Centurylink vs. Cox

Whether you’re researching Centurylink vs. Cox internet service at your current address, comparing internet options for potential locations, or just researching alternatives, this detailed comparison will help you understand which provider best suits you.

Centurylink and Cox compete directly in approximately 19.71% of their service areas, with Centurylink covering 40,883,758 people nationwide and Cox serving 23,486,306. Centurylink primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; Cox specializes in cable connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Centurylink and Cox's availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

Jump to: Availability | Speeds | Plans & Pricing | Customer Reviews | Fees

Centurylink vs. Cox | Pros & Cons

Centurylink vs. Cox | Availability

Centurylink and Cox have distinct coverage footprints across the United States. Our interactive map shows exactly where each provider offers service and where they overlap, helping you understand your options.

Both Providers Available | Centurylink Available | Cox Available | No Coverage

Centurylink currently offers internet service in 5,322 cities and 572 counties across 20 states, reaching approximately 40,883,758 residents. Their service area includes major markets like Phoenix, AZ; Minneapolis, MN; and Denver, CO. By comparison, Cox serves 23,486,306 residents in 1,073 cities and 154 counties in 19 states, with a presence in population centers such as Phoenix, AZ; San Diego, CA; and Las Vegas, NV.

Internet availability can vary significantly even within specific cities and zip codes. For the most accurate information about Centurylink and Cox at your location, use our address search tool:

Centurylink vs. Cox | Speeds & Technology

Centurylink and Cox utilize different network technologies to deliver internet service, resulting in varying speed capabilities across their service areas.

Across their service areas, Centurylink primarily delivers internet through DSL, available to 93.9% of their customers. They also offer fiber to 18.5% of their coverage area. Cox relies on cable technology, which comprises 95.4% of their network, with fiber available in 9.6% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, Cox offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 1,966 Mbps compared to Centurylink's average speed of 238 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Cox delivers faster speeds in 0.30% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 0.22%, and slower speeds in 99.47%.

The availability of each provider's fastest technology varies significantly by location. Centurylink's premium Fiber service reaches 18.5% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, Cox's top-tier Cable is available to 95.4% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

Centurylink vs. Cox | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Centurylink and Cox, sourced directly from FCC-mandated machine-readable broadband labels to ensure transparency and accuracy. We've included both promotional and standard rates for each provider to give you a complete picture of what you'll pay over time. Plan availability and exact pricing may vary by location.

Centurylink Plans

Cox Plans

Most households with 3-5 users need download speeds of at least 100 Mbps for smooth streaming, video conferencing, and everyday internet usage. Larger households or those with heavy users (gamers, 4K streamers, or remote workers) should consider plans with speeds of 300 Mbps or more for optimal performance.

Any prices listed are the base service rates and may not include additional charges such as equipment fees, installation costs, or other service-related expenses. For a comprehensive view of all potential charges, refer to our Fees & Details section below.

Centurylink vs. Cox | Customer Ratings & Reviews

Compare how real customers rate Centurylink and Cox based on our comprehensive database of verified customer reviews across all service types.

When comparing customer satisfaction, Centurylink earns an overall rating of 3.31 / 5 stars from 163 customer reviews, while Cox maintains a 3.17 / 5 rating from 407 reviews. Centurylink outperforms Cox by 0.14 points in overall satisfaction. Centurylink's best-rated service is their fiber offering at 3.84 / 5 stars, compared to Cox's highest-rated service, fixed wireless, at 3.90 / 5 stars.

When comparing internet providers, remember that advertised prices rarely tell the complete story. Equipment fees alone can add $10-15 per month to your bill, while installation charges, early termination fees, and data overage penalties can significantly increase your total cost of service. Consider these additional costs alongside monthly rates when determining which provider offers the better value for your specific needs.

Centurylink vs. Cox | Top Cities

Centurylink serves 5,322 cities while Cox is available in 1,073 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.