Top Internet Providers in Alaska
| Internet Provider |
Starting Monthly Cost |
Download Speed |
Technology |
State Availability |
| GCI |
$74.99/mo |
200 Mbps to 2 |
Cable, Fiber |
69% |
| Alaska Communications |
$49.99/month |
250 Mbps to 2.5 Gig |
Fiber |
44% |
| Borealis Broadband |
$40/month |
3 Mbps to 30 Mbps |
Fixed Wireless |
26% |
| Matanuska Telephone Association |
$69.99/month |
3 Mbps to 125 Mbps |
DSL |
19% |
Rural Internet Options
Rural Alaska residents often have to choose between satellite, fixed wireless, or DSL connections.
DSL, offered by local companies, utilizes existing telephone cooperatives' infrastructure, but it
may have slower top speeds compared to cable or fiber.
However, GCI is actively working on network expansions into rural areas. Their AU-Aleutians Fiber
Project aims to bring high-speed connections to communities in remote locations. Other local ISPs,
such as Mountain Beam and Borealis Broadband, offer fixed WiFi in Alaska but this can be expensive
for top-end speeds.
Comparing fixed wireless to satellite plans, Starlink stands out with its potential for higher top
speeds, though the initial equipment fee can be steep.
Alaska Broadband Details at a Glance
While the FCC data suggests that over 93% of Alaskan residents can access broadband speeds, this
includes satellite internet, which isn't always the best solution due to cost and lack of a clear
view of the sky. Fiber access is limited, with only about 6% of residents having access to fiber,
and even fewer can access gig speeds.
Building extensive T-Mobile coverage in Alaska is challenging due to the state's remote areas and
rugged terrain. Nonetheless, there are some pockets of fiber service, such as Copper Valley Telecom
providing speeds up to 1,000Mbps in Valdez.
How Fast is Broadband in Alaska?
Fast Alaska internet can be scarce, with only about 75% of homes having access to speeds of at least 100Mbps.
At gigabit speeds, the availability drops significantly to just 4.5%. Ookla's
Speedtest ranking places Alaska
at the bottom of state speeds, with a median download speed of around 86Mbps, compared to the national
average of 207Mbps.
GCI is recognized as the fastest provider in Alaska by Ookla, with a median download speed of 250Mbps.
However, these speeds can vary by location, and the bigger cities tend to have higher speeds.
Internet Pricing in Alaska
Internet prices in Alaska are higher than in the contiguous 48 states. While GCI and Alaska Communications
offer WiFi Alaska under $100, speeds can vary based on location and connection type. Many budget-friendly
services available in other states are not accessible in Alaska.
Internet for Low-Income Households in Alaska
The federal Affordable Connectivity Program offers financial assistance to qualified low-income households in Alaska,
helping reduce their monthly internet bills. Most ISPs in the state participate in this program, with some offering
specific plans for ACP customers.
Future of Broadband in Alaska
Alaska's unique challenges, including its harsh weather and remote locations, have historically hindered broadband expansion.
However, with over $1 billion in federal funding dedicated to broadband expansion and ambitious projects by providers like GCI,
the state is poised to improve internet access in unserved and underserved communities.
While fiber access remains limited, initiatives like Cordova Telecom Cooperative's submarine fiber optic cable project and USDA
funding for fiber and wireless internet in various areas offer hope for a brighter digital future in Alaska.
Conclusion
So, Alaska's internet landscape presents challenges, but there are promising developments on the horizon.
For Alaskans, the dream of high-speed, reliable internet is becoming more attainable due to T-Mobile in
Alaska, thanks to ongoing efforts and investments in the state's digital infrastructure. As the broadband
landscape continues to evolve, Alaskans can look forward to improved access and connectivity in the Last
Frontier.
