Best Internet Providers in Richmond, Virginia for 2026
Compare the Best Internet Service Providers in Richmond, VA
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Richmond, Virginia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Richmond, Virginia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | 278.32 | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | 162.12 | Mbps |
| Latency | 16 | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Richmond, Virginia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | 262.26 | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | 39.88 | Mbps |
| Latency | 29 | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Richmond, Virginia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Richmond, Virginia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Richmond, Virginia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Richmond, Virginia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Richmond, Virginia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Richmond, Virginia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Not all plans are available in all areas. Provider plan, availability, and speed tier data provided by BroadbandNow.com. Speedtest real-world data is only present where sample size has reached significance within a region. Additionally, averages may include aggregated tests across multiple Internet Types (Fiber, DSL, Cable, etc.).
Richmond, Va., blends colonial history with a modern, creative energy. From the cobblestone streets of Shockoe Slip to the murals of the Arts District, Virginia's capital offers craft breweries, James River recreation, and a thriving food scene. When it's time to get online, Richmond's internet options provide fast, reliable service for remote work, streaming, gaming, and everything in between.
So who delivers the fastest speeds in Richmond? Based on Speedtest data collected in the second half of 2025, Verizon leads the city with median downloads of 278.32 Mbps, followed by XFINITY at 262.26 Mbps. Across Richmond overall, typical fixed connections average 270.36 Mbps down, enough for remote work, streaming, and everyday multitasking across multiple devices.
Choosing the right speed tier comes down to how your household uses the internet. Most families do well with 300 to 500 Mbps for simultaneous streaming, video calls, and browsing. Larger households or those with heavy upload needs—like creators or remote professionals—should consider gigabit fiber plans.
How to Pick the Right Internet Provider in Richmond
Here are some practical tips:
Check Your Address
Many ISPs tout citywide coverage, but availability varies block by block. Use provider lookup tools or Speedtest's zip code breakdowns to verify what's actually available at your address.
Consider More Than Speed
Reliability, customer support, and data caps matter just as much as raw speed. Many fiber plans include unlimited data and no equipment rental fees, while some cable plans have data caps that could affect heavy users.
Think About Uploads
If you regularly send large files, stream on Twitch, or make frequent video calls, symmetrical upload/download speeds (typically only offered by fiber) can make a significant difference in your daily experience.
Match a Plan to Your Needs
Don't pay for gigabit if you're just browsing and streaming a few hours a night. On the flip side, don't go too cheap if you're running a business or have multiple heavy users at home.
Read the Fine Print
Promotional rates often expire after 12 months. Check for hidden fees, contracts, or equipment rentals that could inflate your total cost over time.
How Much Speed Do I Need?
Download speeds of at least 100 Mbps and upload speeds of at least 10 Mbps are widely considered fast enough to handle nearly any online activity. A quick guide to what speeds you need for different online activities is below, and you can read our full guide to internet speeds and performance for more information. Keep in mind that the numbers below are the bare minimum for one device at a time. If you’re trying to use multiple devices on a network at the same time, you’ll want higher speeds.
0–5 Mbps (Slow)
- Stream SD video
- Connect on Slack
- Use Microsoft Teams
- Write and read email
- Scroll social media
- General web browsing
5–20 Mbps (Better)
- Stream HD video at 1080p
20–40 Mbps (Solid)
- Stream 4K video
- Play games online
40–100 Mbps (Good)
- Stream HD games
100+ Mbps (Fast)
- Engage in multi-player gaming
- Download huge files
1+ Gbps (Very fast)
- Do anything you want on multiple devices
ISP Speeds in Richmond, VA
According to Speedtest Intelligence®, as of January 2026, Richmond reports the following city-wide median speeds:
| Metric | Result |
|---|---|
| Median download speed | 270.36 Mbps |
| Median upload speed | 93.34 Mbps |
| Median latency | 9 ms |
| Top-performing ISP | Verizon (278.32 Mbps median download) |
ISP Speeds in Richmond, Va.
Based on Speedtest data collected in the second half of 2025, here's how the major providers compare:
- Verizon: Richmond's fastest provider based on real-world performance. Downloads of 278.32 Mbps, uploads of 162.12 Mbps. Its fiber infrastructure delivers symmetrical speeds ideal for video calls, cloud backups, and content creation.
- XFINITY: A strong performer in the Richmond market. Downloads of 262.26 Mbps, uploads of 39.88 Mbps. Its cable network provides solid download performance for streaming and everyday browsing.
- VA SkyWire: Available in parts of Richmond. Downloads of 115.98 Mbps, uploads of 117.69 Mbps.
- EarthLink Fiber: Available in Richmond. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market.
- T-Mobile 5G Home Internet: Available in Richmond. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market. It offers flexible, contract-free wireless service with quick setup.
