Seventy-eight percent of Americans feel that the Internet is as important as other basic household utilities and 85% rely on it seven days per week, according to an internet attitude study conducted in October by Consumer Reports.
The survey, which was conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago, looks at Americans’ access to the Internet, cost and affordability. It is based on 2,087 responses.
Some key findings:
Access: Seventy-four percent of households access broadband through a fixed cable or connection,18 percent only have access through their smartphone data plan and 5% through DSL or dial-up.
Cost: Eighty-four percent pay at least $50 per month for access to the internet and 27% who have a broadband service at their home say it’s somewhat or very difficult to afford their monthly costs.
Affordability: Fifty-nine percent have heard of the Affordable Connectivity Program, know someone who uses it, have applied, are currently enrolled or have enrolled in the past. Forty-one percent have never heard of the program.
“These survey results show that more people than ever depend on access to fast, reliable internet connections for work, education, and health care,” Jonathan Schwantes, Consumer Reports’ senior policy counsel, said in a prepared statement.
“The survey also shows that there are still too many people who struggle to afford monthly internet costs. Lack of access to affordable, high-speed broadband is increasing the digital divide, and having a detrimental impact on low-income and rural communities. We need collective action to ensure that every American has access to quality, affordable broadband.”””