According to new data from the FCC, in the year since June 2023, the United States saw notable growth in broadband access across the country, particularly in rural areas. Connecting every corner of the country requires a mix of solutions, technologies, and know-how, with cable broadband playing a significant role.
The development comes before federal BEAD funds have been distributed, an example of cable ISPs' continued commitment to the goal of connecting every American regardless of zip code.
By the numbers
As broadband providers have worked to extend their networks, new FCC data demonstrates the size of that growth.
- In total, the number of locations served by 100/20 Mbps or higher increased by 2.6 million between June 2023 and June 2024, with the number of locations served by cable broadband increasing by 1.1 million.
- For rural areas, a total of 2.1 million locations were added, with cable broadband increasing by 700,000.
- Nearly all of cable’s rural additions are served by gigabit speeds, as the industry brings next-generation connectivity to remote communities.
Physical labor leads to digital growth
The progress is thanks to the hard work by dedicated crews, technicians, engineers, and countless others building physical broadband infrastructure.
- Conditions are often rough in rural areas, especially, with extreme temperatures, challenging geographies and terrain, and countless other obstacles.
- To learn more about the work of extending broadband networks in these conditions, check out NCTA’s docufilm “Every Last Mile,” which premiered earlier this year.
Cable broadband providers continue to demonstrate the skill, agility, and boots on the ground to achieve the once-in-a-generation opportunity to connect every corner of the country to robust internet service.