How Much Does It Cost to Just Have Internet with Verizon? A Comprehensive Guide
Hey there! Are you tired of paying for bundled services you don't even use? Just want fast, reliable internet without all the extra fluff? You've come to the right place! Verizon offers a variety of internet-only options, but understanding the true cost can be a bit like navigating a maze. Don't worry, we're here to shine a light on every twist and turn, so you can confidently choose the best plan for your needs and budget.
This guide will break down the costs, show you how to find the best deals, and help you avoid hidden fees. Let's get started!
Step 1: Discover Your Verizon Internet Options – What Kind of Internet Can You Get?
Before we dive into prices, the first crucial step is to understand what type of Verizon internet service is available at your specific location. Verizon primarily offers two main types of home internet:
Sub-heading: Verizon Fios (Fiber Optic Internet)
This is Verizon's premier internet service, known for its blazing-fast, symmetrical upload and download speeds. Fios uses fiber-optic cables directly to your home, offering superior performance, especially for heavy internet users, gamers, and those who frequently upload large files.
Availability: Fios is generally available in select areas of the Northeast United States. If you're in a major metropolitan area in states like New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, or Virginia, there's a good chance Fios is an option.
Sub-heading: Verizon 5G Home Internet & LTE Home Internet (Fixed Wireless)
If Fios isn't available in your area, Verizon's fixed wireless options, 5G Home Internet and LTE Home Internet, might be your solution. These services leverage Verizon's cellular network to deliver internet to your home.
5G Home Internet: This uses Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband network to provide high-speed internet, often comparable to cable internet speeds. It's an excellent alternative if fiber isn't in your neighborhood.
LTE Home Internet: For areas where 5G isn't yet available, LTE Home Internet uses Verizon's 4G LTE network. While generally slower than 5G Home Internet or Fios, it can still be a viable option for basic internet needs.
Action Item: Head over to the Verizon website (verizon.com) and use their availability checker. Enter your address to see which services are offered in your precise location. This is the most important first step in determining your potential costs.
Step 2: Unpacking the Monthly Internet Plan Costs
Once you know what's available, it's time to look at the monthly pricing. Verizon offers various speed tiers, and the price will vary accordingly. Remember that prices are often advertised with Auto Pay discounts already applied.
Sub-heading: Verizon Fios Internet-Only Plans (Typical Monthly Costs)
Fios plans are straightforward, offering symmetrical speeds (meaning download and upload speeds are nearly identical).
Fios 300 Mbps: Often starts around $49.99/month with Auto Pay. This is a solid option for most households, supporting streaming, Browse, and online gaming.
Fios 500 Mbps: Typically around $74.99/month with Auto Pay. Great for heavier streaming, multiple users, and more demanding online activities.
Fios 1 Gig (Gigabit) Internet: Priced around $89.99/month with Auto Pay. This is for the ultimate internet experience, with speeds up to 940 Mbps download and 880 Mbps upload. Ideal for smart homes, competitive online gaming, and professionals who handle large files.
Fios 2 Gig Internet: The fastest available, often around $109.00/month with Auto Pay, offering speeds up to 2.3 Gbps. This is for the most demanding users and future-proofing your home network.
Note: These prices usually include the router rental fee, as Verizon permanently removed its monthly router fee for Fios plans in 2022.
Sub-heading: Verizon 5G Home Internet & LTE Home Internet Plans (Typical Monthly Costs)
Fixed wireless internet pricing can be a bit more dynamic, often offering significant discounts if you're already a Verizon mobile customer.
5G Home: This plan often starts around $50.00/month with Auto Pay. If you have a qualifying Verizon 5G mobile plan, this price can drop significantly, sometimes to as low as $35.00/month with Auto Pay. Speeds typically range from 85-300 Mbps.
5G Home Plus: A faster tier, usually priced around $70.00/month with Auto Pay. For qualifying Verizon mobile customers, it can be as low as $55.00/month with Auto Pay. Speeds can reach up to 1,000 Mbps (1 Gig) depending on coverage.
