2024 Broadband/Internet Availability Survey Report

This annual survey offers insights into how rural networks are evolving and highlights the challenges and successes of delivering broadband in less densely populated areas. Highlights include:

• In 2024, NTCA members continued to lead the charge in deploying networks that empower increasingly higher downstream and upstream speeds in rural communities. Despite operating in rural areas where the average density is less than seven locations per mile, approximately 89% of respondents’ customers on average can receive downstream speeds greater than or equal to 100 Mbps, up from 84% in 2023. Over 76% of customers on average have access to Gigabit downstream speeds, an increase from 67% in 2023. Upload speeds that are important for critical user applications like video conferencing, remote work and online learning continue to increase as well, with nearly 85% of respondents’ customers on average realizing upload speeds of 100 Mbps or higher and 68% of customers on average having access to Gigabit upstream capability, up from 61% in 2023. These improvements in customer experience are driven by continuing efforts to expand the reach of robust and reliable underlying networks.
• These investments are yielding benefits for American consumers and competitiveness – customers are eager to use higher speeds as they become available. Over 67% of respondents’ customers on average subscribe to 100 Mbps downstream broadband or better, up from just under 60% in the 2023 survey. And for the third consecutive year, the 2024 survey found that subscriptions for 100 Mbps and higher speed downstream services are more popular than lower-speed offerings.
• These network investments are efficient, delivering high levels of reliable capacity not only for residential users but anchor institutions and enterprises in these rural communities as well. The survey report indicates material progress – building upon already high levels of success – in connecting key institutions in rural America with fiber, including the vast majority of schools, public safety entities, 911 call centers, and hospitals in their serving areas.