You're ready to cut the cord on expensive cable TV bundles and just want the internet, right? Excellent choice! Navigating the world of internet-only plans can sometimes feel like solving a complex puzzle, especially with different technologies and promotional offers. But don't worry, we're here to demystify "how much does Verizon charge for just internet" and guide you through every step of getting connected.
Verizon offers two primary types of home internet service: Fios (fiber optic) and 5G Home Internet/LTE Home Internet (wireless). The cost largely depends on which service is available in your area and the speed tier you choose. Let's break it down!
Unpacking Verizon Internet-Only Costs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility – The Crucial First Move!
Before diving into plan specifics and pricing, the absolute first thing you need to do is determine which Verizon internet services are available at your exact address. Verizon Fios, their highly-regarded fiber-optic service, is available in specific Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states and metro areas. Verizon 5G Home Internet and LTE Home Internet, on the other hand, leverage their wireless network and have broader, though still expanding, coverage.
How to Check:
Visit the Verizon Website: Head to the official Verizon Home Internet page (
). You'll typically find a prominent "Check Availability" or "Shop Plans" section where you can enter your full street address, city, and ZIP code.verizon.com/home/internet/ Call Verizon Directly: If you prefer speaking to someone, or if the online checker gives an ambiguous result, call Verizon's sales line. Their representatives can confirm service availability and even walk you through current promotions.
Why is this so important? Because the pricing structures and available speeds differ significantly between Fios and their wireless home internet options. You don't want to get excited about a Fios Gigabit plan only to find out it's not in your neighborhood!
Step 2: Understanding Verizon's Internet Technologies & Their Price Structures
Once you know what's available, you can focus on the relevant pricing.
Sub-heading 2.1: Verizon Fios Internet (Fiber Optic)
Verizon Fios is renowned for its symmetrical speeds (meaning upload speeds are as fast as download speeds) and reliability, as it runs on a 100% fiber-optic network directly to your home. Fios plans typically come with a price lock guarantee, often for 2 or 3 years, which is a fantastic benefit.
Here's a general idea of Fios internet-only plan pricing (as of mid-2025), keeping in mind prices can vary by region and current promotions:
Fios 300 Mbps: This is often the entry-level plan, offering symmetrical 300 Mbps download and upload speeds. It's usually priced around $49.99/month with Auto Pay. This speed is excellent for most households, supporting multiple streamers, online gaming, and remote work.
Fios 500 Mbps: A step up for busier households or those who demand more bandwidth. Expect speeds around 500 Mbps symmetrical. The cost is typically in the range of $74.99/month with Auto Pay.
Fios 1 Gig: For heavy users, large families, or smart homes with many connected devices. This plan offers speeds up to 940 Mbps download and 880 Mbps upload. You're looking at approximately $89.99/month with Auto Pay. This plan often waives the router rental fee.
Fios 2 Gig: Verizon also offers a super-fast 2 Gig plan in limited availability, particularly in the greater New York City area. This plan can cost around $109.99/month with Auto Pay and provides incredibly high speeds, especially for those with specialized needs.
Key Fios Considerations:
Router Rental Fee: For the 300 Mbps and 500 Mbps plans, you might incur an additional equipment rental fee of approximately $15/month for the Fios Wi-Fi router (e.g., Fios Router G3100). This fee is often waived for the 1 Gig and 2 Gig plans. You can often purchase the router outright to avoid this recurring fee, but it's an upfront cost.
Installation/Setup Fee: Verizon typically has a setup fee, often around $99. However, this fee is frequently waived if you order online. Always check for online-exclusive deals!
Auto Pay: Most advertised prices require enrollment in Auto Pay and paper-free billing to receive the stated discount. Make sure to factor this in.
Sub-heading 2.2: Verizon 5G Home Internet & LTE Home Internet (Wireless)
These services use Verizon's cellular network to provide home internet, making them available in areas where fiber isn't. They offer a simpler pricing structure, often with fewer hidden fees.
