Internet Providers in Spokane, Washington
Key Takeaways
- Multiple Options: Fiber, cable, DSL, 5G, and satellite available
- Top Speeds: Up to 5 Gbps with fiber where available
- Budget Plans: Starting around $30/month
- Coverage Varies: Check your exact address for availability
- Best Value: Compare before choosing - prices vary significantly
Internet Coverage in Spokane
Spokane boasts a dynamic range of internet coverage options that cater to both urban and suburban areas. With fiber optic technology expanding its reach, many central neighborhoods in Spokane are equipped to handle the demands for high speed and reliability. The fiber availability in more developed areas allows residents to experience speeds that can comfortably support multiple users streaming high-definition videos, engaging in competitive online gaming, or handling large file transfers simultaneously.
Meanwhile, cable internet from providers like Xfinity and Spectrum covers a vast majority of the city. Cable internet is known for its robust and consistent performance, generally offering speeds up to 1.2 Gbps. However, in some outskirts and rural areas, residents might find DSL or satellite to be their only viable options due to the current infrastructure limits. These areas might experience slower speeds, but advancements in technology are gradually improving service quality even in less densely populated zones. For the most accurate information, it’s essential to input your address to see the available providers tailored to your location.
Top Internet Providers in Spokane
Spokane residents have access to several major internet providers. Availability and pricing vary by neighborhood, so always verify at your specific address. Let's take a closer look at what each provider has to offer:
| Provider | Type | Max Speed | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber Provider | Fiber | 5 Gbps | $50/mo |
| Cable Provider | Cable | 1.2 Gbps | $45/mo |
| 5G Provider | 5G Wireless | 300 Mbps | $50/mo |
| Budget Provider | Various | 100 Mbps | $30/mo |
Expanded Provider Details and Additional Plans
Fiber Provider: This high-speed solution offers up to 5 Gbps, being one of the fastest options available for Spokane residents. Ideal for households that demand seamless HD streaming and online gaming with minimal latency issues, fiber internet is also a favorite among remote workers needing a stable and fast connection for video conferences. It includes symmetrical speeds, which means upload and download rates are equal. For those interested, reach out at AT&T: 1-855-850-5977.
Cable Provider: With a wide-reaching network throughout Spokane, cable internet offers a consistent service with various plans, allowing users to choose according to speed requirements and budget constraints. Plans start at speeds around 100 Mbps, suitable for moderate internet use, scaling up to above 1 Gbps for heavy consumption. This makes it a viable option for users who prefer or require steady access for extended periods. Inquire more by calling Xfinity: 1-844-963-0138.
5G Wireless Provider: Spokane's burgeoning 5G technology is revolutionizing internet access through wireless solutions that cater to modern, mobile-friendly households. Offering speeds around 300 Mbps without the need for extensive hardware installation, it provides a superb alternative to traditional options in urban areas. Considering the growing dependence on portable devices, 5G offers flexibility and speed. Contact Spectrum: 1-844-481-5997 for details.
Budget Provider: Acknowledging that not all homes require ultra-fast speeds, budget providers are invaluable, offering services starting from 100 Mbps at economical prices. It’s a practical solution for individuals or households primarily engaged in browsing and light streaming. Interested customers can reach out at AT&T: 1-855-850-5977 to see what budget-friendly options might suit their needs.
Decision Engine
Choose Fiber if: You need the fastest speeds and lowest latency for gaming, streaming, or working from home. Fiber is excellent for large households with numerous devices connected simultaneously without compromising speed.
Choose Cable if: You want a good balance of speed and price with wide availability. Ideal for families who stream videos and play games regularly but might not need the ultra-high speeds fiber provides.
Choose 5G if: You need quick setup with no installation required, favoring a wireless approach that can be easily relocated as needed. Suitable for tech-savvy users looking for flexibility and the modern benefits of 5G.
