Starlink Cheaper Plan: US State Expansion

Yes, Starlink’s cheaper internet plan, the “Standard” residential service at $120 per month, has expanded to more US states, though availability remains limited by network capacity and varies by location. As of early 2025, the $120 plan is available in many states, but not everywhere, and the $90 “Limited” plan is also rolling out in select areas. This article explains the current state of Starlink’s lower-cost plans, how to check availability, and what to consider before switching.

Background: Starlink’s Pricing Evolution

Starlink, operated by SpaceX, initially offered a single residential plan at $99 per month (later raised to $110, then $120). In 2023, the company introduced a $120 “Standard” plan and a $90 “Limited” plan, the latter offering slower speeds during peak hours. The $120 plan is essentially the standard residential service, while the $90 plan is a data-deprioritized option. The expansion to more US states has been gradual, driven by the increasing number of Starlink satellites and ground stations, but also constrained by local network congestion and regulatory approvals.

How the Plans Differ

The key difference between the plans is priority. The $120 Standard plan provides typical download speeds of 25–100 Mbps (with some areas seeing higher), while the $90 Limited plan offers the same speeds but with lower priority during peak usage, meaning you may experience slower speeds in the evening. Both plans have no hard data caps, but the Limited plan is intended for light users. The equipment cost is the same ($499 for the standard dish), though occasional promotions reduce it.

Which States Are Covered?

Starlink does not publish a definitive state-by-state list because coverage is based on specific cell locations within states. However, as of early 2025, the $120 plan is widely available across the contiguous US, with exceptions in some densely populated urban areas where capacity is saturated. The $90 Limited plan is being offered in states with excess capacity, often in rural areas. To check if you can get the cheaper plan, visit Starlink’s website and enter your address. The site will show which plans are available at your location.

How to Check Availability and Order

To see if the cheaper plan is available at your address:

• Go to starlink.com and enter your service address.
• If the $90 or $120 plan is available, you’ll see it listed with an “Order” button.
• If only the $120 plan shows, the $90 plan is not yet available in your cell.
• If no residential plan is available, you may see a waitlist option.

You can also check the Starlink app (available for iOS and Android) for availability and to place an order. The app also shows expected speeds for your location.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

A common misconception is that the $90 plan is a separate, slower service. In reality, it uses the same satellites and dish; it just deprioritizes your data during congestion. Another issue is that some users report the $90 plan’s speeds drop significantly in the evening, making it unsuitable for streaming or gaming. Also, the $120 plan is not “unlimited” in the sense of guaranteed speeds; it’s subject to network management. If you’re in a congested area, even the $120 plan may slow down.

Comparing Starlink to Other Options

When considering Starlink, compare it to other rural internet options:

• Fixed wireless (e.g., Verizon, T-Mobile) – often cheaper but may have lower speeds and data caps.
• DSL – slower (typically under 25 Mbps) but sometimes more reliable.
• Satellite (HughesNet, Viasat) – similar price but with data caps and higher latency.
• Fiber or cable – if available, usually faster and more reliable, but often not in rural areas.

Starlink’s advantage is its low latency (25–50 ms) and relatively high speeds for remote locations. However, the upfront equipment cost is a barrier.

Costs and Contracts

The total cost includes the $499 equipment fee (or $599 for the high-performance dish) plus monthly service. Shipping and taxes are extra. There is no annual contract; you can cancel anytime, but you must return the equipment if you cancel within the first year, or you’ll be charged the full equipment price. The $90 plan is a good entry point, but you may eventually want to upgrade to the $120 plan if you need more consistent speeds.

Safety and Installation Tips

Installing the Starlink dish is straightforward, but safety matters:

• Place the dish on a stable surface or mount it securely to avoid wind damage.
• Ensure the cable is not a trip hazard and is protected from pets.
• If mounting on a roof, use proper fall protection and follow local building codes.
• Avoid touching the dish during a thunderstorm.

Also, the dish needs a clear view of the sky; use the Starlink app’s obstruction tool to find the best location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the $90 Starlink plan available in my state?

Availability is based on your specific address, not just your state. Enter your address on Starlink’s website to see which plans are offered. If the $90 plan is not shown, it’s not yet available in your area.

Can I switch from the $120 plan to the $90 plan?

Yes, if the $90 plan is available at your location. You can change your plan in your Starlink account settings. The change takes effect at the start of your next billing cycle.

Will the $90 plan be fast enough for video calls?

It can be, but during peak hours (7–11 PM) speeds may drop below 10 Mbps, which can cause video lag. For reliable video calls, the $120 plan is safer.

What is the actual speed difference between the two plans?

Both plans have the same typical speed range (25–100 Mbps), but the $90 plan is deprioritized during congestion, so you might see speeds below 10 Mbps in the evening. The $120 plan maintains higher speeds more consistently.

Do I need to buy new equipment for the cheaper plan?

No, both plans use the same standard dish. If you already have Starlink, you can switch plans without changing hardware. If you’re new, you’ll buy the standard kit.

Is there a data cap on the $90 plan?

No, there is no hard data cap, but the deprioritization effectively limits heavy usage during peak times. Light users (web browsing, email) will likely notice little difference.

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