Survey Finds Digital Divide Holding Steady

A recent, far-ranging survey of 10 states found that while 82 percent of respondents own computers, only 65 percent have broadband connections. And, among low-income people, just 38 percent have broadband.

These findings were compiled and published by Connected Nation, a telecommunications coalition and a Speed Matters partner. It surveyed about 10,000 adults in a sampling of states from Alaska to Florida “to measure technology adoption (including speeds and prices) and usage.” Then, Connected Nation questioned 15,000 people who do not have broadband.

Among some of the other findings: the top two broadband activities are email and banking. The average download speed is 4.8 mbps. And, the median monthly bill is $45.73.

Those without broadband had a variety of reasons for not subscribing, but interestingly, the top two – both at 18 percent – were expense and “no content worth viewing.” Six percent said it was too complicated, and four percent said they didn’t know what broadband was.

Like Connected Nation, CWA believes that leaving over a third of Americans off the broadband net means that those people enjoy a lower level of civic participation, and struggle more in the job market and with things like health care. The answer is a combination of public and private investment to spur deployment, training, and lower the costs of broadband connections and devices.

Connected Nation Consumer Broadband Adoption Trends (Oct., 2011)

Connected Nation National Advisors