Internet Providers in New York, NY
New York City is one of the few US markets where fiber, cable and 5G home internet all compete. Which one you can get depends on your exact building, not just your ZIP code. Here is how the main options compare across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island.
Last reviewed: October 2026. Plans, prices and availability change often. Confirm with the provider for your address.
Top internet providers in NYC
Verizon Fios
Fiber with symmetrical speeds, which means uploads are as fast as downloads. Strong pick for remote work, video calls and gaming.
- Plans from about 300 Mbps up to multi-gig tiers
- Available in much of all five boroughs, building by building
- Often no data caps and no annual contract
Spectrum
Cable internet with broad coverage across the city and fast download speeds. Uploads are slower than fiber, so heavy upload users may notice.
- Plans from roughly 500 Mbps to multi-gig in select areas
- Free modem included on most plans
- Good for streaming and multi-device homes
Optimum
Altice's service has a strong presence in Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and parts of Manhattan, with fiber upgrades rolling out in many buildings.
- Plans from about 500 Mbps up to multi-gig fiber tiers
- Frequent promotions for new customers
- Coverage varies a lot by neighborhood
T-Mobile Home Internet
Wireless home internet that arrives with a simple plug-in gateway. A good fit for renters who want a quick setup or a backup connection.
- Speeds depend on tower distance and building materials
- Flat monthly pricing, no installation visit
- Check the address tool before you order
Verizon 5G Home
Fixed wireless using Verizon's 5G network. Useful in buildings where fiber has not reached yet, and it can pair with a Verizon mobile plan.
- Typical speeds suit streaming and everyday work
- Quick self-install
- Performance varies by block
Quick comparison
| Provider | Type | Typical speed range | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon Fios | Fiber | 300 Mbps to multi-gig | Remote work, gaming, uploads |
| Spectrum | Cable | 500 Mbps to multi-gig | Streaming, large households |
| Optimum | Cable / Fiber | 500 Mbps to multi-gig | Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx deals |
| T-Mobile Home Internet | 5G wireless | Varies by location | Renters, no-contract setup |
| Verizon 5G Home | 5G wireless | Varies by location | Buildings without fiber |
Internet by borough
Manhattan
Dense high-rises mean availability depends on the building's wiring. Fios and Spectrum are both common, and many newer buildings offer fiber. Ask your building manager which providers are already wired in.
Brooklyn
The most competitive borough for home internet. Fios, Optimum and Spectrum overlap in many neighborhoods, so it pays to compare offers before signing up.
Queens
Fios and Optimum are the usual leaders, with Spectrum in some areas. Many single-family homes can choose between all three.
The Bronx
Optimum and Fios cover large parts of the borough. Low-income plans from these providers are worth checking for eligible households.
Staten Island
Spectrum and Fios are the main wired options, with 5G home internet as a useful backup in areas with weaker wired choices.
Low-income internet plans in NYC
The federal Affordable Connectivity Program has ended, but several providers still run their own discounted plans for qualifying households. Look at Verizon Fios Forward, Optimum Advantage Internet and Spectrum Internet Assist. Eligibility usually depends on programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI or the National School Lunch Program. Rules and prices change, so verify on the provider's page.
How to choose the right NYC plan
Start with your building. In NYC, the best provider is the one wired into your address. Enter your exact street address and unit on each provider's site.
Match speed to your household. One or two people streaming and browsing do fine with 300 to 500 Mbps. A home with several remote workers, gamers or 4K streams benefits from 1 Gig or more.
Care about uploads? If you video call all day or upload large files, fiber's symmetrical speeds make a real difference over cable.
Read the fine print. Check the promotional price length, equipment fees, contract terms and what the price becomes after the promo ends.
Renting? Ask your landlord before ordering. Installation inside the unit may need building permission, and wireless 5G options skip that step.
Not sure what is available at your address?
Check the providers above with your exact address, or contact us and we will help you compare.
Get help comparing plansFrequently asked questions
What is the fastest internet provider in New York City?
Verizon Fios, Optimum and Spectrum all offer multi-gig plans in parts of NYC. Fios fiber generally has the most consistent upload speeds because it is symmetrical.
Can I get Verizon Fios in every NYC borough?
Fios is available across much of all five boroughs, but coverage is building by building. Enter your exact address with the provider to confirm.
Are there low-income internet plans in New York City?
Yes. Verizon Fios Forward, Optimum Advantage Internet and Spectrum Internet Assist are discounted plans for qualifying households. Eligibility rules apply.
Is 5G home internet a good option in NYC?
It can be a good backup or a no-contract option, especially in buildings without fiber. Speeds vary by tower distance and building materials.