Americans are fed up with how much they pay for internet-based services and are taking steps to reduce their bills, according to a recent report from Reviews.org, following up its 2025 Consumer Trust Survey.
Another closely related takeaway was that people resent being surprised by hidden costs. The report found that 67% switched or considered switching internet providers if they feel their provider has hidden fees or presented them with unexpected charges. That figure was up from 56% last year.
“The most important aspect of pricing for consumers is knowing their total price rather than an advertised price that comes with hidden fees: 88% of respondents believe all fees should be included in advertised pricing,” the report said.
Other highlights from the report:
- 71% reported that the price of their home internet services has increased over the past year.
- 73% of consumers said that their internet bills have risen this year, which was up from 43% last year’s report.
- 30 percent of those affected said their monthly price increased by $10 to $20.
- 30% say they either canceled or downgraded their internet service during the past year due to cost.
The report found that people feel misled (65% of respondents, up from 59% last year). They are considering switching due to what they feel are hidden fees (67%; 56%), with many contacting customer support about a bill (66%; 55%). The report found that 44% of respondents are familiar with or trust the transparency of the FCC’s Broadband Facts label.
Electronic services were the top four cancelled or downgraded. Streaming subscriptions, at 48.97%, easily had the most downgrades. It was followed by cable and satellite TV services (all at about 30%). The only non-electronic cancellation/downgrade was insurance (renters, auto or home), at 25.67%.
The results jibe with a report released in October by Airties, a company that helps broadband service providers offer optimal connectivity. That report found that 28% of American households are considering switching their Internet provider.