LTE Home: Similar pricing to 5G Home, around $50.00/month, but speeds are slower, typically up to 50 Mbps.
Important Consideration: Verizon 5G Home Internet and LTE Home Internet plans typically include the wireless router at no extra charge and do not have data caps or annual contracts.
Step 3: Understanding Potential One-Time and Recurring Fees Beyond the Monthly Bill
The advertised monthly price is often just one piece of the puzzle. Be aware of these potential additional costs:
Sub-heading: Installation Fees
Fios: A standard professional installation fee for Fios is typically around $99. However, this fee is often waived if you order online, or if you sign up for a higher-tier plan like Fios 1 Gig. Self-installation might be an option in some cases, further reducing this cost.
5G Home/LTE Home: For these fixed wireless services, installation is generally free. These are designed to be plug-and-play, with equipment sent directly to you.
Sub-heading: Equipment Charges (Router Rental/Purchase)
Fios: As mentioned, Verizon no longer charges a monthly router rental fee for Fios internet plans. The router is included. However, if you wanted to purchase an additional router or Wi-Fi extender beyond what's included, there would be a cost. Whole-Home Wi-Fi with extenders is often included with 1 Gig or 2 Gig plans, or available for $10/month with other Fios plans.
5G Home/LTE Home: The necessary wireless router/gateway is typically included in your monthly plan cost with no additional rental fees.
Sub-heading: Taxes and Regulatory Fees
These are unavoidable and vary by location. They are typically a small percentage of your monthly bill but can add a few dollars to the total. Verizon often includes taxes and fees in their advertised Fios prices, but it's always good to confirm.
Sub-heading: Early Termination Fees (ETFs)
Verizon Fios and 5G Home/LTE Home generally do NOT require annual contracts. This is a huge benefit, meaning you're not locked into a long-term commitment.
However, if you accept a special promotional offer that does require a contract (less common for internet-only, but still possible), canceling early could incur an ETF. Always read the fine print of any promotional deal.
Step 4: Hunting for Deals and Discounts – Save Money on Your Internet-Only Plan!
Verizon frequently offers promotions to attract new customers and reward existing ones. Here's how to maximize your savings:
Sub-heading: Auto Pay & Paper-Free Billing
Nearly all Verizon internet plans offer a discount (usually $5-$10/month) for signing up for Auto Pay and paper-free billing. This is an easy way to save consistently.
Sub-heading: Mobile + Home Discount
If you're already a Verizon mobile customer (or plan to become one), you can often get a significant discount on your Verizon home internet plan. This can be as much as $15-$25 per month, making 5G Home Internet particularly attractive. This is one of the biggest ways to save.
Sub-heading: New Customer Promotions
Keep an eye out for special introductory pricing, gift cards (like Amazon gift cards), or free streaming service subscriptions (e.g., YouTube Premium, Disney Bundle) for a limited time when you sign up. These are often tied to specific plans, especially the higher-speed tiers.
Sub-heading: Price Guarantees
Many Verizon Fios and 5G Home Internet plans come with a price lock guarantee for 2, 3, or even 4 years. This means your monthly rate won't increase during that period, providing excellent peace of mind.
Sub-heading: Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
If you qualify based on income or participation in certain government assistance programs, you might be eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This federal program provides a discount of up to $30/month (or up to $75/month for qualifying tribal lands) on internet service. Verizon participates in this program, potentially making your internet practically free depending on the plan.
Sub-heading: Check Competitor Offers
Even if you prefer Verizon, knowing what competitors in your area are offering can give you leverage if you need to negotiate pricing, especially after an introductory period ends.
Step 5: Calculating Your Estimated Total Cost
Let's put it all together with a few examples. Keep in mind these are estimates and actual costs may vary based on your exact location, current promotions, and whether you qualify for specific discounts.
