Internet Providers in Chicago, IL

Overview of Chicago Providers

If you’re in need of new internet in Chicago, Illinois, there are plenty of options to choose from. According to the FCC, over 98% of Chicago homes have access to internet speeds of up to 250 Mbps or higher. Depending on where you live, you’ll likely have as many as three providers near you.

Currently, Chicago has a population of 2.7 million people. Naturally, this causes more providers to want to compete, which helps drive down internet costs and increase consumer options. Some of the top providers in Chicago include AT&T, WOW!, and Xfinity.

Internet Statistics for Chicago, Illinois

Nicknamed the Windy City, Chicago perfectly combines city life with the outdoors. It’s also home to some of the biggest art and medical districts in the United States, which attract thousands of people each month. Currently, Chicago ranks #1 as the most internet-connected city in Illinois as of when this page was written, followed by Aurora and Rockford.

Whether you live in the heart of downtown Chicago or prefer the outer suburbs, you can expect to find at least three or more internet service providers to connect your home. Overall, Chicagoans have above-average access to fast internet speeds thanks to their population size and big industries. 

Compare Internet Service Providers in Chicago

Pricing, speeds, offers, and availability vary by service address and are subject to change at any time. Additional fees, taxes, and terms may apply. As of October/2022.

Types of Internet Available in Chicago

A wide variety of internet connections are available in Chicago, Illinois including 5G, fiber, cable, DSL, satellite, and fixed wireless. Overall, cable internet and DSL are the primary types of internet in Chicago, with over 99% coverage by one or more providers. Fiber networks are steadily growing, though, with nearly 46% of coverage city-wide. 

• Fiber: Fiber internet offers users symmetrical speeds at affordable prices. While a few providers deliver up to 10 Gbps, most fiber plans come with speeds up to 1000 Mbps.

• Cable: A better alternative to DSL, cable internet delivers service over existing TV lines. This provides wide availability and potential download speeds up to 1000 Mbps.

• DSL: DSL internet runs on existing telephone lines. It’s more available than cable or fiber internet and can deliver download speeds up to 150 Mbps in select areas.

• Satellite: Satellite internet is available virtually anywhere in the US, with speeds ranging from 25 to 150 Mbps. This makes it a great option for those living in more remote areas.

• Fixed-Wireless: Fixed-wireless internet delivers service using radio towers. It typically offers lower latency than satellite internet but often comes with a data cap.

• 5G: 5G networks run on three different bands with speeds up to 100 Mbps, 1000 Mbps, or 10 Gbps. This allows for faster speeds, lower latency, and increased connectivity.

Please keep in mind that while the types of internet listed above do exist in Chicago, availability depends entirely on your location. There may be far more or far less coverage depending on the district – or even the street – where you live.