Best Internet Providers in Tempe, Arizona for 2026
Compare the Best Internet Service Providers in Tempe, AZ
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | 317.61 | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | 57.11 | Mbps |
| Latency | 20 | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | 204.99 | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | 172.20 | Mbps |
| Latency | 11 | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | 154.61 | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | 22.38 | Mbps |
| Latency | 34 | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Tempe, Arizona, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Not all plans are available in all areas. Provider plan, availability, and speed tier data provided by BroadbandNow.com. Speedtest real-world data is only present where sample size has reached significance within a region. Additionally, averages may include aggregated tests across multiple Internet Types (Fiber, DSL, Cable, etc.).
Tempe doesn't quite fit the mold: It's one of the most densely populated cities in the Phoenix metro area, with a streetcar system and Arizona State University anchoring its northern edge. Tempe Town Lake pulls people downtown, while South Tempe stretches out into neighborhoods with a quieter suburban pace. That mix makes Tempe feel like both a city and a suburb—and its internet options reflect that diversity.
Who delivers the fastest connection? Based on Speedtest data collected in the second half of 2025, Cox leads in Tempe, Arizona, with median download speeds of 317.61 Mbps, followed by CenturyLink at 204.99 Mbps. Across the city, typical fixed connections average 244.35 Mbps down, enough for remote work, streaming, and everyday multitasking across multiple devices.
Your internet needs depend on how you actually use your connection. For most households of three to four people watching a moderate amount of streaming video and performing simpler work-from-home tasks such as emailing, Slack, Zoom, etc., a 300 to 500 Mbps plan is more than enough. But for creators, tech professionals, or large households, gigabit speeds and strong upload performance make a noticeable difference.
How to Pick the Right Internet Provider in Tempe
Here are some practical tips:
Check Your Address
Many ISPs tout citywide coverage, but the reality is more complicated (like if your building isn't wired for fiber). Use provider lookup tools or Speedtest's zip code breakdowns to verify.
Consider More Than Speed
Reliability, customer support, and data caps matter just as much. Many fiber plans, for example, include unlimited data and no equipment rental fees. Watch out for plans that include data caps and extra charges.
Think About Uploads
If you send large files, stream on Twitch, or make frequent video calls, symmetrical upload/download speeds (only offered by fiber) are a game-changer.
Match a Plan to Your Needs
Don't pay for 1 gigabit if you're just browsing or streaming a few hours a night. On the flip side, don't skimp if you're running a business from home.
Read the Fine Print
Promo rates often expire after 12 months. Check for hidden fees, contracts, or equipment rentals that inflate the total cost.
How Much Speed Do I Need?
Download speeds of at least 100 Mbps and upload speeds of at least 10 Mbps are widely considered fast enough to handle nearly any online activity. A quick guide to what speeds you need for different online activities is below, and you can read our full guide to internet speeds and performance for more information. Keep in mind that the numbers below are the bare minimum for one device at a time. If you’re trying to use multiple devices on a network at the same time, you’ll want higher speeds.
0–5 Mbps (Slow)
- Stream SD video
- Connect on Slack
- Use Microsoft Teams
- Write and read email
- Scroll social media
- General web browsing
5–20 Mbps (Better)
- Stream HD video at 1080p
20–40 Mbps (Solid)
- Stream 4K video
- Play games online
40–100 Mbps (Good)
- Stream HD games
100+ Mbps (Fast)
- Engage in multi-player gaming
- Download huge files
1+ Gbps (Very fast)
- Do anything you want on multiple devices
ISP Speeds in Tempe, AZ
According to Speedtest Intelligence®, as of January 2026, Tempe reports the following city-wide median speeds:
| Metric | Result |
|---|---|
| Median download speed | 244.35 Mbps |
| Median upload speed | 41.78 Mbps |
| Median latency | 12 ms |
| Top-performing ISP | Cox (317.61 Mbps median download) |
| Most widely available ISP | Viasat (100% availability) |
ISP Speeds in Tempe, Arizona
Based on Speedtest data collected in the second half of 2025, here's how the major providers compare:
- Cox: Tempe's fastest provider with 75% coverage. Downloads of 317.61 Mbps, uploads of 57.11 Mbps, and latency around 20 ms. Its cable infrastructure is widely available across much of the city, with some areas even having access to fiber, making it the go-to option for households seeking balanced speed and reliability.
