Broadband Price Rise 2025: What UK Households Need to Know

December 5th, 2025
Broadband Price Rise 2025: What UK Households Need to Know

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The broadband price rise that UK households will see in 2025 is set to become one of the biggest issues for people who use telecom services this year. Big networks, along with some new fibre providers, are making mid-contract price jumps every year. This to could have you and other customers paying as much as £84 more during a normal deal. A few companies are now bringing in larger fixed percentage increases for those who make a new deal from late 2024. This means your bills may keep going up even if inflation goes down.

For many people, home broadband is now as important as having electricity or heat in the house. Still, bills for home broadband keep changing, which makes it hard to know what you will pay each month. This is becoming a bigger problem right now.

  • More people now use fibre broadband as they work from home.
  • Streaming and gaming both need faster download speeds to work well.
  • Old copper networks are being closed, with full fibre broadband taking their place.
  • A lot of people are still using deals that have expired, so they pay much more than they should for these.

If you are near the end of your contract, already out of contract, or feel worried about monthly price increases, it is good to know about these changes. Understanding how the monthly price could go up, and knowing how you can switch, helps you avoid paying more than you have to.

This longer guide gives you all you need to know. It tells you why prices go up, who feels the change, and how different providers match up. You will also find the best broadband deals and Black Friday 2025 savings here. We show you how to check your broadband speed, see your contract length, and look at what you can do if you want a better deal.

Check broadband deals to see if you could pay less

Why broadband prices are going up again in 2025

Broadband providers have put up their prices each year for several years. They usually do this using an inflation-linked formula like CPI or RPI plus 3.9% more. Even though inflation is not as high now, many networks are choosing fixed price rises or bigger starting increases.

The main reasons given include:

Investment in full fibre networks

The UK is moving fast to set up digital systems powered by optic cables. The country is replacing old copper wires. To put down thousands of miles of full fibre, there has to be a lot of money spent.

Higher operating and energy costs

Providers see higher energy bills for data centres and networks as people use the internet more, mainly at peak times.

Customer service and security upgrades

Modern broadband networks need ongoing investment in cyber-security. They also need strong network monitoring. New tools for customer service are important, too.

Falling revenue from old services

As people move away from copper broadband and stop using home phone services, networks will make less money from old services.

For homes, this means you will see higher bills. The contract terms will be more tricky. This is true when you read about things like CPI forecasts, fixed fees, and full terms that are not clear.

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Has Ofcom made any changes regarding broadband contract price increases in 2025?

Ofcom started looking at price rises every year in 2023. But in 2025, the regulator has done more to help people feel safer about broadband bills that change without warning. Ofcom is still talking to people about the final changes, but the regulator has already shared some key new rules. These rules will soon come in and help make broadband prices simple, fair, and easy for everyone to understand.

1. Clearer pricing rules from providers

From 2025, Ofcom says broadband companies must give clear contract terms when you join. This means:

  • explaining exactly how annual increases are calculated in the contract in plain words
  • using clearer and simpler language in every part of the contract
  • showing the total minimum cost so you know what you will pay
  • avoiding tricky inflation-linked formulas that often get lost in small print

This means that new customers will not be surprised by confusing price changes and extra percentage increases.

2. Ending CPI+% style rises for some new contracts

Ofcom says that broadband companies should stop using price increase rules that people cannot easily figure out on their own.
This change affects the well-known “CPI + 3.9%” model that has been used for years.

While these terms are not officially banned, Ofcom has said they may not be okay to use.

  • be too confusing
  • make bills that no one can predict
  • make it hard to compare the providers

As a result, many providers have started getting ready to offer simpler fixed-price plans for 2025 and 2026.

3. Customers must be told their specific increase upfront

Under the new rules, providers must let customers know the exact amount their bills will go up. This means, instead of using a vague formula based on inflation, customers will be able to see wording such as:

  • “Your bill will go up by £3 each month in April.”
  • “Your contract price will be 5% more every year.”

This will help people compare offers. They can also see what the cost will be over time.

4. Easier rights to leave if terms are unclear

Ofcom has confirmed that if a provider:

  • changes the way its price goes up
  • changes how it works out the rise in price
  • changes contract terms so they are not like what both sides first said yes to

…customers could get the chance to leave without paying an exit fee.

This helps customers by making sure there are no sudden or unexpected changes during their contract length.

5. Ongoing consultation about banning mid-contract increases entirely

Ofcom is also actively exploring whether to:

  • put a limit on yearly price increases
  • set a top limit on what broadband companies can ask for
  • or stop all mid-contract price hikes altogether

This is still being talked about for 2025–2026. But, this is the strongest sign yet that stricter rules will be coming soon.

6. Ofcom pushing for better value and simpler comparisons

The regulator says that broadband companies can not give prices that trick people or cover up extra costs with confusing plans. This means:

  • clearer way to compare different providers
  • easier for people to see the best broadband deals
  • simpler for customers to switch if they want a better deal
  • less chance of sudden monthly price increases

These updates try to help UK homes by making the broadband market more open. They also want things to be fair for people.

