"How much is Verizon internet?" is a question that many people ask when considering their home internet options. The answer isn't a single, fixed number, as Verizon offers a variety of internet services with different price points based on speed, technology (fiber vs. 5G Home Internet), your location, and any bundling options or promotions you qualify for.
Let's dive into a comprehensive guide to understanding Verizon internet costs, step-by-step!
Understanding Verizon Internet Pricing: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Let's Figure Out What You Need!
Before we even talk about specific prices, think about your internet usage. What do you and your household do online? This is the crucial first step to determining which Verizon internet plan is right for you and, by extension, how much it will cost.
How many people live in your household?
How many devices are connected to the internet simultaneously? (Think smartphones, laptops, smart TVs, gaming consoles, smart home devices, etc.)
What are your primary online activities?
Basic Browse and email?
Standard definition streaming (Netflix, YouTube)?
High-definition (HD) streaming or 4K streaming?
Online gaming (casual or competitive)?
Remote work or online schooling with video conferencing?
Large file downloads/uploads?
Do you frequently upload videos or create content?
Your answers to these questions will help you gauge the speed you truly need, saving you from overspending on a plan that's too powerful or being frustrated by one that's too slow.
Step 2: Identify the Type of Verizon Internet Available to You
Verizon primarily offers two main types of home internet: Verizon Fios (fiber optic) and Verizon 5G Home Internet. The cost will vary significantly between these.
Sub-heading: Verizon Fios – The Power of Fiber Optic
Verizon Fios is known for its blazing-fast speeds and symmetrical download and upload speeds. This means your upload speeds are often as fast as your download speeds, which is a huge advantage for activities like video conferencing, cloud backups, and online gaming. Fios is typically available in select Northeastern U.S. states.
Fios Plan Structure:
Fios 300 Mbps: A great starting point for many households, offering 300 Mbps download and 300 Mbps upload. This is often sufficient for streaming HD content, online gaming, and multiple connected devices.
Fios 500 Mbps: For busier households with more streaming, gaming, and remote work, 500 Mbps symmetrical speeds provide a significant boost.
Fios 1 Gig (up to 940/880 Mbps): This is Verizon's popular gigabit fiber plan, offering speeds up to 940 Mbps download and 880 Mbps upload. Ideal for heavy internet users, large families, 4K streaming on multiple devices, and serious online gaming.
Fios 2 Gig (limited availability): In some areas, Verizon offers a 2 Gigabit plan, pushing speeds even higher for the most demanding users.
Typical Monthly Costs for Fios (with Auto Pay):
Fios 300 Mbps: Around $49.99/month
Fios 500 Mbps: Around $74.99/month
Fios 1 Gig: Around $89.99/month
Fios 2 Gig: Around $109.99/month
Important Note: These prices often require Auto Pay enrollment and may not include taxes and additional fees, though Verizon generally aims for transparent "all-in" pricing.
Sub-heading: Verizon 5G Home Internet – Wireless Freedom
Verizon 5G Home Internet utilizes Verizon's 5G cellular network to deliver internet service to your home. It's a fantastic option for those who don't have access to fiber or prefer a wireless setup with no data caps or equipment fees.
5G Home Internet Plan Structure:
5G Home: Offers download speeds typically ranging from 85 Mbps to 300 Mbps and upload speeds up to 20 Mbps.
5G Home Plus: Provides faster speeds, ranging from 300 Mbps to 1,000 Mbps download and 50 Mbps to 75 Mbps upload.
5G Home Ultimate (newest addition): Offers Verizon's fastest speeds available through 5G, with unlimited premium data for Ultra HD 4K streaming.
Typical Monthly Costs for 5G Home Internet (with Auto Pay):
5G Home: Around $60.00/month
5G Home Plus: Around $80.00/month
5G Home Ultimate: Expect higher, possibly $100+/month
Huge Savings Opportunity: If you have a qualifying Verizon 5G mobile plan, you can often get significant discounts on 5G Home Internet. For example, the 5G Home plan can drop to around $35/month and the 5G Home Plus to $45/month with a bundled mobile plan.
Step 3: Consider Additional Costs and Fees
While Verizon often promotes "no hidden fees" with 5G Home Internet and includes equipment with Fios, there are still some potential costs to be aware of.
Sub-heading: Installation and Setup Fees
Verizon Fios: A one-time setup charge of around $99 may apply for Fios installation. However, this fee is often waived if you order online, or if you sign up for higher-tier plans like Fios 1 Gig. It's always worth asking if this fee can be waived during the sign-up process.
Verizon 5G Home Internet: Typically, there are no installation fees for 5G Home Internet, as it's designed for self-setup. You simply plug in the router.
Sub-heading: Equipment Rental Fees
Verizon Fios: The router is typically included in the monthly Fios price, so there isn't usually an additional rental fee. If you need Wi-Fi extenders, there might be a separate charge.
Verizon 5G Home Internet: The wireless router/receiver is included with your plan, with no separate equipment rental fees.