- CenturyLink: Covers 87% of the city with DSL and fiber. Downloads of 204.99 Mbps, uploads of 172.20 Mbps, and latency around 11 ms. Its fiber service offers excellent upload performance, ideal for households that need fast uploads for video conferencing, cloud storage, and creative work. DSL service is also available in areas where fiber hasn't yet reached.
- Starlink: Covers 100% of Tempe with satellite service. Downloads of 154.61 Mbps, uploads of 22.38 Mbps, and latency around 34 ms. While it offers citywide coverage, the higher latency makes it less ideal for gaming and video conferencing, but it's a solid option for areas without reliable wired connections.
- T-Mobile 5G Home Internet: Covers 69% of Tempe. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market, but it delivers quick setup and contract-free plans, ideal for renters or those who move frequently.
- Mint Mobile: Covers 6% of the city. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market, suggesting limited sample size in the area.
- AT&T Internet Air: Covers 79% of Tempe. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market. It provides a competitive fixed wireless option, with coverage reaching nearly eight out of 10 households.
- Verizon 5G Home Internet: Covers 69% of the city. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market, but it adds another wireless option for Tempe households, with competitive download speeds and straightforward pricing.
- Viasat: Available in 100% of neighborhoods as a satellite option. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market. Where wired options aren't available, Viasat provides a backup internet solution.
- HughesNet: Covers 100% of Tempe with satellite service. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market, but it serves as another satellite option for areas without wired access.
- Phoenix Internet: Covers 98% of the city with fixed wireless. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market. It offers symmetrical speeds and can be a stable option for households outside of wired footprints.
- AirFiber WISP: Available in 82% of Tempe. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market. With advertised speeds capping at gigabit, it can cover a range of needs from streaming to gaming.
Tempe Fixed Speeds
Download Mbps
Median download speed
Upload Mbps
Median upload speed
Latency ms
Median latency
To be added to this list for mobile or fixed broadband, 75% of a city's monthly unique user totals over a 13-month period must have a minimum of 200 monthly unique user results. To be updated for mobile or fixed broadband, 75% of a city's monthly unique user totals over a 13-month period must have a minimum of 100 monthly unique user results.
An operator or ISP must account for 3% or more of total test samples in the market to be on this list. We display data if at least two operators or ISPs meet this threshold in a designated region or city.
Internet Providers in Nearby Cities
Oklahoma
Home Internet in Tempe
At the time of this writing, the average starting price for internet in Tempe is $51.71 per month, based on entry-level plans from major providers including Cox ($50), CenturyLink ($50), T-Mobile 5G Home Internet ($50), Verizon 5G Home Internet ($50), and Phoenix Internet ($65). While cable and fiber plans bring fast download and upload speeds to much of the city, wireless options from T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T add flexibility for renters and households without wired access.
Top Internet Providers in Tempe, Arizona
Cox
- Type: Cable, Fiber
- Max speeds: Up to 2,000 Mbps download / 2,000 Mbps upload
- Best for: Balanced households wanting speed and reliability
- Availability: ~75%
- Price range: $55–$169/month
Cox is Tempe's speed leader. Based on Speedtest data collected in the second half of 2025, Cox delivers median download speeds of 317.61 Mbps and upload speeds of 57.11 Mbps, with 20 ms latency. With a mix of cable and limited fiber service, Cox delivers strong performance and broad coverage across much of the city. Its wide range of plans makes it a practical choice for families, gamers, and remote workers alike.
CenturyLink
- Type: DSL, Fiber
- Max speeds: Up to 940 Mbps download / 940 Mbps upload
- Best for: Smaller households or those prioritizing uploads
- Availability: ~87%
- Price range: $50–$75/month
CenturyLink covers most of Tempe, with DSL in many areas and fiber in select neighborhoods. Based on Speedtest data collected in the second half of 2025, CenturyLink delivers real-world median speeds of 204.99 Mbps down and 172.20 Mbps up, with 11 ms latency. Fiber-connected households can see far faster results, making it a good option if you're in range of its upgraded network.
T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
- Type: 5G Internet
- Max speeds: Up to 415 Mbps download / 56 Mbps upload
- Best for: Students and renters who want simple setup
- Availability: ~69%
- Price range: $50–$70/month
T-Mobile Home Internet covers much of Tempe, especially in areas where fiber isn't yet available. It delivers quick setup and contract-free plans, ideal for renters or those who move frequently. While performance varies by neighborhood and network congestion, it's a flexible way to get decent speeds without cable or DSL.
