Internet providers in Des Moines, IA
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Most affordable gigabit fiber
Prices from
$55.00
per month
Speeds up to
940
Mbps
Most accessible high-speed internet
Best 5G internet
Prices from
$60.00
per month
Speeds up to
245
Mbps
Why trust our broadband experts
Allconnect’s team of broadband experts regularly reviews the top internet service providers in the U.S., scrutinizing each company under a rigorous scoring system to help our readers make informed internet purchases. We keep our data points accurate and up to date based on thorough research and partnership communications. Our content is not directed by partners. Visit our full methodology page and advertising disclosure to learn more.
Des Moines, Iowa’s state capital, is the largest city in the state and home to more than 200,000 Iowans. Known for its friendly Midwestern appeal and abundance of local parks, the “Hartford of the West” is also one of the largest players in the insurance industry.
With a strong population base and a growing economy, Des Moines residents need a good selection of reliable home internet plans. Fortunately, they have plenty of options, with prices ranging from $29.95/mo. to $249.99/mo.
Enter your address on this page or continue reading to explore options from internet service providers in Des Moines.
Best internet providers in Des Moines, IA
- Mediacom Xtream: Most accessible high-speed internet
- Metronet: Fastest fiber internet
- CenturyLink: Most affordable gigabit fiber
- Viasat: Best satellite internet
- T-Mobile Home Internet: Best 5G internet
Des Moines internet comparison
Des Moines has a diverse selection of internet providers, with a wide range of prices and connection speeds available. Locals can choose from cable, fiber, fixed wireless and more, with speeds as fast as 5 GB in some areas.
The following table breaks down our top five picks for internet providers in Des Moines.
| Provider | Starting price range* | Download speed range | Connection type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mediacom Xtream | $29.99–$69.99/mo. | 250–1,000 Mbps | Cable |
| Metronet | $29.95–$109.95/mo. | 100–5,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| CenturyLink | $55–$75/mo. | 30–940 Mbps | DSL, fixed wireless, fiber |
| Viasat | $49.99–$249.99/mo. | 25–150 Mbps | Satellite |
| T-Mobile Home Internet | $60/mo. | 72–245 Mbps | Fixed wireless |
Methodology
We rated the largest internet providers in the U.S. for 2024. Each provider was rated on a scale of 1 to 5 based on over a dozen factors, including speed, cost, availability, fees, customer satisfaction, connection type and more. We also used data from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to compare the average speed offered by internet companies in the U.S. to set a baseline for what is considered a good internet speed. Additionally, we analyzed data from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) to understand how each internet service provider (ISP) fares in customer service and perceived value.
How to choose a provider in Des Moines, IA
Before you sign up for a home Wi-Fi provider, there are several details to consider. To find the right fit for your browsing and streaming needs, we recommend evaluating the following:
- Your Internet habits: Before you can decide on a plan, figure out your typical internet habits. How many devices do you have connected? How much streaming and online gaming do you do? More devices and more streaming or gaming will usually mean you need faster internet with higher bandwidth. Check out our guide to internet speed to learn more.
- The hidden costs: The advertised price for an internet plan is rarely what you’ll actually pay. Des Moines internet providers often charge extra for equipment or installation, and you’ll typically pay taxes on your service. Be sure to factor in all these costs when comparing plans.
- Extras that help you save: Despite the extra costs, there are ways to save or add value to your home internet plan. Internet providers in Des Moines may offer bundling discounts or special deals like free streaming services or sign-on bonuses.
Des Moines internet provider reviews
Mediacom Xtream – Most accessible high-speed internet
While there are faster internet service providers in Des Moines, none offer gigabit connectivity as widely as Mediacom. With 1 GB download speeds for only $69.99/mo., it’s also one of the most affordable. Beware that Mediacom plans require contracts and include data caps, and prices usually go up after your first year.
Overall score: 3 out of 5.
Read our full Mediacom Xtream review.
Metronet – Fastest fiber internet
If you want maximum speed with fiber, Metronet is your best bet in Des Moines. This provider offers symmetrical upload and download speeds of up to 5 GB in some parts of the city. There are no data caps, contracts or early termination fees, but prices do jump significantly after the first year. Metronet also has relatively limited availability.
Overall score: 3.8 out of 5
Read our full Metronet review.
