
What You’ll Pay for Internet in Richardson
Internet prices in Richardson can range from $45 to $100 per month, depending on the provider and speed tier you choose. The average internet bill in Richardson is $65/month for a typical 200 Mbps plan. This is in line with what you’d pay in most mid-sized U.S. cities.
The main internet providers in Richardson are AT&T, Spectrum, and Frontier. AT&T and Frontier offer fiber service in select neighborhoods, while Spectrum provides cable internet across most of the city. Expect to pay around $50/month for a basic 100 Mbps plan, $65/month for 200-300 Mbps, and $80+ for gigabit speeds.
Keep in mind that introductory rates often expire after 12 months, so your bill may increase in your second year of service. However, providers frequently run promotions for new customers, so it pays to shop around or negotiate with your current provider when your initial contract is up.
What’s Included in a Typical Bundle?
Many Richardson residents opt for a bundled package that combines internet, cable TV, and sometimes a streaming service. Bundles can offer convenience and savings compared to purchasing these services separately. A basic bundle typically includes:
- Internet with speeds of 100-300 Mbps
- Basic or standard cable package with 100+ channels
- Optional: A streaming service like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV
Higher-tier bundles may feature gigabit internet speeds, premium channel packages (HBO, Showtime, sports networks), and additional streaming subscriptions like Disney+ or ESPN+. These comprehensive bundles can cost $150 to $200+ per month.
However, as more viewers cut the cord on traditional cable, providers are offering internet-only plans paired with their own streaming services. For example, AT&T heavily promotes its AT&T TV platform. Consider your viewing habits and budget to determine if a larger bundle makes sense, or if an internet-only plan with standalone streaming services would be more cost-effective.
Streaming Service Costs in 2025
The streaming landscape continues to evolve, with new services and shifting prices. Here’s a snapshot of what top streaming platforms cost in 2025:
Service | Monthly Price | Standout Content |
---|---|---|
Netflix | $15.99 (Standard) | Stranger Things, The Crown |
Disney+ | $9.99 | Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar films |
Hulu | $12.99 (with ads) | The Handmaid’s Tale, network TV |
Amazon Prime Video | $14.99 (or $139/year) | The Boys, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel |
YouTube TV | $64.99 | 85+ live channels, unlimited DVR |
π Winner: For solo viewers, Netflix offers a solid mix of original shows and movies for $15.99/month. But for families, the Disney+ bundle with Hulu and ESPN+ ($19.99/month) provides the most well-rounded and cost-effective package.
Tips to Save on Internet and Streaming
While internet and streaming costs can add up, there are ways for Richardson residents to save:
- Shop for promo deals: Providers like AT&T, Spectrum, and Frontier frequently offer introductory rates or gift card incentives for new customers. Check provider websites or call to inquire about current promotions.
- Cut the cord: Replacing traditional cable with streaming services can significantly lower your monthly TV costs, especially if you’re not regularly watching most of your cable channels.
- Use public Wi-Fi: Take advantage of free public internet at libraries, coffee shops, and other local businesses to reduce data usage on your home network.
- Negotiate your rate: If your promotional rate has expired and your bill suddenly spikes, contact your provider and ask for a loyalty discount or to match a competitor’s offer. They may lower your rate to keep you as a customer.
- Rotate subscriptions: With so many streaming options, you don’t need to keep them all year-round. Activate and pause services depending on which shows you’re currently watching to optimize your entertainment budget.
Many Richardson residents save money by using streaming services in place of traditional cable. By strategically combining services and taking advantage of bundle discounts, you can significantly reduce your monthly TV costs while still having plenty to watch.
Do You Need Fast Internet in Richardson?
Internet speed requirements ultimately depend on your household’s online activities. A 200 Mbps plan in Richardson typically costs $65/month, which is sufficient for most families to stream HD video, play casual online games, and browse the web on multiple devices.
However, certain situations may necessitate faster speeds:
- Remote work: If you regularly video conference or transfer large files for your job, you may need 300 Mbps or higher for a stable connection, especially if other family members are also online.
- Competitive gaming: Serious gamers often opt for gigabit speeds to minimize lag and disconnects that can ruin the experience in fast-paced multiplayer games.
- Streaming on many devices: If your household frequently streams 4K content on several TVs/tablets at once, a gigabit plan can ensure smooth playback without buffering.
Fiber-optic internet offers the fastest speeds and most reliable performance, but availability is still limited in Richardson. Spectrum’s cable network is the next best option, supporting speeds up to 940 Mbps. For most residents, 200-300 Mbps plans hit the sweet spot between performance and price.
Streaming FAQs
What’s the cheapest way to stream live TV in Richardson?
Sling TV offers 30+ channels including ESPN and CNN for just $35/month, making it one of the most affordable cable alternatives in Richardson.
Is fiber internet available in Richardson?
AT&T and Frontier provide fiber service to some Richardson neighborhoods, but coverage is still spotty. Use provider websites to check availability at your address.
How much do internet and cable bundles really save?
Bundling internet and TV services can trim $10 to $40 off your total monthly bill compared to purchasing them separately. However, promo bundle pricing usually only lasts 1-2 years before increasing.
Are there any free streaming services?
Peacock, Crackle, Tubi, and Pluto TV all offer free ad-supported shows and movies, though their content is usually older or more limited than paid services.
What’s the best internet speed for 4K streaming?
4K HDR content consumes about 25 Mbps, so you’ll want an internet plan of at least 100 Mbps to stream in 4K on one or two TVs. Plans with 200+ Mbps provide more breathing room for additional devices and activities.
Budgeting Smarter in Richardson
In 2025, most Richardson residents can expect to pay between $60 and $150 per month for their combined internet and streaming costs. Assuming a $65 internet plan and two $15 streaming services, a typical household would pay around $95/month, or $1,140 annually.
Of course, your actual costs may vary depending on your internet speed tier, number of streaming subscriptions, and any promotional discounts. But by understanding the different service options and strategically bundling them, you can build an entertainment package that fits your needs and budget.
For more tips on reducing your household expenses, check out our guide on how much utilities cost in Richardson and how to lower your monthly bills.