Choosing the Right Plan
Selecting an internet plan that suits your specific needs involves a few crucial considerations. Start by evaluating the number of users and the type of activities supported. Larger households with multiple simultaneous users tend to benefit most from fiber or high-speed cable plans. These provide the bandwidth necessary for streaming high-definition content, engaging in online gaming, and conducting video conferences without interruption.
Next, consider your monthly budget. Cable plans often offer competitive pricing, especially when bundled with TV or phone services. For those with lighter internet demands—perhaps you only occasionally stream, browse, or email—a budget provider or DSL service might suffice. Most importantly, review contract terms thoroughly to understand any potential price increases after a promotional period. Also, inquire about data caps or additional fees for exceeding typical usage patterns to avoid unwanted surprises.
Speed Test Results for Spokane
Reliable speed test results have shown that Spokane's internet services, especially those based on fiber and cable, consistently meet their advertised speeds. Fiber users frequently report achieving speeds close to the promised 1 Gbps, contributing to buffer-free video streaming and smooth gaming experiences. Cable networks, although experiencing slight slowdowns during peak usage times, generally run at speeds upwards of 800 Mbps, which is sufficient for most heavy internet activities. On the other hand, DSL users can expect lower speeds often maxing out around 50 Mbps, which might suit basic uses but struggle with bandwidth-heavy activities.
Neighborhoods and Coverage
Diverse Spokane neighborhoods experience varying levels of internet access and service quality. The South Hill area, known for its fiber-ready infrastructure, offers some of the fastest connections in the city, making it an attractive choice for digital experts and businesses. Meanwhile, neighborhoods such as the Browne’s Addition and East Central benefit from strong cable and expanding fiber options, ensuring residents enjoy reliable high-speed internet. In contrast, places like Cheney and areas towards Spokane Valley may face reduced high-speed options, leaning more towards DSL. This disparity highlights the importance of localized address checks before selecting an ISP.
FAQs About Spokane Internet
What's the best internet provider in Spokane?
The best provider depends on your needs. Fiber offers the fastest speeds, cable provides good value, and 5G offers easy setup. Compare options at your address to find the best service.
How do I check what internet is available at my address in Spokane?
Enter your address in our search tool above to see all available providers, speeds, and prices at your exact location in Spokane.
Is fiber internet available in Spokane?
Fiber internet is available in many Spokane neighborhoods but coverage varies. Enter your address to check fiber availability at your location specifically.
What's the cheapest internet plan available in Spokane?
Plans start as low as $30 per month through budget DSL and cable providers. Be sure to compare all plans available at your address for the best deal and service quality.
How reliable is 5G home internet in Spokane?
5G internet in Spokane is relatively new and can provide reliable service with competitive speeds, particularly in urban areas where infrastructure support is robust. Check local coverage maps and service reviews for the most accurate picture.
Can I bundle internet with other services in Spokane?
Yes, several providers offer bundling options that include TV and phone services. This can be beneficial for those looking to save money or simplify billing with one provider.
Are there any data caps on Spokane internet plans?
Some providers impose data caps, often around 1 TB per month. Choosing an unlimited plan might be advisable if you are a heavy data user. Always inquire about these features when selecting your plan.
How do I switch my Spokane internet provider?
To switch providers, contact the new service provider to arrange the installation. Many offer assistance with the cancellation of your existing service and may provide cost-saving incentives for switching.
What should I do if I experience internet outages?
If you experience internet outages, first check if it is an isolated incident or a wider outage affecting other users by contacting your provider's customer service. If issues persist, consider upgrading to a more reliable service or discuss compensation with your current provider.
Internet Speed Requirements for Spokane Households
The speed you need in Spokane depends on how many people and devices use your connection simultaneously. A single person streaming video and browsing the web can get by with 50-100 Mbps. A household of 2-3 people with regular streaming and video calls should target 200-300 Mbps. Larger families with 4 or more heavy users benefit from 500 Mbps to 1 Gbps plans, especially when multiple people are streaming in 4K, gaming online, or working from home at the same time.
Upload speed matters just as much as download speed for Spokane residents who work remotely. Video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Teams require at least 5 Mbps upload for stable HD video, and 10 Mbps or more for group calls with screen sharing. If multiple household members participate in video calls simultaneously, ensure your plan provides at least 20-25 Mbps upload speed. Fiber plans offer the best upload performance with symmetrical speeds.
How to Choose an Internet Provider in Spokane
Start by checking which providers actually serve your specific address in Spokane, as coverage can vary significantly even within the same city. Enter your address on each provider's website or use our comparison tool to see all available options. Compare the actual speeds offered at your address, not just the provider's maximum advertised speed, since availability of faster tiers depends on local infrastructure.
Beyond speed, compare the total monthly cost including equipment rental fees, installation charges, and price increases after promotional periods end. Providers in Spokane, Washington may offer different promotions depending on the season and competition in your area. Ask about no-contract options to maintain flexibility, and check whether a provider requires a credit check, as some offer prepaid alternatives. Reading recent customer reviews specific to Spokane gives the most relevant picture of service quality and reliability in your neighborhood.
Internet Equipment Options in Spokane
Most internet providers in Spokane offer the option to rent a modem and WiFi router for $10-15 per month or use your own compatible equipment. Purchasing your own modem and router costs $140-250 upfront but saves $120-180 annually in rental fees, paying for itself within 12-18 months. Check your provider's compatible equipment list before purchasing to ensure the modem supports your plan speed and technology type.
For homes in Spokane larger than 1,500 square feet or with multiple floors, a mesh WiFi system provides better coverage than a single router. Mesh systems like Google Nest WiFi, Eero, and TP-Link Deco use multiple access points to blanket your home with consistent signal. If your home has coaxial wiring from previous cable TV service, a MoCA adapter can create a wired backbone between access points for even better performance without running new Ethernet cables.
Saving Money on Internet in Spokane
Internet costs in Spokane, Washington can be reduced through several strategies. First, avoid paying for more speed than you actually need by testing your current usage patterns. Many households pay for gigabit plans but rarely use more than 200 Mbps during peak hours. Downgrading to a plan that matches your actual usage can save $20-40 per month without any noticeable difference in your online experience.
Negotiate with your current provider, especially when your promotional rate expires. Call the retention department, mention competitor pricing, and ask about available discounts. Most providers offer $10-30 monthly discounts to keep existing customers rather than lose them to competitors. Additionally, purchase your own modem and router to eliminate $10-15 in monthly equipment fees, and check eligibility for low-income internet programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program, Lifeline, or provider-specific discount plans.
Troubleshooting Internet Issues in Spokane
If your internet in Spokane is not performing as expected, start by power cycling your modem and router. Unplug both devices for 30 seconds, then reconnect the modem first and wait for all indicator lights to stabilize before plugging in the router. This simple step resolves most intermittent connection problems by clearing temporary memory issues and refreshing your network connection to the provider.
Test your speed using a wired Ethernet connection directly to the modem to isolate whether the issue is with your internet service or your home WiFi network. If wired speeds match your plan but WiFi is slow, the problem is likely router placement, interference from other electronics, or outdated equipment. Move your router to a central elevated location, update its firmware, and consider upgrading to a WiFi 6 router if yours is more than three years old. Contact your provider only after confirming that wired speeds are consistently below 70 percent of your plan speed.
Internet Market Overview for Spokane
Spokane, Washington benefits from competition among multiple internet providers, which helps keep pricing competitive and encourages network investment. The local internet market includes a mix of fiber, cable, DSL, fixed wireless, and satellite providers, giving residents more options than many other communities. Fiber internet availability has been expanding steadily across Spokane, bringing gigabit symmetrical speeds to more neighborhoods each year.
As remote work and online education continue to grow, reliable internet has become essential infrastructure for Spokane residents. Local demand for higher speeds has driven providers to upgrade their networks, with cable companies deploying DOCSIS 3.1 technology and fiber providers extending their reach into new areas. These upgrades benefit all customers with faster speeds, lower latency, and improved reliability compared to the infrastructure available just a few years ago.