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Providers & Plans

Introductory Pricing (Promo Rate)

A discounted monthly rate offered to new subscribers for the first 12-24 months, after which the price increases to the regular rate — often $20-40/month higher.

What It Means

Introductory pricing is the industry's primary customer acquisition tool. A plan advertised at $49.99/month may cost $79.99 after 12 months. The FCC's broadband nutrition labels now require ISPs to show the full post-promotional price. Many customers switch ISPs when their promo expires, a practice called "churning." Some ISPs will offer retention discounts if you call to cancel. Always ask about the regular rate before signing up and calculate the true average monthly cost over 24 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Introductory Pricing" mean?

A discounted monthly rate offered to new subscribers for the first 12-24 months, after which the price increases to the regular rate — often $20-40/month higher.

Why does Introductory Pricing matter for internet quality?

Introductory pricing is the industry's primary customer acquisition tool. A plan advertised at $49.99/month may cost $79.99 after 12 months. The FCC's broadband nutrition labels now require ISPs to show the full post-promotional price. Many customers switch ISPs when their promo expires, a practice ...

Related Terms

Bundled Plan
An ISP package that combines internet with TV, phone, or mobile service at a discounted rate. Bundles often have introductory pricing that increases significantly after 12-24 months.
Throttling
The intentional slowing of internet service by an ISP, either for specific activities (like streaming or torrenting) or after exceeding a data threshold on an "unlimited" plan.
Symmetrical Speed
An internet plan where download and upload speeds are equal, most commonly available on fiber connections. Cable and DSL plans are almost always asymmetrical with much slower uploads.
Contract vs. No-Contract Plans
Internet plans that either require a 1-2 year commitment (with early termination fees) or allow month-to-month service. The trend has shifted toward no-contract plans.

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About This Data

Definitions based on FCC standards, industry specifications, and federal broadband policy. Speed benchmarks reflect 2024 FCC standards. See our methodology.