What You’ll Pay for Internet in Cary
As of 2025, the average internet bill in Cary ranges from $45 to $100 per month, depending on your speed and provider. Most residents can expect to pay around $65 per month for a 200 Mbps plan, which is suitable for households with multiple devices and moderate streaming needs.
The most common internet providers in Cary include Spectrum, AT&T, and Google Fiber. Spectrum offers cable internet with speeds up to 1000 Mbps, while AT&T and Google Fiber provide fiber-optic service in select neighborhoods. Prices and availability may vary depending on your location within the city.
For budget-conscious households, a basic 25 Mbps plan from Spectrum starts at around $50 per month. However, this may not be sufficient for households with heavy streaming or gaming needs. On the higher end, a gigabit fiber plan from AT&T or Google Fiber can cost upwards of $90 per month.
What’s Included in a Typical Bundle?
Many Cary residents opt for bundled packages that include internet, cable TV, and streaming services. These bundles can offer significant savings compared to purchasing each service separately. However, it’s important to carefully review the terms and pricing of each bundle to ensure you’re getting the best value for your needs.
A typical internet and cable TV bundle in Cary might include:
- 200 Mbps internet service
- Basic or expanded cable TV package with 100+ channels
- One or more premium channels (e.g., HBO, Showtime)
- DVR service
- Streaming app access (e.g., ESPN+, Fox Sports Go)
Some providers also offer bundles that include popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+. These can be a good option for households that primarily watch streaming content and want to simplify their monthly bills. However, be sure to compare the cost of the bundle to the standalone prices of each service to ensure you’re getting a good deal.
Streaming Service Costs in 2025
For many Cary households, streaming services have become a popular alternative or complement to traditional cable TV. Here’s a breakdown of the monthly costs for some of the most popular streaming services as of 2025:
| Service | Monthly Price | Simultaneous Streams | Offline Downloads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Netflix Standard | $19.99 | 2 | Yes |
| Disney+ Premium | $14.99 | 4 | Yes |
| Amazon Prime Video | $14.99 (or included with Prime membership) | 3 | Yes |
| Hulu (Ad-Free) | $14.99 | 2 | Yes (on select content) |
| YouTube TV | $84.99 | 3 | Yes (on select content) |
🏆 Winner: For families, the Disney+ Premium plan offers the best value with a wide selection of content and up to 4 simultaneous streams. Solo viewers on a budget may prefer Netflix Standard or Hulu Ad-Free for their mix of original and licensed programming.
Tips to Save on Internet and Streaming
While internet and streaming costs can add up quickly, there are several ways Cary residents can save on their monthly bills:
- Take advantage of promotions: Many providers offer discounts or gift cards for new customers. Check provider websites or contact them directly to learn about current offers.
- Bundle services: As mentioned above, bundling internet with TV and/or streaming can often result in a lower overall bill than purchasing each service separately.
- Negotiate with your provider: If you’re a long-time customer or are considering switching providers, don’t be afraid to negotiate for a better rate or additional perks.
- Cut the cord: If you primarily watch streaming content, consider ditching cable TV altogether and opting for a standalone internet plan and your favorite streaming services.
- Use public Wi-Fi: Take advantage of free public Wi-Fi at libraries, cafes, and other locations to reduce your data usage at home.
- Rotate subscriptions: If you subscribe to multiple streaming services, consider rotating them every few months to save money while still enjoying a variety of content.
Do You Need Fast Internet in Cary?
The internet speed you need in Cary will depend on your household’s online activities and the number of connected devices. For example, a household with multiple people working or learning from home may require faster speeds than a single person who primarily uses the internet for browsing and email.
Here are some general guidelines for internet speeds based on common online activities:
- Browsing and email: 25 Mbps
- Streaming HD video: 50 Mbps
- Streaming 4K video: 100 Mbps
- Online gaming: 100 Mbps
- Remote work: 100+ Mbps
Keep in mind that these are minimum recommendations, and actual speeds may vary based on factors like network congestion and the quality of your home’s wiring. In Cary, a 200 Mbps plan typically costs around $65 per month and should be sufficient for most households.
It’s also worth noting that fiber internet, which offers the fastest and most reliable speeds, may only be available in select Cary neighborhoods. If fiber isn’t an option for you, cable or DSL service may still meet your needs depending on your location and online habits.
Streaming FAQs
What’s the cheapest way to stream TV in Cary?
The cheapest way to stream TV in Cary is to opt for a standalone internet plan and subscribe to one or two low-cost streaming services like Netflix or Hulu. This can be significantly cheaper than a traditional cable TV package.
Is fiber internet available in Cary?
Fiber internet is available in some Cary neighborhoods through providers like AT&T and Google Fiber. However, availability may be limited depending on your specific location. Check provider websites or contact them directly to see if fiber is an option for your home.
How much do bundles actually save?
The amount you can save with a bundle will depend on the specific services and pricing in your area. In general, bundling internet with TV and/or streaming can save you around $20 to $50 per month compared to purchasing each service separately. However, it’s important to compare the cost and features of different bundles to ensure you’re getting the best value for your needs.
Budgeting Smarter in Cary
When it comes to internet and streaming costs in Cary, the key is to find the right balance of speed, features, and price for your household’s needs. On average, most residents can expect to pay between $100 and $200 per month for internet, streaming, and possibly cable TV.
For example, a household with two adults who work from home and two children who stream video and play online games might opt for a 400 Mbps internet plan ($80), a YouTube TV subscription ($85), and a Disney+ Premium plan ($15) for a total of $180 per month.
Of course, your actual costs will depend on your specific needs and preferences. By understanding the options available in Cary and following the tips outlined above, you can create a customized plan that keeps you connected and entertained without breaking the bank.
For more information on budgeting for utilities and other expenses in Cary, check out our guide to Cary Utility Costs Explained.