- Starlink: Available in Richmond. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market. It provides satellite coverage for areas where wired options may be limited.
- AT&T Internet Air: Available in Richmond. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market. It offers flexible, contract-free wireless service with quick setup.
Richmond Fixed Speeds
Download Mbps
Median download speed
Upload Mbps
Median upload speed
Latency ms
Median latency
To be added to this list for mobile or fixed broadband, 75% of a city's monthly unique user totals over a 13-month period must have a minimum of 200 monthly unique user results. To be updated for mobile or fixed broadband, 75% of a city's monthly unique user totals over a 13-month period must have a minimum of 100 monthly unique user results.
An operator or ISP must account for 3% or more of total test samples in the market to be on this list. We display data if at least two operators or ISPs meet this threshold in a designated region or city.
Internet Providers in Nearby Cities
Virginia
District of Columbia
Maryland
New Jersey
Home Internet in Richmond
At the time of this writing, the average starting price for internet in Richmond is about $60 per month, based on entry-level plans from major providers in the area. Wireless providers typically offer plans around $50 to $70. Most households can expect to pay between $50 to $85 per month for reliable service.
Top Internet Providers in Richmond, Va.
Verizon
- Type: Fiber/5G
- Max speeds: Up to 2000 Mbps download / 5000 Mbps upload
- Best for: General households with moderate to heavy usage
- Price range: $55–$200/month
Based on Speedtest data collected in the second half of 2025, Verizon delivers median download speeds of 278.32 Mbps and upload speeds of 162.12 Mbps in Richmond. Its symmetrical speeds make it well-suited for video conferencing, cloud storage, and content creation.
XFINITY
- Type: Cable
- Max speeds: Up to 2000 Mbps download / 100 Mbps upload
- Best for: General households with moderate to heavy usage
- Price range: $55–$120/month
Based on Speedtest data collected in the second half of 2025, XFINITY delivers median download speeds of 262.26 Mbps and upload speeds of 39.88 Mbps in Richmond. Its cable infrastructure provides solid download performance for streaming and general browsing.
VA SkyWire
- Type: Internet
- Max speeds: Up to 500 Mbps download / 50 Mbps upload
- Best for: Multi-person households with varied needs
- Price range: $50–$80/month
Based on Speedtest data collected in the second half of 2025, VA SkyWire delivers median download speeds of 115.98 Mbps and upload speeds of 117.69 Mbps in Richmond.
EarthLink Fiber
- Type: Internet
- Max speeds: Varies by plan
- Best for: Multi-person households with varied needs
- Price range: $50–$80/month
EarthLink Fiber is available in Richmond. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market, but it offers a flexible option for households seeking alternatives to traditional wired service.
T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
- Type: 5G Internet
- Max speeds: Up to 300 Mbps download / 50 Mbps upload
- Best for: Renters and flexible setups
- Price range: $50–$70/month
T-Mobile 5G Home Internet is available in Richmond. Real-world Speedtest data is not yet available for this market, but it offers a flexible option for households seeking alternatives to traditional wired service.
FAQs
Who provides the fastest internet speeds in Richmond?
Verizon leads with median download speeds of 278.32 Mbps, followed by XFINITY at 262.26 Mbps, based on Speedtest user data collected in the second half of 2025.
Is fiber internet available in Richmond?
Yes. Verizon offers fiber connections in Richmond.
Who has the cheapest internet in Richmond?
Entry-level plans in Richmond typically start around $50 to $60 per month. Check provider websites for current promotional pricing.
Where can I find free Wi-Fi in Richmond?
Free public Wi-Fi is available at Richmond public libraries, many coffee shops, and select parks and community centers throughout the city.
Speedtest TL;DR
Richmond offers solid internet options for most residents. Verizon tops the local speed charts, with XFINITY close behind. With city-wide median speeds of 270.36 Mbps down and 93.34 Mbps up, most Richmond households have access to reliable connectivity for remote work, streaming, and everyday use.
How we test the speed of ISPs
Speedtest is the definitive way to test the performance and quality of an internet connection. Millions of users like you use Speedtest.net and our Android and iOS apps every day to test internet performance (including bandwidth, latency, coverage, video metrics, and more) in real world situations. We then use rigorous scientific approaches to aggregate and anonymize those results to empower people like you with content like this so you can understand and optimize your internet experience.
The data found within has not been subjected to the rigorous Speedtest marketing claims and data methodology, and therefore cannot be used in commercial applications. Additionally, promised speeds and plans offered are always subject to change.
How to test your internet speed
Speedtest can help you test the speed and overall performance of your internet for free from any device. Click here to open a new page and take a Speedtest. You can then compare your results with what you’ve learned about internet performance near you. If you aren’t getting the results you expect, you can either use this guide to use your Speedtest results to talk to your internet provider or you can shop for a new provider.