AARP Urges Retirees to Reassess Internet Plans, Saying 100 Mbps Often Suffices
Updated
Updated · AARP · Jul 22
AARP Urges Retirees to Reassess Internet Plans, Saying 100 Mbps Often Suffices
3 articles · Updated · AARP · Jul 22
Summary
AARP said many retirees are overpaying by keeping work-era internet plans and should match service to current needs instead of defaulting to higher-speed tiers.
The group said a basic 100/20 Mbps broadband plan is enough for many two-person households, while speeds above 500 Mbps are often unnecessary; online bandwidth calculators can help account for devices and usage.
5G home internet has emerged as a cheaper alternative, with plans often around $50 a month or as low as $35 when bundled, helping lift its market share from 1% in early 2022 to 13% in early 2026.
For rural households, AARP pointed to satellite providers such as Starlink, Hughesnet and Viasat, and it urged retirees to compare local options by asking neighbors about service quality and pricing.
AARP also advised watching for bill increases, negotiating to keep prior rates, and checking aid programs such as Lifeline, which offers eligible households up to $9.25 a month off broadband.