5G Home: This entry-level plan typically offers speeds ranging from 85-300 Mbps. The cost is usually around $60/month, but it can be as low as $35/month if you have a qualifying Verizon postpaid mobile phone plan (with Auto Pay).
5G Home Plus: Offers faster speeds, generally 300-1,000 Mbps. This plan is typically priced around $80/month, but can drop to $45/month with a qualifying Verizon postpaid mobile plan (with Auto Pay).
5G Home Ultimate: This top-tier wireless plan offers the fastest speeds available on the 5G network, often exceeding 1 Gbps in ideal conditions. It's usually priced around $85/month, but can be reduced to $60/month with a qualifying Verizon postpaid mobile plan (with Auto Pay).
Key Wireless Home Internet Considerations:
Mobile Plan Discount: This is a major factor for wireless home internet. If you're already a Verizon mobile customer, you can save significantly on your internet bill.
Equipment: The necessary 5G/LTE Home Internet router is typically included at no extra charge, eliminating rental fees.
No Data Caps: Verizon's 5G Home Internet and LTE Home Internet plans generally come with no data caps, offering unlimited data usage.
Speed Variability: While advertised speeds are excellent, wireless internet speeds can be more susceptible to factors like network congestion, distance from the tower, and building materials than fiber optic.
Step 3: Look for Deals and Promotions!
Verizon is constantly running promotions, especially for new customers. These can significantly impact your initial cost.
New Customer Deals: Keep an eye out for welcome bonuses like gift cards, discounted initial months, or waived installation fees.
Bundling Discounts: While you're asking about "just internet," it's worth noting that Verizon often offers discounts if you bundle with a Verizon Wireless mobile plan. As seen above, this can be a substantial saving for 5G Home Internet.
Perks and Streaming Subscriptions: Verizon sometimes includes or offers discounts on popular streaming services (like the Disney Bundle, Netflix & Max, YouTube Premium, etc.) as perks with certain internet plans, particularly their higher-tier Fios and 5G Home Ultimate plans. While these aren't "internet only" per se, they can add value if you already subscribe to these services.
Price Locks: Many Fios plans come with a 2-year or 3-year price lock, meaning your base monthly rate won't change during that period. This provides cost stability.
Step 4: Factor in Additional Costs & Fees (The "Hidden" Stuff)
While the base monthly rate is what you'll see advertised, there are other potential costs to be aware of:
Taxes and Surcharges: These are always extra and vary by location. They can add a few dollars to your monthly bill.
Equipment Purchase vs. Rental: As mentioned for Fios, deciding whether to rent or buy your router can impact your long-term costs. If you plan to stay with Verizon for a long time, buying might be more economical.
Installation Fees: Again, often waived for online orders, but can apply if you require a technician visit and don't qualify for a waiver.
Late Payment Fees: If you miss a payment, expect a late fee.
Early Termination Fees (ETFs): Good news! Verizon Fios and 5G Home Internet plans generally do not have early termination fees if you cancel service. This is a significant advantage compared to many other providers. However, always confirm this when signing up.
Upgrade/Downgrade Fees: While rare for internet plans, some providers charge a fee if you change your plan mid-contract. With Verizon's no-contract policy, this is less of a concern, but it's worth a quick check.
Step 5: Understand Your Billing Cycle and Payment Options
Monthly Billing: Verizon, like most internet providers, bills on a monthly cycle. Your first bill might be higher due to prorated charges for the initial period of service.
Auto Pay: Strongly recommended for discounts and convenience. You can link a checking account or credit card.
Online Account Management: Verizon provides robust online tools and a mobile app (My Verizon) to view your bill, track usage, and manage your account.
