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Rhode Island may be the smallest state (by land area), but it played a big part in U.S. history. As the first state to declare independence from Great Britain in 1776, this little “island” set some major events in motion.
Nowadays, Rhode Island’s 1.1 million residents enjoy its 400 miles of coastline and scenic beaches, delicious seafood, and many quaint New England towns. But for the day-to-day, they need reliable home Wi-Fi.
“Little Rhody” may have a small list of internet providers compared to other states, but there are several high-speed options for locals to choose from. Read on to compare the top internet service providers in Rhode Island.
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Best internet providers in Rhode Island
Given its small size, Rhode Island has a limited list of options for home internet providers. However, there are still multi-gigabit internet plans available, along with a variety of different connection types. Verizon and Cox are the most popular options in the state, but T-Mobile also offers service in roughly two-thirds of Rhode Island.
More rural residents can access internet from satellite providers who offer service throughout the state. The following table provides an overview of the top internet providers in Rhode Island.
*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Price may include autopay and paperless billing discounts. Speeds may vary.
**When bundled with a qualifying mobile plan.
Methodology
We rated the largest internet providers in the U.S. for 2025. Each provider was rated on a scale of 1 to 5 based on over a dozen factors, including speed, cost, availability, fees, customer satisfaction, connection type and more. We also used data from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to compare the average speed offered by internet companies in the U.S. to set a baseline for what is considered a good internet speed. Additionally, we analyzed data from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) to understand how each internet service provider (ISP) fares in customer service and perceived value.
Internet technology in Rhode Island
Rhode Island internet providers offer a range of connection types, each with its pros and cons for home Wi-Fi performance. For instance, while satellite internet providers like Hughesnet and Viasat are available throughout the state, connection speeds are slower, and you’ll need to install a dish on your property.
5G fixed wireless connections through providers like Verizon can offer download speeds of up to 1 GB, but availability is fairly limited in Rhode Island. Cable and fiber are much more accessible in the state, offering fast, reliable connectivity. However, fiber internet is your best bet for lag-free, symmetrical upload and download speeds.
Connection type
Starting price
Speeds up to
Availability***
Satellite
$49.99–$149.99/mo.
250 Mbps
100%
Cable
$39.99–$120/mo.
2,000 Mbps
91%
Fixed wireless
$35**–$70/mo.
1,000 Mbps
18%
Fiber
$34.99–$89.99/mo.
1,000 Mbps
75%
Disclaimers
*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Price may include autopay and paperless billing discounts. Speeds may vary.
**When bundled with a qualifying mobile plan.
***Download speeds of at least 100 Mbps.
Top Rhode Island cities
As in any state, provider availability varies by city in Rhode Island. Residents in Providence may have a different set of options than those in Warwick or Cranston, for instance. While satellite service is available everywhere, you’ll find more variability in your choices for fixed wireless, cable or fiber based on where you live. Be sure to search for providers in your area using your home address.
Cheap internet options in Rhode Island
Although your options for internet service may be more limited in Rhode Island, you can still keep costs affordable. Cheap internet service is available from providers like Verizon, T-Mobile and I3 Broadband. You can get online for less than $50/mo. with these Rhode Island ISPs — toward the lower end of the national average internet price of $40–$80/mo. Keep in mind that you may need to bundle services to get the best deal.
Fast internet options in Rhode Island
Need more bandwidth for the online gamers or heavy streamers in your house? You’ve likely got options in Rhode Island. High-speed fiber and cable service are widely available, with connections of up to 2 GB in some parts of the state. Verizon’s Fios fiber internet is broadly accessible in the region and offers symmetrical gigabit upload and download speeds.
If you’re unsure how much speed you need, check out our internet speed guide for guidance.
Rural internet options in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is densely populated, but many customers still live outside major urban centers. Internet service can be spotty in rural areas, leaving customers without many options. If you’re struggling to find service in your area, check out satellite plans from Hughesnet, Viasat or Starlink. Each of these providers offers service throughout Rhode Island, though connection speeds vary based on where you live.
Rhode Island internet FAQs
Is Xfinity internet available in Rhode Island?
Xfinity has limited coverage in a few parts of Rhode Island, but the company reaches less than 2% of the state. Cox is the primary cable internet provider in Rhode Island.
What is the average internet bill in Rhode Island?
Internet pricing depends on numerous factors, including bandwidth, provider, connection type and more. The average monthly internet bill in Rhode Island is around $20/mo., but you’ll pay more for faster and/or more reliable connections. Some plans also charge extra for equipment, installation and taxes.
How do I know if a provider is serviceable for me in Rhode Island?
Checking coverage in your area is relatively simple. You can search for provider availability in your area on the FCC’s National Broadband Map or enter your address on the specific page for the provider you’re interested in.
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Luke Daugherty is a freelance writer, editor, and former operations manager. His work covers a wide range of topics, including streaming and internet tech, green energy, and personal finance. His work, bylined and ghostwritten, has appeared in The Balance, CNET, CIO Magazine, Entrepreneur, and more.
Hannah Whatley is an editor who enjoys collaborating with writers to offer readers the most relevant, accurate, and up-to-date information for their home purchases. She has previously edited for The Motley Fool, The Modest Wallet, Grammarly, JoinCake.com and SaveOnEnergy.com, gaining expertise in several industries. Hannah has a B.A. in English from Thomas Edison State University. When she isn’t editing, she enjoys studying linguistics and lang
