What Amount Should You Spend on a Cell Phone Plan?
Typical cell phone plan prices
| Carrier type | Typical monthly cost (one line) |
|---|---|
| Budget / prepaid carriers | $15 - $40 |
| Discount carriers on major networks | $25 - $50 |
| Major national carriers | $55 - $90 |
| Family plans (per line, 3-4 lines) | $25 - $55 |
What changes the price
- Data limits and whether data is truly unlimited
- Number of lines
- Autopay and paperless discounts
- Phone payments bundled into the bill
- Taxes and fees that may or may not be included in the advertised price
How to stop overpaying
Look at how much data you actually use, check whether your phone is unlocked, and compare coverage in the places you spend most of your time before switching. A cheaper plan is no bargain if the signal is bad where you live or work.
Helium Mobile
Helium Mobile is a low-cost carrier that runs on partner networks plus community-built Wi-Fi and cell coverage. Plans, coverage, and referral rewards change, so check the current details before switching. See Helium Mobile (referral code: UITC3AP).
Disclosure: some links on this site may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. See the full disclosure. Prices are typical ranges as of October 2026 and change often, so confirm current pricing with the provider before buying.