Putting it All Together: Example Scenarios (Illustrative)
To give you a better idea, let's consider some hypothetical scenarios:
Scenario 1: Fios for a Moderate User (New Customer, Online Order)
Plan: Fios 300 Mbps
Base Price (with Auto Pay): $49.99/month
Router Rental: $15.00/month
Installation Fee: $0 (waived online)
Estimated Monthly Total (before taxes/surcharges): $64.99/month
Scenario 2: 5G Home Internet for a Verizon Mobile Customer
Plan: 5G Home
Base Price (with qualifying mobile plan & Auto Pay): $35.00/month
Equipment Rental: $0 (included)
Installation Fee: $0 (self-install)
Estimated Monthly Total (before taxes/surcharges): $35.00/month
Scenario 3: Fios 1 Gig for a Power User
Plan: Fios 1 Gig
Base Price (with Auto Pay): $89.99/month
Equipment Rental: $0 (waived with 1 Gig plan)
Installation Fee: $0 (waived online)
Estimated Monthly Total (before taxes/surcharges): $89.99/month
Remember these are illustrative and real prices will vary based on current offers and your specific location's taxes and fees.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right Verizon internet-only plan comes down to your individual needs, budget, and location.
If Fios is available, it's generally the gold standard for reliability and symmetrical speeds, making it ideal for heavy online activities. Be mindful of the router fee if not getting a Gigabit plan.
If Fios isn't available, or if you're a Verizon mobile customer looking for maximum savings, Verizon 5G Home Internet or LTE Home Internet offers a compelling wireless alternative with straightforward pricing and no data caps.
Always take the time to visit the Verizon website directly, enter your address, and review the exact plans and promotions offered to you. Don't hesitate to call their sales team to clarify any details or negotiate if you see a better offer from a competitor.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check Verizon internet availability at my address?
To check Verizon internet availability, go to the official Verizon Home Internet website (
How to get the best deal on Verizon internet-only plans?
To get the best deal, always order online to potentially waive installation fees, sign up for Auto Pay for monthly discounts, and check for new customer promotions like gift cards or discounted introductory rates. If you're a Verizon mobile customer, inquire about significant discounts on 5G Home Internet.
How to avoid Verizon router rental fees for Fios?
You can avoid Verizon Fios router rental fees by either purchasing the router outright from Verizon or by subscribing to their Fios 1 Gig or 2 Gig plans, which often include the router without an extra monthly charge.
How to switch from a Verizon internet bundle to internet-only?
To switch from a bundle to internet-only, you'll need to contact Verizon customer service directly. Be aware that changing your plan may affect any bundle discounts you currently receive for other services like TV or home phone.
How to determine if I need Fios 300 Mbps, 500 Mbps, or 1 Gig?
300 Mbps: Good for 1-3 people, streaming in HD, general Browse, light gaming, and remote work.
500 Mbps: Ideal for 3-5 people, multiple 4K streams, moderate online gaming, and frequent video conferencing.
1 Gig: Best for large families, heavy gamers, multiple concurrent 4K/8K streams, significant large file downloads/uploads, and smart homes with many connected devices.
How to set up Verizon 5G Home Internet?
Verizon 5G Home Internet typically involves a simple self-setup process. You'll receive a pre-configured router that you just plug in, place in an optimal location (often near a window), and connect your devices. Instructions are usually included in the box.
How to pay my Verizon internet bill?
You can pay your Verizon internet bill online via the My Verizon website or app, by setting up Auto Pay, by phone, or by mail.
How to contact Verizon customer service for internet billing questions?
You can contact Verizon customer service for internet billing questions by calling their dedicated residential support line (often 1-800-VERIZON or found on their "Contact Us" page online) or through the chat feature on their website or My Verizon app.
How to know if Verizon Fios is better than 5G Home Internet for me?
Fios (fiber optic) is generally better if you need the most consistent, symmetrical speeds, especially for heavy uploads, and if low latency is crucial (e.g., competitive online gaming). 5G Home Internet is a great, often more affordable, option if Fios isn't available or if you're a Verizon mobile customer, and your speed needs align with its performance in your area.
How to cancel Verizon internet service?
To cancel Verizon internet service, you must contact Verizon customer service directly by phone. Be prepared to provide your account information and state your intention to cancel. Confirm any final charges or return procedures for equipment.