Sub-heading: Taxes and Regulatory Fees
Like any utility service, your Verizon internet bill will include applicable taxes and regulatory fees. While Verizon 5G Home Internet often boasts "all-in pricing," it's always wise to confirm the final total with taxes when you sign up. For Fios, these are usually itemized.
Step 4: Look for Promotions, Bundles, and Discounts
Verizon frequently offers promotions that can significantly reduce your monthly internet cost.
Sub-heading: Mobile + Home Bundles
As mentioned, bundling Verizon 5G Home Internet with a qualifying Verizon 5G mobile plan can lead to substantial savings (e.g., $15-$35 off per month). Similar, though often smaller, discounts might be available for Fios customers who also have Verizon mobile.
Sub-heading: Price Guarantees
Many Verizon internet plans, especially 5G Home Internet, come with price guarantees (e.g., 2-year or 3-year price lock). This means your monthly rate is locked in for that period, providing stability and protecting you from price hikes. Fios plans also frequently offer price guarantees, sometimes for up to 5 years depending on the plan.
Sub-heading: Sign-Up Bonuses and Perks
Keep an eye out for special offers like:
Gift Cards: Sometimes, signing up for a new internet plan comes with a virtual Visa® Prepaid Card.
Streaming Service Perks: Verizon often partners with streaming services (Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Netflix, Max, YouTube Premium, Apple One, Apple Music) to offer discounts or even free months when you subscribe to certain internet plans. These can be a significant value add.
Switching Credits: If you're switching from another provider, Verizon might offer credits to help cover early termination fees from your previous service, up to a certain amount (e.g., $500 or $1,500 for business plans).
Free Equipment: While equipment is generally included, sometimes they highlight "free router" as a promotion.
Sub-heading: Auto Pay and Paperless Billing Discounts
Most Verizon internet prices assume you're enrolled in Auto Pay and paper-free billing. If you opt out of these, your monthly bill could be slightly higher (e.g., $5/month).
Step 5: Check Availability at Your Address
The most critical step is to verify what Verizon services are actually available at your specific address. Verizon Fios coverage is regional, while 5G Home Internet availability is expanding rapidly but still depends on 5G Ultra Wideband coverage.
Visit the Verizon Website: The easiest way to check is to go to the official Verizon website and enter your address. They will show you the exact plans and pricing available to you.
Contact Verizon Sales: If the online tool is unclear or you have specific questions, call Verizon sales directly.
Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 related FAQ questions about Verizon internet, focusing on "How to" queries:
How to check Verizon internet availability at my address?
You can easily check Verizon internet availability by visiting the official Verizon website and entering your street address in the "Check availability" or "Shop now" section. This will show you the specific Fios or 5G Home Internet plans offered in your area.
How to get the best deal on Verizon internet?
To get the best deal, consider bundling with a Verizon mobile plan (especially for 5G Home Internet), enrolling in Auto Pay and paperless billing, looking for new customer promotions, and checking if installation fees can be waived.
How to lower my Verizon internet bill?
You can try to lower your bill by ensuring you're on Auto Pay and paperless billing, reviewing your current plan to see if a lower speed tier meets your needs, inquiring about current promotions for existing customers, or bundling with a Verizon mobile plan if you haven't already.
How to install Verizon 5G Home Internet?
Verizon 5G Home Internet is designed for easy self-installation. You typically receive a router/receiver in the mail, plug it into a power outlet, and follow the simple instructions on the Verizon app or included guide to connect your devices.
How to return Verizon internet equipment?
If you disconnect your service, you will need to return all Verizon Fios equipment (router, set-top boxes, etc.) within 30 days of your service disconnection date to avoid unreturned equipment charges. Verizon provides instructions and often a prepaid shipping label for returns. For 5G Home Internet, consult the specific return instructions as the process might differ slightly.
How to avoid Verizon internet installation fees?
For Fios, the $99 setup fee is often waived if you order online or sign up for a gigabit-speed plan. Always confirm this during the sign-up process, and don't hesitate to ask a representative if it can be waived. 5G Home Internet generally does not have installation fees.
How to understand Verizon internet speed tiers?
Verizon internet speed tiers are measured in Megabits per second (Mbps) for both download and upload. For Fios, speeds are symmetrical (e.g., 300/300 Mbps). For 5G Home Internet, download speeds are typically much higher than upload speeds. Higher numbers mean faster internet, accommodating more devices and data-intensive activities like 4K streaming or online gaming.
How to switch from my current internet provider to Verizon?
First, check Verizon internet availability at your address. Then, select a Verizon plan. Verizon sometimes offers credits (up to $500 or more) to help cover early termination fees if you're breaking a contract with your current provider. Ensure your new Verizon service is active before canceling your old one to avoid any downtime.
How to get Verizon internet for free?
While "free" internet is rare, you might qualify for programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) which can provide a discount (e.g., $30/month) on your internet service, potentially making a low-cost Verizon plan free or very inexpensive if you meet the eligibility criteria.
How to bundle Verizon internet with TV or phone services?
Verizon allows you to bundle Fios internet with Fios TV and home phone services. You can explore these bundles on their website or by speaking with a sales representative, who can help you customize a package that meets your needs and potentially offers savings compared to separate services.
