If you live in Redding, CA like I do, you probably understand the struggle of finding a reliable internet provider that meets your needs. Whether you work from home, stream movies, or have a full house of people trying to connect all at once, the right internet provider makes all the difference. With Redding’s picturesque landscapes and a growing community, having dependable internet isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Here, I’ll share my experience and research to help you navigate the world of internet providers in Redding, CA. I’ll also mention some key businesses that provide internet services here, so you can make a better choice for you and your family.
Table of Contents
Understanding Internet Availability in Redding, CA
Redding is a beautiful city in Northern California, surrounded by nature, with an estimated population of about 93,000 people. Although the city isn’t as densely populated as major urban centers, the internet options are still varied. Around 87% of households in Redding have access to broadband internet, according to BroadbandNow.
However, choosing between fiber, cable, DSL, and satellite can be confusing. This guide will break down each of the major internet providers in Redding, CA, and explain what makes them unique. I’ll also discuss the typical costs, speeds, and factors that might sway your decision.
1. Top Internet Providers in Redding, CA
1. AT&T Internet
- Type: DSL and Fiber
- Speeds: Up to 5 Gbps
- Why Choose It? If speed is your priority, AT&T offers fiber plans that can reach up to 5 Gbps (though availability is limited). For most households in Redding, AT&T’s DSL service is more accessible, offering speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
I opted for AT&T’s fiber, and I found it to be a lifesaver for video calls and streaming. They have decent customer service, but make sure to check availability in your area as their fiber network is expanding slowly.
2. Spectrum
- Type: Cable
- Speeds: Up to 1 Gbps
- Why Choose It? Spectrum is known for its high-speed cable internet, with no data caps. This is ideal for households with gamers or streamers who want unlimited data without having to worry about throttling.
Spectrum provides coverage throughout much of Redding and offers speeds that are good enough for 4K streaming and gaming. Their contract-free service is also a nice plus, making it easy to switch if your needs change.
3. Xfinity
- Type: Cable
- Speeds: Up to 1.2 Gbps
- Why Choose It? Xfinity is one of the fastest internet providers in Redding, with speeds reaching up to 1.2 Gbps. If you’re like me and want the fastest speeds available for heavy-duty online activities, this is a great choice.
Xfinity offers different pricing tiers, which is helpful for families that might not need gigabit speeds. They also have bundling options for TV and phone services, which can be more affordable if you’re looking for a package deal.
4. Frontier Communications
- Type: DSL and Fiber
- Speeds: Up to 2 Gbps
- Why Choose It? Frontier offers affordable DSL and fiber services, though fiber is only available in select areas of Redding. Their pricing is straightforward, with no hidden fees, which I personally appreciate.
For those living in areas where fiber is available, Frontier’s symmetrical speeds (equal download and upload speeds) are great for content creators and remote workers who need to upload large files.
5. Viasat
- Type: Satellite
- Speeds: Up to 100 Mbps
- Why Choose It? For those living in more rural parts of Redding, Viasat might be the only viable option. Satellite internet isn’t as fast or reliable as fiber or cable, but Viasat’s speeds are decent for basic web browsing and streaming in standard definition.
I used Viasat when I first moved to Redding because there weren’t any wired options available at my location. It worked well for basic browsing and emails, but I did notice some lag during bad weather.
6. HughesNet
- Type: Satellite
- Speeds: Up to 25 Mbps
- Why Choose It? Like Viasat, HughesNet provides internet service to rural areas where other options might not be available. Although the speeds are lower (up to 25 Mbps), HughesNet has data-saving features that make it manageable for light internet use.
7. T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
- Type: Fixed Wireless (5G)
- Speeds: Up to 115 Mbps
- Why Choose It? T-Mobile has entered the home internet market with their 5G Home Internet. If you want a wireless solution with easy installation, T-Mobile might be a good option for you.
The setup is easy—I simply plugged in the router, and it worked right away. The speeds are great for a small household, and it’s ideal if you don’t want to deal with complicated installation processes.
How to Choose the Best Internet Provider for Your Needs
1. Determine Your Internet Usage
The first thing you should ask yourself is, “What do I need my internet for?” If you’re just browsing the web and checking emails, a lower-speed plan (25-100 Mbps) might work fine. However, for streaming in 4K, gaming, or running a home office, you’ll want at least 200 Mbps or higher.
2. Availability in Your Area
Not every provider is available in all areas of Redding. For instance, fiber services like AT&T and Frontier might not be available in some neighborhoods. I highly recommend using a coverage map like the FCC Broadband Map to see which providers service your specific address.
3. Cost and Contract Flexibility
Some providers like Spectrum offer no-contract plans, which give you flexibility in case you need to move or switch providers. Be sure to read the fine print—some providers advertise low introductory prices that increase significantly after the first year.
4. Customer Support
Having good customer support is crucial. From my experience, I found AT&T and Spectrum’s customer support helpful. It’s always a good idea to check out reviews on sites like Yelp or Trustpilot to see how current customers rate their service.
Internet Speed Comparison Chart for Redding, CA
| Provider | Type | Max Speed | Price (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Fiber | Fiber | 5 Gbps | $55 – $180 |
| Spectrum | Cable | 1 Gbps | $49.99 – $89.99 |
| Xfinity | Cable | 1.2 Gbps | $39.99 – $119.99 |
| Frontier | Fiber/DSL | 2 Gbps | $49.99 – $150 |
| Viasat | Satellite | 100 Mbps | $59.99 – $150 |
| HughesNet | Satellite | 25 Mbps | $64.99 – $149.99 |
| T-Mobile 5G | Fixed Wireless | 115 Mbps | $50 |
Tips for Getting the Best Internet Deal
- Bundle Services: Many providers, like Xfinity and Spectrum, offer discounts if you bundle your internet with TV or phone services.
- Negotiate Pricing: It never hurts to call and ask for a better deal. I managed to get a lower rate with AT&T by negotiating after my first year’s promotional period ended.
- Look for Promotions: Some providers offer gift cards, free installation, or even discounted pricing for the first 12 months. Be sure to ask about current promotions when you sign up.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Ideal Internet Provider in Redding, CA
Choosing an internet provider in Redding, CA can feel like a daunting task with so many options. Ultimately, it comes down to availability, your usage needs, and your budget. For high-speed internet, Xfinity and Spectrum are great choices with their gigabit speeds. If you’re in a rural area, Viasat or HughesNet might be your best bet.
As someone who’s been through this process, I recommend making a list of what matters most to you—whether it’s speed, customer support, or cost. Don’t be afraid to reach out to providers directly and ask questions. After all, the right internet connection can make all the difference, whether you’re working from home, watching your favorite shows, or staying connected with friends and family.
Useful Links to Explore
- BroadbandNow – Compare Providers in Redding
- FCC Broadband Map – Check availability at your specific address
- Xfinity Deals – View the latest promotional offers