A survey from Cox Communications found that 86% of consumers with recently available high-speed internet in previously underserved1 communities say the service has improved their lives.
Why It Matters
Those living in rural areas and/or regions lacking high-speed internet access are often hindered in their economic growth and face challenges accessing resources, including education and healthcare.
Cox is continuing its efforts to broaden high-speed internet availability, with the aim of creating greater opportunities for economic and educational advancement through connectivity. Over the past year and a half, the company has expanded its fiber network to reach more than 50,000 households in Ariz., Fla., Kan., Neb., Okla., and Va. that were previously unserved or underserved.
“Our survey shows that a high-speed internet connection brings optimism and economic prosperity to rural communities,” said Mark Greatrex, president of Cox Communications. “By connecting these households, residents are empowered to learn, increase their earning potential and thrive.”
What’s More
The Cox Expansion Impact survey polled the company’s high-speed internet customers in new market areas, previously considered unserved or underserved. Conducted in December 2023, the survey found high-speed internet stimulates economic growth in rural communities, narrows the education gap between lower- and higher-income households and encourages younger generations to remain in their communities, with greater prospects of remote learning and working.
Go Deeper
Key findings are that new access to high-speed internet:
- Improves the lives of 86% of respondents.
- Encourages 70% of respondents 30 or younger to stay in their community.
- Has a greater positive impact on younger than older generations, at 73% for millennials and younger and 45% for Gen X and older.
- Provides 80% of respondents with better connectivity to family and friends.
- Allows the majority of respondents to feel more…
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