 | 300 Mbps | $199.99/mo | Unlimited premium | GEO + LEO |
Viasat's ViaSat-3 satellite constellation brings increased capacity to New Orleans and the broader Gulf Coast. This next-generation system supports the provider's faster speed tiers and helps maintain performance during peak usage periods. For New Orleans subscribers, this means more consistent speeds throughout the day.
Call Viasat for New Orleans plans: 1-855-463-9333
Starlink LEO Satellite Internet in New Orleans
Starlink has rapidly become a popular satellite internet choice in New Orleans, LA, thanks to its LEO technology that dramatically cuts latency compared to traditional satellite services. With over 6,000 satellites in orbit, Starlink's network provides robust coverage across Louisiana and delivers meaningful broadband to New Orleans's 383,997 residents.
Starlink Plans Available in New Orleans
| Plan | Download Speed | Price | Data | Technology |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 25-100 Mbps | $120/mo | Unlimited (1 TB priority) | LEO |
| Priority | 40-220 Mbps | $250/mo | Unlimited (40 GB priority) | LEO |
In terms of reliability, Starlink in New Orleans typically achieves 99%+ uptime outside of severe weather events. The humid subtropical conditions in Louisiana have minimal impact on LEO satellite signals compared to GEO services, as the shorter signal path is less susceptible to atmospheric interference during New Orleans's weather patterns.
AT&T Internet as a Satellite Alternative in New Orleans
Before choosing satellite internet in New Orleans, consider AT&T Internet with their Fiber, Fixed Wireless, DSL service covering 79.8% of the area. AT&T Internet generally provides lower latency and may offer competitive pricing compared to satellite providers serving New Orleans.
Call AT&T Internet for service in New Orleans: 1-855-850-5977
Call Spectrum for service in New Orleans: 1-844-481-5997
Call Cox Internet for service in New Orleans: 1-855-342-0684
Call T-Mobile for service in New Orleans: 1-844-275-9311
Call Verizon Fios for service in New Orleans: 1-855-387-1456
LEO vs GEO Satellite Technology: What New Orleans Residents Need to Know
Satellite internet in New Orleans comes in two distinct technology flavors. Traditional GEO satellite internet from HughesNet and Viasat uses high-altitude satellites that provide wide coverage from a single orbital position, but the extreme distance produces noticeable delay. Starlink's LEO constellation trades simplicity for performance, using thousands of fast-moving satellites to deliver low-latency internet to New Orleans subscribers.
Satellite Latency Comparison for New Orleans Residents
| Technology | Orbit Altitude | Typical Latency | Best For | Providers in Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEO Satellite | 22,236 miles | 600-800ms | Streaming, email, web browsing | HughesNet, Viasat |
| LEO Satellite | 340 miles | 20-40ms | Video calls, gaming, real-time apps | Starlink |
| Hybrid (GEO+LEO) | Mixed | 100-300ms | General use, improved browsing | HughesNet Fusion, Viasat Unleashed 200/300 |
| Wired (Cable, DSL, Fixed Wireless, Fiber) | Ground-based | 5-30ms | All applications | AT&T Internet, Spectrum, Cox Internet |
Satellite Internet Data Caps in New Orleans
Managing data on satellite internet in New Orleans requires awareness of each provider's policies. HughesNet offers a bonus zone (2-8 AM LA time) for large downloads, effectively extending your data allowance. Viasat's Unleashed plans remove hard caps entirely, though heavy users during peak hours may see temporary speed adjustments. Starlink provides generous 1 TB priority data suitable for most New Orleans families.
How New Orleans Weather Affects Satellite Internet
Weather sensitivity is a practical concern for satellite internet users in New Orleans. The humid subtropical weather patterns in Louisiana can occasionally interfere with satellite signals, particularly during heavy rain or dense cloud cover. GEO satellites like those used by HughesNet are more affected due to the longer signal path (22,236 miles through the atmosphere). Starlink's LEO satellites, orbiting at just 340 miles, experience less weather-related disruption, though severe storms can still impact connectivity.