Has Ofcom made any changes regarding broadband contract price increases in 2025

Compare broadband offers before your next price rise

How mid-contract price rises work

Mid-contract increases happen when your provider puts up the cost of your broadband while you are still in the contract. The provider must tell you clearly about this when you sign up. If they do not, you may be able to leave without any extra fees.

A typical clause might say:

  • “Your plan will go up every April. It will increase by the CPI plus 3.9%.”
  • “Prices will go up each year by a set 5%.”
  • “Your monthly bill can change by a fixed amount. This change may be because of inflation or how much it costs to run things.”

The problem is that a lot of people do not know how much they will pay over time. They often do not see the real cost. Price rises also add up when you have:

  • a long contract length. For example, this could be 24 months.
  • higher-speed packages.
  • add-ons like weekend calls or mobile SIMs.
  • premium Wi-Fi boosters.

This is why it is important to read your contract and know the minimum term.

Who is affected by the 2025 broadband price rise?

The new increases primarily affect customers who:

  • signed a new contract on or after late 2024
  • agreed to terms that say prices will go up every year
  • are not on a fixed-price or social tariff
  • pay by direct debit, so when prices change, they will be updated just like that

You are likely affected if:

  • your contract says there will be annual price rises
  • you have a fibre or full fibre broadband package
  • you upgraded your broadband connection within the last year
  • you are still within your minimum term

You are not affected if:

  • you are on a social tariff
  • your deal clearly states “fixed-price for the contract term”
  • your broadband service comes from a network that says there will be no price increases during your contract
  • you have finished your contract and now pay month by month

For all people, your price will go up automatically. This will happen on your next bill after the yearly increase takes place.

How do Vodafone and Three’s price increases compare to other providers?

Vodafone and Three will raise prices more each year for the people who start using their service from November 2024 or later. Their new rules are as follows:

  • There will be bigger yearly price increases starting in April 2025.
  • Entry-level and mobile broadband plans will have higher rises.
  • Some types of contracts will also let your bill go up by a larger amount.

Compared with other providers:

Networks with higher annual rises

Some big networks, mostly ones that have both broadband and mobile phone plans in one, still use CPI plus 3.9% or more as a set increase.

Networks with moderate rises

Mid-tier networks usually raise prices as inflation goes up. But, they might change how they set prices each year based on what things cost.

Providers with no mid-contract rises

Some other internet providers now offer fixed-price contracts. A lot of these providers only use full-fibre networks. They are getting more popular with people who want stable prices and no surprises.

How much will customers pay after the broadband price rise?

The exact amount can change. It depends on the package, the contract, and the provider. Here is a bigger example to help make it clear.

CPI + 3.9% example (assuming CPI is 4%)

Monthly Cost Increase % New Monthly Price Extra Cost per Year
£25 7.9% £26.98 £23.76
£30 7.9% £32.37 £28.44
£40 7.9% £43.16 £37.92
£55 7.9% £59.34 £52.08
£65 7.9% £70.13 £61.56

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Fixed % example (5% and 8%)

Monthly Cost Fixed Rise New Price Extra Cost per Year
£25 5% £26.25 £15.00
£40 5% £42.00 £24.00
£50 8% £54.00 £48.00
£60 8% £64.80 £57.60

Customers who get premium faster speeds, like 500 Mbps or 900 Mbps, often see the biggest increases.

How broadband price rises affect different types of broadband

Fibre broadband (FTTC)

Uses part-copper, part-fibre connection

  • Speeds are moderate.
  • How far you are from the street cabinet can affect your connection.
  • Average download speeds can change a lot.

Full fibre broadband (FTTP)

Uses optic cables only

  • The speed is very fast.
  • You will get more reliable broadband speed.
  • There is lower delay.
  • It is coming to more places.
  • The pricing is often simple.
  • Some providers do not raise prices during your contract.

Mobile broadband

Uses 4G or 5G

  • This is good for homes that do not have fixed phone lines.
  • There can be slowdowns when lots of people are using it at the same time.
  • Many people use this as a short-term or backup internet connection.

Home broadband with phone line

Copper line included

  • Requires line rental
  • Being phased out by 2027

See if a better-value broadband plan is available

Best broadband deals available in November 2025

Broadband prices go up and down every month. Different providers have many packages you can pick from. What is offered depends on where you live, how fast you want your internet to be, and if there are any new deals. It is not possible to list the exact prices, but there are typical deals for November 2025.

  • get discounts on full fibre deals when you are a new customer
  • pay less for entry-level fibre broadband if you’re a light user
  • find bundled deals that give you broadband and weekend calls together
  • enjoy lower prices on faster speeds, such as 150–500 Mbps
  • save on setup fees for full fibre lines
  • get rewards when you switch from your old provider

For the best and most accurate prices where you live, use a postcode checker. When you compare broadband deals, you will see offers in your exact area. This can help you get the one that works best for you.

Are there any special broadband offers for Black Friday 2025?

Yes — Black Friday is now one of the top days for people to change their broadband. Many Black Friday deals for broadband offer things like:

  • The first 3-6 months have reduced prices.
  • You get free setup or you pay less to start.
  • You can get faster broadband speeds for no extra money.
  • There is cashback or a bill credit.
  • The contract is shorter and the price stays fixed.
  • You get free Wi-Fi boosters.
  • There are discounts on mobile broadband add-ons.

