Best Internet Providers in Chicago, Illinois for 2026
Compare the Best Internet Service Providers in Chicago, IL
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | 357.73 | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | 284.45 | Mbps |
| Latency | 9 | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | 284.13 | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | 40.26 | Mbps |
| Latency | 20 | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | 129.29 | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | 20.76 | Mbps |
| Latency | 35 | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Chicago, Illinois, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Not all plans are available in all areas. Provider plan, availability, and speed tier data provided by BroadbandNow.com. Speedtest real-world data is only present where sample size has reached significance within a region. Additionally, averages may include aggregated tests across multiple Internet Types (Fiber, DSL, Cable, etc.).
Whether you’re living in a high-rise in the Loop or a single-family home in Edison Park, finding the right internet service provider means balancing speed, availability, and cost—all while keeping an eye on your household’s unique internet needs. Fortunately, Chicago offers a decent mix of internet providers, from fiber-optic giants to budget-friendly cable and fixed wireless options.
But who’s the fastest ISP in the Windy City? That distinction goes to AT&T Fiber, with median recorded download speeds of 357.73 Mbps and upload speeds of 284.45 Mbps, well ahead of the competition, according to real-world user speed tests taken between July and December 2025.
Chicago Internet Availability by Neighborhood
Broadband access in Chicago is generally solid, but there are coverage differences by neighborhood.
- Loop, West Loop, South Loop: Strong fiber presence from AT&T and Xfinity
- North Side (Lincoln Park, Lakeview): Xfinity dominates, while AT&T Fiber is widely available in Lincoln Park and growing in Lakeview
- South Side (Hyde Park, Bronzeville): Growing fiber availability in this area, but if it’s not available to you yet, T-Mobile and Xfinity offer service
- Far Northwest/Southwest: Cable is more common in this area compared to fiber access
- Suburbs (Evanston, Oak Park): A good mix of cable, fiber, and fixed wireless options
Always check availability at your exact address—providers may vary block by block.
When choosing a plan, think about how your household actually uses the internet. For most households of three to four people watching a moderate amount of streaming video and performing simpler work-from-home tasks such as emailing, Slack, Zoom, etc., a 300 to 500 Mbps plan is more than enough. But for creators, tech professionals, or large households, gigabit speeds and strong upload performance make a noticeable difference.
How to Pick the Right Internet Provider in Chicago
Here are some tips to simplify your decision:
Check Your Address
Many ISPs tout citywide coverage, but the reality is more complicated (like if your building isn’t wired for fiber). Use provider lookup tools or Speedtest’s zip code breakdowns to verify.
Consider More Than Speed
Reliability, customer support, and data caps matter just as much. Many fiber plans, for example, include unlimited data and no equipment rental fees. Watch out for plans that include data caps and extra charges.
Think About Uploads
If you send large files, stream on Twitch, or make frequent video calls, symmetrical upload/download speeds (only offered by fiber) are a game-changer.
Match a Plan to Your Needs
Don’t pay for 1 gigabit if you’re just browsing or streaming a few hours a night. On the flip side, don’t skimp if you’re running a business from home.
Read the Fine Print
Promo rates often expire after 12 months. Check for hidden fees, contracts, or equipment rentals that inflate the total cost.
How Much Speed Do I Need?
Download speeds of at least 100 Mbps and upload speeds of at least 10 Mbps are widely considered fast enough to handle nearly any online activity. A quick guide to what speeds you need for different online activities is below, and you can read our full guide to internet speeds and performance for more information. Keep in mind that the numbers below are the bare minimum for one device at a time. If you’re trying to use multiple devices on a network at the same time, you’ll want higher speeds.