Satellite Internet vs Local Alternatives in New Orleans
While satellite internet provides universal coverage in New Orleans, residents within the footprint of wired providers may want to compare their options. The following table shows how satellite internet stacks up against the local wired and fixed wireless alternatives available in New Orleans, LA.
| Provider | Technology | Coverage in City | Typical Latency | Best Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HughesNet | GEO Satellite | 100.0% | 600-800ms | 25 Mbps |
| Viasat | GEO + LEO Satellite | 100.0% | 200-600ms | 300 Mbps |
| Starlink | LEO Satellite | 99.9% | 20-40ms | 220 Mbps |
| AT&T Internet | Fiber, Fixed Wireless, DSL | 79.8% | 5-15ms | 1 Gbps+ |
| Spectrum | Cable | 18.2% | 10-30ms | 500 Mbps |
| Cox Internet | Cable, Fiber | 66.1% | 5-15ms | 1 Gbps+ |
| T-Mobile | 5G, Fixed Wireless, Mobile | 70.8% | 25-50ms | 300 Mbps |
| Verizon Fios | Fiber | 41.5% | 5-15ms | 1 Gbps+ |
| Verizon 5G Home | 5G | 41.5% | 25-50ms | 300 Mbps |
Satellite internet makes the most sense for New Orleans residents who live outside the coverage areas of providers like AT&T Internet. If your address shows availability for fiber or cable service, those technologies will typically provide better performance and value. However, satellite internet serves as an excellent backup option and is the only choice for addresses in New Orleans's outer areas where wired infrastructure has not been deployed.
Satellite Internet Installation in New Orleans
Before ordering satellite internet for your New Orleans address, verify line-of-sight requirements. GEO satellite dishes need clear southern sky visibility; tall buildings, mature trees, or hills south of your New Orleans home could obstruct the signal. Starlink needs a wider but less direction-specific sky view. The Starlink app includes an AR tool to check sky visibility before ordering. HughesNet and Viasat offer free site surveys during the installation appointment at New Orleans addresses.
Satellite Internet Insights for New Orleans, LA
As a thriving mid-size city, New Orleans has a diverse internet landscape that includes 9 total providers. Satellite internet plays a specific role in this market, serving residents outside wired coverage areas and providing backup connectivity for homes and businesses. New Orleans's location in Louisiana ensures good satellite visibility, though some neighborhoods with dense tree canopy or multi-story buildings may need careful dish placement.
Local New Orleans internet forums and community groups frequently discuss satellite internet experiences, with Starlink generating the most interest due to its low-latency LEO technology. HughesNet remains popular among budget-conscious New Orleans residents, while Viasat appeals to those who prioritize download speed over cost. The Gulf Coast's growing demand for satellite internet has led to capacity improvements across all providers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Satellite Internet in New Orleans
What satellite internet providers are available in New Orleans, LA?
New Orleans is served by 3 satellite internet providers: HughesNet, Viasat, Starlink. All offer coverage to 100% of addresses in the New Orleans area.
What is the fastest satellite internet in New Orleans?
Viasat's Unleashed 300 plan offers the fastest satellite speeds in New Orleans at up to 300 Mbps. Starlink's LEO service provides 25-220 Mbps with much lower latency (20-40ms vs 600ms+ for GEO satellites).
How much does satellite internet cost in New Orleans?
Satellite internet plans in New Orleans range from $64.99/mo for HughesNet's Select plan (15 Mbps) to $250/mo for Starlink Priority (40-220 Mbps). Viasat plans start at $99.99/mo for 100 Mbps.
Is satellite internet good for streaming in New Orleans?
Modern satellite internet in New Orleans supports HD streaming on most plans. Viasat's 100+ Mbps plans and Starlink handle Netflix and YouTube smoothly. HughesNet's 25 Mbps works for single-device HD streaming. Data caps on some plans may limit heavy streaming.
What is the difference between LEO and GEO satellite internet?
GEO (geostationary) satellites orbit at 22,236 miles, causing 600ms+ latency. HughesNet and traditional Viasat use GEO. LEO (low-earth orbit) satellites like Starlink orbit at 340 miles, reducing latency to 20-40ms, which supports video calls and light gaming.
Does weather affect satellite internet in New Orleans?
Yes, New Orleans's humid subtropical climate can occasionally impact satellite signals. Heavy rain, snow, or dense cloud cover may cause brief outages or speed reductions. LEO satellites like Starlink are generally less affected than GEO services. Modern satellites have improved rain fade resistance significantly.
Explore More Internet Options in New Orleans
- All Internet Providers in New Orleans, LA
- Fiber Internet in New Orleans
- Cable Internet in New Orleans
- Cheap Internet in New Orleans
- 5G Home Internet in New Orleans
- Internet Providers in Louisiana
For more information about satellite internet technology and availability, visit our Satellite Internet Guide or compare HughesNet vs Viasat plans nationwide.
InternetProviders.ai is committed to providing accurate satellite internet information for New Orleans, LA residents. Our team regularly verifies provider availability, pricing, and plan details. Prices shown are as of 2025 and may vary. Satellite internet performance depends on factors including weather, network congestion, and equipment placement. Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you sign up through them at no extra cost to you. This does not influence our editorial recommendations. Call the numbers listed above to verify current pricing and availability at your specific New Orleans address.