Verizon 5G Home Internet
- Type: 5G Internet
- Max speeds: Up to 300 Mbps download / 20 Mbps upload
- Best for: Households seeking a wireless alternative to cable
- Availability: ~69%
- Price range: $35–$75/month
Verizon's 5G Home Internet adds another wireless option for Tempe households, with competitive download speeds and straightforward pricing. It's not as consistent as fiber, but it fills gaps where wired providers aren't reliable.
Phoenix Internet
- Type: Fixed Wireless
- Max speeds: Up to 100 Mbps download / 100 Mbps upload
- Best for: Families in neighborhoods without reliable cable/fiber
- Availability: ~98%
- Price range: $64.99–$124.99/month
Phoenix Internet covers a large portion of the city with fixed wireless, offering symmetrical speeds up to 100 Mbps. While slower than fiber or cable, it can be a stable option for households outside of wired footprints.
AirFiber WISP
- Type: Fixed Wireless
- Max speeds: Up to 100 Mbps download / 500 Mbps upload
- Best for: Households citywide looking for a range of options
- Availability: ~82%
- Price range: $49.95–$109.95/month
AirFiber WISP reaches much of Tempe with fixed wireless service. With advertised speeds capping at gigabit in certain areas, it can cover a range of needs from streaming and video calls to gaming. Higher speed plans are only available in select locations.
Starlink
- Type: Satellite
- Max speeds: Up to 350 Mbps download / 35 Mbps upload
- Best for: Rural areas and homes without wired access
- Availability: ~100%
- Price range: $80–$165/month
Starlink provides citywide satellite coverage. Based on Speedtest data collected in the second half of 2025, Starlink delivers real-world median speeds of 154.61 Mbps down and 22.38 Mbps up, with 34 ms latency. While latency makes it less ideal for gaming and video calls, it's the fastest satellite option and a solid backup for areas without reliable wired connections.
AT&T Internet Air
- Type: 5G Internet
- Max speeds: Up to 300 Mbps download / 30 Mbps upload
- Best for: Renters and households without wired access
- Availability: ~79%
- Price range: from $65/month
AT&T Internet Air provides a competitive fixed wireless option in Tempe, with coverage reaching nearly eight out of 10 households. Speeds can vary depending on your location and signal strength, but for many residents, it's an affordable and flexible alternative to wired service.
FAQs
Who has the fastest internet in Tempe?
Cox currently leads with median download speeds of 317.61 Mbps, based on Speedtest user data collected in the second half of 2025.
Who offers the cheapest plans?
At the time of this writing, multiple providers start at $50 per month, including Cox, CenturyLink, T-Mobile 5G Home Internet, and Verizon 5G Home Internet. AirFiber WISP offers a slightly lower entry point at $49.95.
Is fiber internet available in Tempe?
Yes. Cox offers some fiber service alongside cable, and CenturyLink provides fiber in parts of the city. Availability depends on your specific neighborhood and building's wiring.
Are there satellite options in Tempe?
Starlink, HughesNet, and Viasat all provide citywide satellite service. Starlink is the fastest, with real-world median speeds of 154.61 Mbps down and 22.38 Mbps up, though latency makes it less ideal for gaming and video calls.
Where can I connect to the internet for free in Tempe?
According to the city's website, “Free public WiFi is available at Tempe Public Library, Tempe Beach Park and various other City of Tempe buildings.”
Speedtest TL;DR
Tempe's internet market mirrors its diverse identity, with wired, wireless, and satellite all playing a role. Cox takes the top spot in real-world speeds, while CenturyLink offers wide availability and strong uploads where fiber is available. AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon add competitive 5G options, Phoenix Internet and AirFiber provide fixed wireless coverage across much of the city, and Starlink leads the satellite offerings. With no single provider dominating the map, the best choice for Tempe households often depends on their exact address.
How we test the speed of ISPs
Speedtest is the definitive way to test the performance and quality of an internet connection. Millions of users like you use Speedtest.net and our Android and iOS apps every day to test internet performance (including bandwidth, latency, coverage, video metrics, and more) in real world situations. We then use rigorous scientific approaches to aggregate and anonymize those results to empower people like you with content like this so you can understand and optimize your internet experience.
The data found within has not been subjected to the rigorous Speedtest marketing claims and data methodology, and therefore cannot be used in commercial applications. Additionally, promised speeds and plans offered are always subject to change.
How to test your internet speed
Speedtest can help you test the speed and overall performance of your internet for free from any device. Click here to open a new page and take a Speedtest. You can then compare your results with what you’ve learned about internet performance near you. If you aren’t getting the results you expect, you can either use this guide to use your Speedtest results to talk to your internet provider or you can shop for a new provider.