2026 Update: Getting WIFI and a local US number
I left Singapore for the US, thinking that I’d be moving to a more developed country, home of the best minds and tech inventions, and thus everything would be better, faster, and stronger.
Well, contrary to my belief, I got a downgrade in internet speed. If you’re a newcomer, know that options today are way better than what I had in 2016, so be happy and read on!
1. Getting WIFI at home
There are 2 dominant providers of internet service in the Boston area - Xfinity and Verizon Fios. You’ll likely end up with one or the other. Yes, you could read that there are other providers that offer high-speed internet at low cost... but in reality, you could throw out that research.
Research about network coverage does not matter when coverage strength is not homogenous within a town.
A provider could claim that they cover X town, but within that town, there could be areas that are super spotty. At the end of the day, it boils down to specifically where you live.
My advice for the brave is to go knock on a couple of neighbors’ doors to ask what internet service they use, and if they like the speed. Go with the popular vote.
Another approach that requires less bravado - ask the real estate agent or building manager :)
Getting Xfinity
A major benefit of being an Xfinity customer is that they have public WIFI hotspots all over the US. So if you often work remotely and don’t like using the hotspot from your phone, you may find Xfinity helpful.
Steps to enroll:
Address. Specific address, not just the town.
Visit a store near you. You'll need to grab the WIFI equipment at the end of it.
No Credit Check option*: If you need WIFI before you even get your Social Security Number (SSN) issued, Xfinity offers a No Credit Check option where you could set up an account as long as you make a $25 prepayment towards your first bill on that very day itself.
*Honestly, not helpful. To qualify, you'd need your Xfinity account to be set up with auto-payment through a US bank account. The Xfinity account and US bank account both need to be held by the same person... You need an SSN/ITIN to open a US bank account. Catch-22 just got you. 👻
Getting Verzion Fios
Steps to enroll:
Address. Specific address, not just the town.
Visit a store near you. You'll need to grab the WIFI equipment at the end of it.
Social security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). MUST. Verizon requires it to run a soft credit check.
$99 one time set up fee
2. Getting a local US number (for those with an SSN)
The main providers of mobile plans are AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. They are the biggest companies, thus offer the best overall coverage, network reliability, and full features (traditional voice calls, SMS, and roaming options are included).
There are a bunch of articles on the web that analyze 5G speeds and carrier deals, so you're into that, go knock yourself out. Word of advice: check which service holds up where you live. City dwellers (Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, etc.) will generally do fine with any of these providers. If you plan to be in the suburbs though, you could be dealing with dead spots if you don't pick right. The best way to figure it out is to speak to someone who lives in your neighborhood.
A plus side of going with one of these carriers is that they often have perks like phone financing, free Netflix/Hulu/Disney streaming or deals that come with bundling your phone and home internet plans.
The downside of going with these carriers is that if you are new to the US and do not yet have an SSN, you will not be able to secure a contract- all postpaid plans offered by these companies require a credit check that can only be done if you have an SSN. If you’re newly relocated to Boston, you should get your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer's Identification Number (ITIN) before you visit these stores.
3. No SSN, but need a US number? 3 Options: eSIM, prepaid SIM, and VoIP apps
eSIM (for phones without a SIM card slot)
eSIMs are increasingly the way to go, given that newer phones today no longer have a physical SIM slot. Unlike traditional carrier plans, getting on an eSIM plan does not require a credit or SSN check. Research coverage in your area before committing to an eSIM plan, as no plan is worth the money if there isn't reliable coverage.
Popular eSIM options for Boston and Greater Boston:
Key differences in using an eSIM vs. a traditional carrier plan:
No SSN or credit check
Better value: You can get unlimited data for a lower price
Flexibility: There are no rigid 24-month contracts. You can terminate whenever you wish.
Remote activation: You do not need to visit a physical store. You can download the app before you fly (or at the airport with free WIFI) and be connected the second you land.
P.S. Make sure your phone is "Carrier Unlocked" before you start. If your phone is still locked to your home provider, it will not allow you to activate a US eSIM or SIM card!
Prepaid SIM (for phones with a SIM card slot)
Without an SSN, getting a prepaid SIM card is another solution to having a working US number. Prepaid SIM cards can be easily purchased through physical stores of AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, or through big box retailers like Target and Best Buy.
Do not pick this method if you have a Xiaomi phone- Xiaomis are incompatible. 😬
VoIP apps
The VoIP option will cost you nothing if you’re fine with being available when WIFI is. Local libraries have free WIFI, and let’s not forget Starbucks.
VoIP options:
