Arizona is known for its natural wonders and vibrant cities, but when it comes to internet options, the state lacks in choices. Fiber internet is not widely available, leaving most residents with DSL, cable, or fixed wireless options. CenturyLink is CNET’s pick for the best internet provider in Arizona, with Sparklight, Frontier, Xfinity, and Cox also serving specific regions of the state. Rural areas may have to rely on local fixed wireless providers or satellite internet to get online, as traditional wired options may not reach them.
For rural areas in Arizona, CenturyLink’s DSL service is a reliable option, offering speeds up to 500 Mbps in some locations. Fixed wireless internet is also available through various small providers in the state, although speeds and prices can vary. AireBeam, for example, is expanding its fiber network in some parts of Arizona, providing speeds up to 2,000 Mbps. If DSL and fixed wireless are not feasible, satellite internet from providers like Starlink, Viasat, or Hughesnet can be an alternative, although it may come with higher costs and slower speeds.
All households in Arizona have access to broadband speeds of at least 100 Mbps, with 84% able to access wired broadband networks. However, only about 16% of households have access to fiber internet with speeds of at least 250 Mbps, predominantly in larger metro areas like Phoenix and Tucson. Arizona ranks 32nd in the US for internet speeds, with Cox offering the fastest downloads at a median of nearly 273 Mbps. Opting for a plan with at least 250 Mbps down can put residents ahead of the national average, which sits around 248 Mbps.
Choosing an internet plan in Arizona involves balancing speed and budget, with options starting around $50 per month. Promotional deals and bundled services can lower costs, but be aware of price increases once promotions expire. Low-income households can access affordable internet plans through programs like Xfinity’s Internet Essentials Plus or Cox Communications’ ConnectAssist. With the expansion of fiber networks by providers like AT&T and Google Fiber in Arizona, the state is expected to see improvements in internet connectivity for both urban and rural areas in the near future.