0–5 Mbps (Slow)
- Stream SD video
- Connect on Slack
- Use Microsoft Teams
- Write and read email
- Scroll social media
- General web browsing
5–20 Mbps (Better)
- Stream HD video at 1080p
20–40 Mbps (Solid)
- Stream 4K video
- Play games online
40–100 Mbps (Good)
- Stream HD games
100+ Mbps (Fast)
- Engage in multi-player gaming
- Download huge files
1+ Gbps (Very fast)
- Do anything you want on multiple devices
ISP Speeds in Chicago, IL
According to Speedtest Intelligence®, as of January 2026, Chicago reports the following city-wide median speeds:
| Metric | Result |
|---|---|
| Median download speed | 213.41 Mbps |
| Median upload speed | 37.71 Mbps |
| Median latency | 14 ms |
| Top-performing ISP | AT&T Fiber (357.73 Mbps down / 284.45 Mbps up) |
| Most widely available ISP | Xfinity (99%), AT&T Fiber (91%) |
ISP Speeds in Chicago
Based on Speedtest data collected in the second half of 2025, here’s how the major providers compare:
- AT&T Fiber: Chicago’s fastest provider with 91% coverage. Downloads of 357.73 Mbps, uploads of 284.45 Mbps, and latency around 9 ms. Fiber’s symmetrical upload/download speeds are ideal for hybrid work, creating cloud backups, and video conferencing.
- Xfinity: The most widely available provider with 99% coverage. Downloads of 284.13 Mbps, uploads of 40.26 Mbps, and latency around 20 ms. While upload speeds are limited, Xfinity’s cable network offers strong download speeds that can easily handle streaming, gaming, and remote work.
- Starlink: Satellite internet available citywide with 100% coverage. Downloads of 129.29 Mbps, uploads of 20.76 Mbps, and latency around 35 ms. A viable option for areas underserved by wired providers.
- Spectrum: Cable service covering 33% of Chicago. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market.
- Verizon 5G Home Internet: Covers 39% of Chicago households. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available, but it’s a decent option where fiber or cable isn’t available.
- T-Mobile 5G Home Internet: Covers 63% of the city with contract-free 5G service. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market.
- Rise Broadband: Fixed wireless covering 80% of the city. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available, but it’s best suited for light internet users.
Chicago Fixed Speeds
Download Mbps
Median download speed
Upload Mbps
Median upload speed
Latency ms
Median latency
To be added to this list for mobile or fixed broadband, 75% of a city's monthly unique user totals over a 13-month period must have a minimum of 200 monthly unique user results. To be updated for mobile or fixed broadband, 75% of a city's monthly unique user totals over a 13-month period must have a minimum of 100 monthly unique user results.
An operator or ISP must account for 3% or more of total test samples in the market to be on this list. We display data if at least two operators or ISPs meet this threshold in a designated region or city.
Internet Providers in Nearby Cities
Home Internet in Chicago
At the time of this writing, the average starting price for internet in the Windy City is $56.41, which is in the middle in terms of internet pricing in larger metropolitan areas. Prices span a broad spectrum with some plans starting below this average, so it’s likely you’ll find a plan that meets your specific needs.
Before committing to any plan, keep in mind that real-world internet speeds may differ from advertised speeds, and plan costs can vary based on a range of factors.
Largest Internet Providers in Chicago
AT&T Fiber
- Type: Fiber
- Max speeds: Up to 5,000 Mbps symmetrical
- Best for: Power users, smart homes, large families
- Availability: 91%
- Price range: $34–$255/month
AT&T Fiber is the fastest and most reliable internet you can get in Chicago—if it’s available at your address. With median speeds of 357.73 Mbps down and 284.45 Mbps up, fiber’s symmetrical upload/download speeds are ideal for hybrid work, creating cloud backups, and video conferencing. Plans are reasonably priced, and there are no data caps or required equipment rentals.
Xfinity
- Type: Cable
- Max speeds: Up to 2,000 Mbps download, 200 Mbps upload
- Best for: Most homes, especially those prioritizing speed and bundling
- Availability: 99%
- Price range: $40–$70/month
Xfinity dominates the Chicago area in terms of availability and speed consistency. With median downloads of 284.13 Mbps and uploads of 40.26 Mbps, Xfinity’s cable network offers strong download speeds that can easily handle streaming, gaming, and remote work. Upload speeds, however, are limited—an issue for households who want to post large high-definition videos or livestream in high resolution.
Spectrum
- Type: Cable
- Max speeds: Up to 2,000 Mbps download / 35 Mbps upload
- Best for: Households in Spectrum’s coverage area
- Availability: 33%
- Price range: $30–$90/month
Spectrum covers about a third of Chicago, offering cable service with competitive entry-level pricing. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for Spectrum in this market.
