Starlink's current pricing

Starlink costs $120 per month for standard residential service as of 2024, plus a one-time equipment fee of $600 for the dish, router, and mounting hardware. A smaller portable kit called Starlink Mini costs $50 per month but requires a separate $599 device. There is also a $50 professional installation fee if you want Starlink to mount the dish rather than doing it yourself.

These prices can change, and Starlink has adjusted them multiple times in the past two years. The company does not lock in rates, so your monthly cost may increase after you sign up. Check Starlink's website directly before ordering to confirm current pricing in your area.

Unlike traditional internet providers, Starlink does not require a long-term contract. You can cancel anytime without penalty, though you lose the $600 equipment fee you paid upfront.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard Starlink residential service costs $120 per month plus a $600 upfront equipment fee, with no contract required.
  • The Starlink Mini option costs $50 per month with a $599 device fee, designed for people who move frequently or travel.
  • Professional installation adds $50, but most people can mount the dish themselves following Starlink's instructions.
  • Starlink prices are not locked in and have increased multiple times; check the website before ordering to see current rates.
  • You pay the full equipment cost upfront, so budget for that initial expense separate from your first month's service.

What the $120 per month includes

The standard $120 monthly plan gives you read speeds between 50 and 200 Mbps on average, though speeds vary by location and time of day. Upload speeds typically run 5 to 20 Mbps. These speeds are generally fast enough for video streaming, video calls, and remote work, though they are slower than fiber or cable in most areas.

The service includes unlimited data — there is no monthly cap, and Starlink does not throttle your speed once you hit a certain amount. The dish and router are yours to keep even if you cancel, so you are not returning equipment.

Starlink residential service works best when the dish has a clear view of the sky. Trees, buildings, or heavy cloud cover can interrupt the signal. The equipment requires a power outlet and an ethernet cable or Wi-Fi connection to your devices.

The Starlink Mini and when it makes sense

The Starlink Mini is a smaller, lighter dish designed for people who do not stay in one place. It costs $50 per month and requires a separate $599 device purchase. The Mini has the same speed range as standard Starlink (50 to 200 Mbps) but uses less power and takes up less space.

The Mini is worth considering if you live in an RV, travel frequently, or move between homes. The lower monthly cost helps offset the fact that you are paying for service you may not use every month. If you stay in one location year-round, the standard $120 plan is usually the better value because the monthly savings on the Mini ($70 per month) would take nine months to recover the $600 difference in equipment cost.

How Starlink's cost compares to other providers

Cable and fiber providers in most areas charge $50 to $100 per month for similar speeds, with no equipment fee or a much smaller one. However, cable and fiber are not available everywhere — Starlink's main advantage is that it works in rural areas where other options do not reach.

Fixed wireless and 5G home internet services from companies like T-Mobile and Verizon often cost $50 to $80 per month with no equipment fee, making them cheaper upfront if they are available at your address. Their speeds are comparable to Starlink, but coverage is limited to areas near cell towers.

Satellite internet from Viasat or HughesNet typically costs $50 to $150 per month but includes data caps — you pay overage fees or experience slower speeds once you exceed your monthly limit. Starlink's unlimited data is a significant difference if you stream video or work from home regularly.

Hidden costs and what to budget for

The $600 equipment fee is the largest surprise for people new to Starlink. This is not a monthly charge — you pay it once when you order. If you choose professional installation, add another $50. Some people also buy a roof mount or wall bracket ($20 to $50) if they want to install the dish in a specific location.

Starlink requires a power outlet within reach of the dish, so if your outdoor location does not have one, you may need an electrician to run a line. This is not a Starlink cost but something to consider if you are planning installation.

There are no hidden monthly fees, taxes, or service charges beyond the stated $120. Starlink bills the same amount every month unless the company raises its base price.

Whether the upfront cost is worth it

The $600 equipment fee makes sense if you plan to use Starlink for at least six months. If you are testing it for a shorter period or unsure whether satellite internet will work for you, the cost is a real barrier. Some areas have community programs or nonprofits that loan or subsidize Starlink equipment for people in rural areas without other options — ask your local library or county extension office whether such a program exists near you.

If you are comparing Starlink to cable or fiber that is available at your address, the upfront cost tips the scale toward the traditional provider unless you value Starlink's unlimited data or portability. If Starlink is your only option, the $600 is usually worth it compared to the cost of satellite internet with data caps or the frustration of no internet at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get Starlink for less than $120 per month?

Not through Starlink directly. The $120 monthly plan is the standard residential rate. The Starlink Mini costs $50 per month but requires a $599 device purchase. Some nonprofits or government programs in rural areas may subsidize Starlink equipment, but you would still pay the monthly service fee.

Do I have to pay the $600 equipment fee all at once?

Yes. Starlink requires the full $600 upfront when you place your order. You cannot split the payment across multiple months or add it to your monthly bill. The equipment ships to you, and service begins once the dish is installed and activated.

What happens to my equipment if I cancel?

The dish and router are yours to keep. You do not return them or pay a restocking fee. If you cancel and later want to reactivate service, you can use the same equipment without buying it again.

Are there any monthly fees besides the $120?

No. Starlink charges $120 per month for standard residential service and nothing else on a recurring basis. There are no set up fees, service charges, or taxes added to your bill beyond the base monthly rate.

Does Starlink offer discounts for longer contracts?

No. Starlink does not offer discounts for committing to a contract, and it does not require one. The price is the same whether you sign up for one month or plan to stay indefinitely.