A Connected Nation with Deep Divides
While internet use is nearly universal in the U.S., access to consistent, high-quality home broadband is not. This interactive report explores the key statistics, demographic disparities, and systemic barriers that define America's digital divide.
of U.S. adults use the internet (2024)
of U.S. adults have home broadband (2023)
of U.S. adults are "smartphone-dependent" for internet access
Visualizing the Divide
The gap in home broadband access is not random; it follows clear demographic lines. Use the filters below to see how adoption rates vary significantly across different segments of the population.
Home Broadband Adoption by Household Income (2023)
Why the Gap Persists: Key Barriers
Closing the digital divide requires understanding its root causes. The problem is a complex mix of affordability, infrastructure availability, and non-financial hurdles like digital skills and perceived relevance.
Affordability
High costs and confusing pricing structures are a primary barrier. The U.S. has some of the most expensive internet globally, with the median household paying ~$85/month.
Availability
While improving, lack of competition is a major issue. Over a third of Americans have only one high-speed provider, or none at all, particularly in rural and Tribal areas.
Adoption
Beyond cost, many don't subscribe due to a lack of digital skills or not seeing the internet's relevance to their lives. This is the #1 reason cited by non-connected households.
The Hidden Costs of Internet Service
Primary Reason for No Home Broadband (Unconnected Households)
The Real-World Impact
The digital divide isn't an abstract problem. It creates tangible disadvantages that deepen social and economic inequalities in critical areas of life.
Education
Students without reliable internet face a "homework gap," struggling to complete assignments and access online learning resources.
Employment
Limited access restricts opportunities for remote work, online job applications, and developing essential digital skills for career growth.
Healthcare
Inability to use telehealth services can delay access to care, especially for rural residents and those with mobility issues.
Policy & Action
Federal and state governments are tackling the digital divide through infrastructure funding and affordability programs, though significant challenges remain.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) - ENDED
This vital program provided a monthly internet discount to nearly 20 million households. It ended on June 1, 2024, due to a lack of new congressional funding, creating a significant affordability crisis for its former recipients.
Lifeline Program - ACTIVE
A long-standing federal program that provides a more modest discount of up to $9.25/month on phone or internet service for eligible low-income households. It remains an active source of support.
BEAD Program - ACTIVE
The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program provides $42 billion to states to fund the build-out of high-speed internet infrastructure in unserved and underserved areas, aiming to close the physical availability gap.