Metronet
- Type: Fiber
- Max speeds: Up to 5,120 Mbps symmetrical
- Best for: Households seeking fiber in limited coverage areas
- Availability: 4%
- Price range: $29.95–$129.95/month
Metronet offers fiber service in select areas of Chicago with competitive pricing. While coverage is limited, it’s worth checking if it’s available at your address.
T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
- Type: Fixed wireless (5G)
- Max speeds: Up to 415 Mbps download, 56 Mbps upload
- Best for: Simple streaming and browsing in areas without wired options
- Availability: 63%
- Price range: $50–$70/month
T-Mobile’s home internet service runs on its 5G network, offering a contract-free and equipment-included option for light to moderate internet users. Speeds can fluctuate based on congestion and signal strength, so it’s not ideal for gamers or remote professionals.
Verizon 5G Home Internet
- Type: Fixed Wireless (5G)
- Max speeds: Up to 1,000 Mbps download, 75 Mbps upload
- Best for: Flexible, contract-free service
- Availability: 39%
- Price range: $35–$75/month
Verizon’s 5G Home Internet is available to just under 40% of households in the Chicago area, and it’s a decent option where fiber or cable isn’t available. If you’re looking for a contract-free setup and moderate performance, it could fit the bill.
Rise Broadband
- Type: Fixed Wireless
- Max speeds: Up to 100 Mbps download, 50 Mbps upload
- Best for: Basic browsing and email in rural or low-connectivity areas
- Availability: 80%
- Price range: $25–$35/month
Rise Broadband covers about 80% of the city with affordable fixed wireless service. It’s best suited for light internet users who mostly browse the web or stream in standard definition.
Satellite Internet Options in Chicago
Most Chicago households won’t need satellite internet due to strong wired and 5G coverage. But for residents in areas underserved by terrestrial providers, satellite may fill the gap.
- Starlink: Downloads of 129.29 Mbps, uploads of 20.76 Mbps, 35 ms latency; $59–$165/month
- Viasat: Max speeds up to 150 Mbps / 3 Mbps; $69.99–$119.99/month
- Hughesnet: Max speeds up to 100 Mbps / 5 Mbps; $39.99–$119.99/month
FAQs
What is the fastest internet provider in Chicago?
With median recorded download speeds of 357.73 Mbps and upload speeds of 284.45 Mbps, the fastest ISP in the Windy City is AT&T Fiber.
Does Chicago have fiber internet?
Yes it does, and tapping this technology will get you the fastest internet speeds in the city if you go with AT&T. Fiber-based internet is also offered by Metronet in select areas. Check with these companies to see if fiber internet is available at your address.
Could I get free internet in Chicago?
One program that provides free internet is Chicago Connected, which provides no-cost, high-speed internet service to Chicago Public Schools students and their families. According to the city’s website, students may qualify for either high-speed internet or a district-provided hotspot at no cost. To see if you’re eligible, visit cps.edu/getconnected. You can also get online for free using public Wi-Fi at Chicago Public Library locations. Branches also let you check out hotspots.
Speedtest TL;DR
Chicago has no shortage of internet options—but your experience will depend heavily on where you live and how you use the web. Xfinity is the most widely available, AT&T Fiber is the fastest and uses the latest technology, and T-Mobile offers a solid option at a decent price.
Before signing up, check your address, compare total monthly costs (including fees), and weigh what really matters to your household: speed, reliability, or cost.
How we test the speed of ISPs
Speedtest is the definitive way to test the performance and quality of an internet connection. Millions of users like you use Speedtest.net and our Android and iOS apps every day to test internet performance (including bandwidth, latency, coverage, video metrics, and more) in real world situations. We then use rigorous scientific approaches to aggregate and anonymize those results to empower people like you with content like this so you can understand and optimize your internet experience.
The data found within has not been subjected to the rigorous Speedtest marketing claims and data methodology, and therefore cannot be used in commercial applications. Additionally, promised speeds and plans offered are always subject to change.
How to test your internet speed
Speedtest can help you test the speed and overall performance of your internet for free from any device. Click here to open a new page and take a Speedtest. You can then compare your results with what you’ve learned about internet performance near you. If you aren’t getting the results you expect, you can either use this guide to use your Speedtest results to talk to your internet provider or you can shop for a new provider.