Black Friday is often the best way to get great value on full fibre broadband. This is true if you are not under contract anymore. Many people say Black Friday deals can save you money on full fibre or fibre broadband. If you want to change your plan, this is a good time. You can find the best way to get new internet at a lower price on this day.

Are there any special broadband offers for Black Friday 2025

Are you overpaying? How out-of-contract broadband increases your bill

If your minimum term is over, your current provider might have put you on a plan with a higher monthly price.

Typical out-of-contract increases:

  • The cost for fibre is £8 to £20 each month.
  • For full fibre, you pay £15 to £25 every month.
  • You pay more if you pick premium gigabit packages.

This is why changing your internet provider is often the best broadband way to save money. People who are not tied to a contract can get the most by checking what other choices are out there.

How to check your contract length, speed and upcoming price rise

  1. Refer to your latest bill
    You can see the contract end date, what you pay each month, and when your next price rise will be.
  2. Run a speed test
    A speed test will let you see your current speed. You can look at this next to your plan’s average speed.
  3. Check your contract terms
    You should read the contract terms and look out for things like “annual price rise”, “CPI + 3.9%”, or “fixed amount increase”.
  4. Use a comparison service
    Type in your postcode. Find out what providers, speeds, and deals are in your area.

How to avoid monthly price increases

Switch when out of contract

Switching is the best way to make sure you do not pay more than you have to, especially if your old contract has gone up.

Choose fixed-price broadband

These deals make sure there be no changes in price while you have your contract.

Consider full fibre broadband

Many full fibre networks give you stable prices and better value. You also get faster speeds with them.

Use comparison tools

Looking at different offers can help you see which one is the best deal for your needs. It also depends on where you are and how you use it. This way, you get the best deal for you.

Check eligibility for social tariffs

Many households that do not make a lot of money can get lower pricing.

Correct as of 13 November 2025

FAQs: About the broadband price rise

Does the broadband price rise affect fibre and full fibre customers differently?

Yes. Full fibre customers often see slightly higher annual increases because these packages have higher starting prices and include newer network infrastructure. Fibre (FTTC) customers may see smaller increases but still face mid-contract rises if these were written into their terms.

How do I know if my broadband price rise is allowed under my contract?

Check the exact price rise wording in the “price changes” or “future increases” section of your contract. If the rise doesn’t match what was originally stated, you may have the right to leave without paying an early exit fee.

Is switching broadband in 2025 easier because of One Touch Switch?

Yes. The One Touch Switch process removes most of the admin and lets your new provider handle the switch. This makes it simpler to move between broadband providers without disruption.

Why does my broadband bill increase even though my download speed hasn’t changed?

Annual increases are usually linked to inflation or fixed-percentage rises built into the contract. They happen regardless of whether your broadband speed improves during the contract period.

How often can broadband providers increase prices during a contract?

Most providers apply one increase per year. However, if your contract terms allow it, these rises can occur annually during a 12- or 24-month contract.

Can I downgrade my broadband speed to reduce my bill?

In some cases, yes. If you’re out of contract, you can switch to a cheaper package or reduce your speed tier. If you’re in contract, downgrading is usually not allowed unless your provider agrees.

What happens if my broadband price rise takes me above my budget?

You can explore fixed-price deals, switch to a cheaper speed tier when out of contract, check eligibility for a social tariff, or compare broadband deals to find a better-value provider.

Does Ofcom protect customers from unfair broadband price rises?

Yes. Ofcom has introduced new transparency rules for 2025 and is consulting on banning or limiting mid-contract increases that are unclear or unpredictable.

Why are full fibre deals sometimes cheaper than older copper broadband?

Full fibre networks offer more efficient infrastructure and lower maintenance costs, which allows some providers to offer competitive prices despite faster speeds.

Do broadband price rises apply to business broadband contracts?

Yes. Many business broadband contracts also include annual price changes, although the terms and notice periods can differ depending on the provider.

What causes a broadband price rise?

Inflation, how much it costs to run things, and putting money into the network can be the main things that make prices go up.

Can I leave because of a price rise?

If your contract did not clearly say this when you joined, then this point will not apply to you.

Which providers don’t raise prices mid-contract?

Some full-fibre networks and value providers set prices that stay the same for a set time.

Are Black Friday broadband deals worth it?

Yes — these deals often have big cuts in price, faster speeds, and bill credits.

What are the best broadband deals in November 2025?

Deals change based on your postcode, speed, and the provider you choose. The best way to get what you need is to look at different offers and compare them.

Does switching broadband require a credit check?

Yes, most places will do a credit check when you join.

Do I need a phone line for fibre broadband?

Full fibre works without needing a copper phone line. But some older packages still use a phone line.

What type of broadband is best for heavy users?

Full fibre broadband is the fastest broadband you can get. It gives a steady and strong connection. This kind of fibre broadband is better than other types, so you will have fewer problems with your internet. With full fibre, you can do more on the internet, like streaming, working, or downloading, without slowdowns.

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