Example A: Basic Fios Internet-Only
Plan: Fios 300 Mbps
Base Monthly Cost: $49.99/month (with Auto Pay)
Installation Fee: $0 (if waived for online order)
Router Rental: $0 (included)
Estimated Monthly Total: ~$49.99 + taxes/fees
Example B: Mid-Tier 5G Home Internet with Mobile Discount
Plan: 5G Home
Base Monthly Cost: $50.00/month
Mobile + Home Discount: -$15.00/month (if qualifying mobile plan)
Adjusted Monthly Cost: $35.00/month (with Auto Pay)
Installation Fee: $0
Router Rental: $0 (included)
Estimated Monthly Total: ~$35.00 + taxes/fees
Example C: Premium Fios Internet-Only
Plan: Fios 1 Gig
Base Monthly Cost: $89.99/month (with Auto Pay)
Installation Fee: $0 (often waived for this plan)
Router Rental: $0 (included)
Estimated Monthly Total: ~$89.99 + taxes/fees
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
Choosing the right Verizon internet-only plan comes down to a few key factors: availability at your address, desired speed, and your budget. By following this step-by-step guide, you'll be well-equipped to:
Identify available services (Fios, 5G Home, LTE Home).
Understand the core monthly costs for different speed tiers.
Anticipate and account for additional fees like installation.
Strategically apply for discounts such as Auto Pay, Mobile + Home, and ACP.
Don't hesitate to contact Verizon directly or chat with their online representatives to confirm pricing for your specific address and inquire about any unadvertised promotions. Happy surfing!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check Verizon internet availability at my address?
You can easily check Verizon internet availability by visiting the Verizon Fios or Verizon 5G Home Internet sections on their official website and entering your street address and zip code in the availability checker tool.
How to get the best deal on Verizon internet-only plans?
To get the best deal, combine the Auto Pay and paper-free billing discount, and if you're a Verizon mobile customer, ensure you enroll in the Mobile + Home discount. Also, look out for new customer promotions and consider applying for the Affordable Connectivity Program if eligible.
How to avoid installation fees with Verizon Fios?
Often, the $99 Fios installation fee is waived when you order online, especially for higher-speed plans like 1 Gig. Inquire about self-installation options as well.
How to get a free router with Verizon internet?
Verizon Fios internet plans now include the router at no additional monthly charge. Similarly, Verizon 5G Home Internet and LTE Home Internet plans also include the necessary wireless gateway.
How to determine what internet speed I need from Verizon?
Consider your household's internet usage: 300 Mbps is good for basic streaming and Browse, 500 Mbps for heavier streaming and multiple users, and 1 Gig or higher for intense gaming, large file transfers, smart homes, and numerous connected devices.
How to know if Verizon Fios or 5G Home Internet is better for me?
Fios (fiber) generally offers more consistent, symmetrical, and higher speeds, ideal for demanding users. 5G Home Internet (fixed wireless) is a great alternative if Fios isn't available, offering competitive speeds, often at a lower price, especially with a Verizon mobile plan.
How to get unlimited data with Verizon internet?
Both Verizon Fios and Verizon 5G Home Internet plans come with unlimited data and no data caps, so you don't need to worry about overage charges.
How to cancel Verizon internet service without a fee?
Verizon Fios and 5G Home Internet plans typically do not require annual contracts, meaning you can cancel at any time without incurring an early termination fee. Always confirm your specific plan's terms.
How to lower my Verizon internet bill if I'm an existing customer?
If you're an existing customer and your promotional rate has expired, contact Verizon customer service. Inquire about current promotions, the Mobile + Home discount if you have a qualifying mobile plan, or discuss downgrading your speed if your current usage doesn't justify the cost. Sometimes, simply threatening to cancel can lead to better retention offers.
How to improve my Verizon Wi-Fi signal in my home?
For Fios, consider utilizing the Whole-Home Wi-Fi solution with Wi-Fi extenders, often included with 1 Gig/2 Gig plans or available for an additional monthly fee. For all services, ensure your router is centrally located, away from obstructions, and consider upgrading to a newer router if yours is outdated.