CenturyLink – Most affordable gigabit fiber
CenturyLink offers a range of service options in Des Moines, including DSL, fixed wireless and fiber. The first two options aren’t particularly impressive, but its gigabit fiber plan is an excellent deal at $75/mo. Keep in mind that there may be additional equipment fees, and CenturyLink’s fiber service has limited availability.
Overall score: 3.5 out of 5.
Read our full CenturyLink review.
Viasat – Best satellite internet
Viasat offers some of the most extensive coverage in the U.S. You can get up to 150 Mbps download speeds even in remote areas outside Des Moines. Introductory pricing is reasonable, but it jumps up after only three months. You’ll need to install a satellite dish on your property.
Overall score: 2.1 out of 5.
Read our full Viasat review.
T-Mobile Home Internet – Best 5G internet
T-Mobile continues to expand its 5G network, offering service in more homes across the U.S. With download speeds of up to 245 Mbps, T-Mobile competes with some cable providers. It also stands out for straightforward, low pricing and big discounts for cellular customers. You’ll pay an initial setup fee of $35, but there are no added equipment fees or taxes.
Overall score: 4.1 out of 5.
Read our full T-Mobile review.
Cheap internet in Des Moines, IA
Overall, Des Moines has an excellent cost of living, making it an attractive place to settle down for the long haul. This trend holds true for home Wi-Fi plans, too, with Des Moines internet providers offering some of the most affordable options in the U.S. Plans start as low as $30/mo. with Metronet.
| Plan | Price* | Download speed | Connection type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metronet | $29.95/mo. | 100 Mbps | Fiber |
| T-Mobile Home Internet | $40/mo.** | 72–245 Mbps | Fixed wireless |
| Viasat | $49.99/mo. | 25 Mbps | Satellite |
**When bundled with a qualifying mobile plan.
Fastest internet in Des Moines, IA
That’s not to say you can’t pay more for top home Wi-Fi speeds. Internet service providers in Des Moines offer several options for gigabit internet, with speeds of up to 5 GB in some neighborhoods. Check with the following providers to find out how fast your home internet connection can get.
| Plan | Price* | Download speed | Connection type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metronet | $109.95/mo. | Up to 5,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| Xtream | $69.99/mo. | Up to 1,000 Mbps | Cable |
| CenturyLink | $75/mo. | Up to 940 Mbps | Fiber |
Des Moines internet technology
When it comes to speed and reliability, your internet connection is an important consideration. You may find any of the following options from Des Moines internet providers:
- Fiber internet: Fiber-optic cables are the go-to option for users who need maximum speed, low lag and reliable connectivity. Its symmetrical upload/download speeds are ideal for online gaming or frequent Zoom meetings. The downside is that it’s not widely available in many areas.
- Cable: Cable internet is a fairly reliable second choice to fiber, with download speeds of up to 1 GB and widely available service in most urban and suburban areas. Cable’s biggest weaknesses are its slow upload times and its tendency to get bogged down with multiple connected devices.
- Fixed wireless: Fixed wireless connections were once only for cellular data plans, but that’s changed in recent years. With 5G technology, providers like T-Mobile can now bring cable-like connection speeds to homes in markets like Des Moines. However, these connections tend to lag when network demand gets high.
- DSL: Phone-line connections have been an option for home internet for decades, but this technology is slowly phasing out. Still, some providers offer DSL where they haven’t yet upgraded to fiber lines. This may be the only wired option in some locations, but connection speeds max out much slower than cable and fiber.
- Satellite: In terms of availability, nothing is better than satellite internet. However, download speeds are much slower, and you’ll pay quite a bit to get a satellite dish included in your plan.
Des Moines internet FAQs
How much does internet cost in Des Moines?
Des Moines internet providers offer some of the most affordable options for home Wi-Fi in the country. Plans range from $29.95/mo. to $249.99/mo.
Is Xfinity in Des Moines?
Xfinity does not offer internet service anywhere in Iowa. For reliable cable internet in Des Moines, check out plans from Mediacom.
Is Google Fiber in Des Moines?
Google is currently building its fiber network in Des Moines. Keep an eye on Google Fiber’s website for updates to find out when it will be available in your neighborhood.
This content is produced through an alliance between USA TODAY and Allconnect.com. Under the alliance, Allconnect publishes articles about broadband-related topics upholding strict editorial integrity standards in line with USA TODAY’s Principles of Ethical Conduct. The opinions, analyses, reviews and recommendations expressed are those of the Allconnect editorial staff alone. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Read more about our Allconnect Advertising Disclosure.
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