What You’ll Pay for Internet in Des Plaines
In 2025, the average U.S. household is projected to spend $116 per month on digital media, including internet, streaming services, and digital subscriptions. In Des Plaines, IL, internet costs alone make up a significant portion of that total.
The average internet bill in Des Plaines is $75/month for a typical 200 Mbps plan. However, prices can range from $50 to over $100 depending on the provider and speed tier chosen. The most common internet providers in the area include Xfinity, AT&T, and WOW!, each offering a variety of plans to fit different household needs and budgets.
For budget-conscious consumers, a 100 Mbps plan typically costs around $50/month, while those requiring faster speeds for activities like gaming or remote work can expect to pay closer to $80-$100/month for speeds of 400-1,000 Mbps. Availability of specific plans and pricing may vary by neighborhood.
What’s Included in a Typical Bundle?
Many Des Plaines residents opt for bundled packages that combine internet with cable TV and/or streaming services. These bundles often provide cost savings compared to purchasing each service separately. A basic internet + TV bundle typically includes:
- Internet with speeds of 100-200 Mbps
- Basic cable package with local channels and popular networks
- 1-2 streaming services (e.g., Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+)
- Modem/router rental
Higher-tier bundles may include faster internet speeds, premium cable channels, additional streaming services, and perks like unlimited data or free installation. The main difference between bundle tiers is the number of included services and features. Pricing for bundles in Des Plaines ranges from around $90 to over $200/month.
Some popular streaming services included in Des Plaines bundles are YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Xfinity’s own Flex streaming platform. Customers can often customize their bundle by choosing which specific streaming services to include.
Streaming Service Costs in 2025
For those who prefer to forego traditional cable altogether, subscribing to individual streaming services is an increasingly popular option. Here’s a breakdown of what top streaming services cost in 2025:
| Service | Monthly Price | Simultaneous Streams |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix Standard | $19.99 | 2 |
| Hulu (Ad-Free) | $14.99 | 2 |
| Disney+ Bundle (w/ Hulu & ESPN+) | $24.99 | 4 |
| Amazon Prime Video | $10.99 | 3 |
| YouTube TV | $74.99 | 3 |
🏆 Winner: For solo viewers, Netflix offers the best value at $19.99/month, but for families, the Disney+ bundle with Hulu and ESPN+ provides the most cost-effective package at $24.99/month.
Tips to Save on Internet and Streaming
There are several ways for Des Plaines residents to save money on their monthly internet and streaming bills:
- Take advantage of promotional offers from providers like Xfinity and AT&T, which often include discounted rates for the first 12-24 months of service.
- Consider cutting the cord on traditional cable and relying on streaming services instead. Many Des Plaines residents save $50+ per month with this approach.
- If you primarily use mobile devices, see if your cellular provider offers discounted or free streaming subscriptions as part of your mobile plan.
- Rotate your streaming subscriptions every few months so you’re only paying for services you’re actively using. Most allow you to cancel and restart whenever.
- Take advantage of free trials to test out new services before committing to a monthly subscription.
- Check if you qualify for discounted internet through programs like Xfinity’s Internet Essentials or AT&T’s Access.
By strategically bundling services, cutting unnecessary subscriptions, and leveraging promotions, most Des Plaines households can reduce their monthly internet and streaming costs by 20% or more compared to average rates.
Do You Need Fast Internet in Des Plaines?
The speed of internet you need in Des Plaines largely depends on your household’s online activities and number of connected devices. A 200 Mbps plan typically costs around $75/month and is sufficient for most households of 2-4 people to stream HD video, game, and work remotely simultaneously.
For lighter use like browsing and checking email, speeds of 50-100 Mbps are usually adequate. Households with 5+ heavy internet users may want speeds of 400+ Mbps to ensure smooth streaming and low latency. Rural areas of Des Plaines may have more limited options, with cable and DSL being the primary choices.
Fiber internet, which offers speeds up to 1,000 Mbps, is becoming more widely available in Des Plaines neighborhoods through providers like AT&T. However, availability is still limited compared to other suburbs closer to Chicago. If fiber is an option at your address, it provides the best combination of speed and reliability.
Streaming FAQs
What’s the cheapest way to stream live TV in Des Plaines?
Sling TV offers plans starting at $40/month, making it one of the most affordable options for streaming live TV in Des Plaines. You can also watch local channels for free using a digital antenna.
Is fiber internet available in Des Plaines?
Fiber internet is available in some parts of Des Plaines through AT&T, but coverage is still limited as of 2025. It’s more widely available in nearby suburbs like Arlington Heights and Schaumburg.
How much do internet and TV bundles actually save?
Bundling internet and TV services in Des Plaines can typically save you $20-$50/month compared to purchasing them separately, depending on the provider and plan. However, carefully evaluate your needs, as cutting cable in favor of streaming may result in greater savings.
Budgeting Smarter in Des Plaines
Overall, Des Plaines residents can expect to pay between $50 and $150 per month for internet and streaming services in 2025, with most households falling around the $100/month mark. By carefully selecting plans and taking advantage of promotions, it’s possible to enjoy reliable connectivity and diverse TV content while keeping within your budget.
For most, a smart combination would be 200 Mbps internet at $75/month plus 2-3 streaming services that offer a mix of live and on-demand content for an additional $50-$75/month. This setup provides plenty of speed for a typical household along with a robust content library to rival traditional cable.
As the digital media landscape continues to evolve, stay informed about new offerings and competitors in the Des Plaines market. Regularly evaluate your household’s usage and be open to switching things up to optimize your costs. For more tips, check out our guide on Monthly Utility Expenses in Des Plaines.