How Much Does Starlink Cost in India, Pakistan & The USA?
In today’s connected world, fast and reliable internet is a must. Yet, many rural and remote areas still lack good broadband. That’s where Starlink comes in. This satellite internet service from Elon Musk aims to close the digital gap by offering high-speed internet from space. But how much does it cost in India, Pakistan, and the USA?
Let’s look at Starlink pricing in key regions. We’ll compare costs and answer common questions.
Understanding Starlink’s Cost Structure
Before diving into country-specific pricing, it’s crucial to understand Starlink’s general cost model. Typically, Starlink involves two main components:
- Hardware Cost (One-time): This is the initial cost for the Starlink Kit. It usually includes the Starlink dish (known as “Dishy”), a mounting tripod, a Wi-Fi router, a power supply, and cables. This equipment is crucial for getting the satellite signal.
- Monthly Subscription Fee: This is the recurring cost for the internet service, offering unlimited data in most standard residential plans. 6
Let’s see how these costs translate to India, Pakistan, and the USA.
Starlink Cost in India: Bridging the Digital Divide
India has a large area, and many people live in rural areas. This presents a big chance for Starlink. Starlink’s official launch has faced delays and regulatory challenges. However, recent reports show it is close to starting operations.
Starlink Hardware Cost India:
As of June/July 2025, the Starlink hardware cost in India is about ₹33,000. This one-time fee includes the Standard Kit.
The kit has:
- an antenna
- a mounting stand
- a possible third-generation Wi-Fi router
- a power supply
- Starlink cables
- an adapter
This pricing is similar to Starlink’s in nearby countries like Bangladesh and Bhutan. It is also about ₹33,000.
There, Starlink Monthly Fee India / Starlink Subscription Cost India:
The monthly cost for Starlink internet in India is about ₹3,000 to ₹4,200 for unlimited data. Some reports say initial promotional rates could be even lower.
Starlink India Launch Cost / Starlink Internet Cost India (Overall):
To start with Starlink in India, you’ll need about ₹33,000 for hardware and ₹3,000 to ₹4,200 for the first month’s subscription. Starlink plans to offer a free one-month trial with each device purchase, which would help new customers manage their costs better. Starlink’s primary focus in India will be on rural areas with trouble getting traditional broadband.
Starlink vs Local Providers in India:
In urban and semi-urban areas, India has a competitive broadband market. Providers like Reliance JioFiber and Airtel Xstream offer high speeds, reaching 1 Gbps. Their monthly rates are low, often starting at ₹400-₹600. Local providers usually have much lower hardware costs. Sometimes, these costs are even waived with long-term plans. Starlink’s main strength is its high-speed internet for areas that lack service. These places often have no reliable infrastructure. So, Starlink provides essential access, though it comes at a higher cost.
Starlink Cost in Pakistan: An Emerging Market
Pakistan has many people and faces connectivity issues in remote areas. It is a potential market for Starlink. An official launch is not yet confirmed, but there are hints and estimated prices from global trends and pre-order data.
Starlink Hardware Cost Pakistan:
The estimated cost for Starlink hardware in Pakistan is about PKR 110,000 for the Residential Package and PKR 220,000 for the Business Package. These are one-time costs for the necessary equipment.
Starlink Monthly Fee Pakistan / Starlink Subscription Cost Pakistan:
For the monthly subscription, the Starlink Pakistan prices are:
- Residential Package (50-250 Mbps): about PKR 35,000.
- Business Package (100-500 Mbps): around PKR 95,000.
- Mobility Package (for on-the-go): PKR 50,000, plus hardware costs of PKR 120,000.
Starlink Pakistan Package Price (Overall):
The starting cost for Starlink in Pakistan is about PKR 110,000 for hardware. Then, add the first month’s fee of PKR 35,000. In total, that’s PKR 145,000.
Starlink vs Local Providers in Pakistan:
Like in India, broadband providers in Pakistan have cheaper plans and lower hardware costs in cities. However, their reach is often limited to developed areas. Starlink can be a game-changer for remote, unserved villages and regions. Many of these places have no internet or very slow, unreliable connections. Starlink might be pricier, but it provides vital links for education, business, and communication.
Starlink Cost in the USA: The Home Turf
The Uink first launched in the USA as the most established presence. It is still there. It offers different plans for everyone, including homes, mobile users, and businesses.
Starlink Hardware Cost USA / Starlink One-time Cost USA:
The Starlink Standard Kit (Residential) costs $349.20 in the USA. This price has changed before; it used to be $599. Starlink sometimes has deals. For example, you can get a $0 standard kit if you commit to a 12-month residential service plan. The costs for software like the Starlink Mini (portable) are as follows: The Flat High Performance equipment, which is best for Global Priority, costs $1,499.
Starlink Monthly Fee USA / Starlink Subscription Cost USA / Starlink USA Residential Cost:
Starlink offers several plans in the USA:
- Residential Lite: StartThis. This plan starts at $80 a month for low-usage, small homes. It offers unlimited deprioritised data with download speeds of 50-100 Mbps and upload speeds of 5-20 Mbps.
- Residential (Standard): This is the most popular plan. It costs $120 per month. You get unlimited data with download speeds of 150-250 Mbps and upload speeds of 5-20 Mbps.
- Roam: This plan is perfect for people on the go, like RVers and campers. It starts at $50 per month for 50GB of priority data. If you want more, “Roam Unlimited” costs $165 monthly.” Hardware for Roam is $349 or $599 for Starlink Mini.
- Local Priority & Global Priority: These plans cater to businesses or maritime users. They have various data limits and high prices. Costs range from $65 to over $2,150 each month, plus hardware fees.
In some crowded areas in the USA, Starlink may charge a one-time “congestion charge”. This fee can be between $100 and $500. They plan to remove this charge as network capacity gets better.
Starlink USA Residential Cost (Overall):
To start with the standard residential plan in the USA, you’ll need $349 for hardware and $120 for the first month’s subscription, for $469.
Starlink vs. Local Providers USA:
In many US cities and suburbs, fiber and cable internet providers deliver fast speeds—some reach gigabit levels. Their prices can be competitive, sometimes lower than Starlink’s monthly fee. This is especially true when bundled with other services. Starlink is often the only option for high-speed internet in rural areas with limited infrastructure, which makes its value much higher, even with the cost. Starlink’s Roam plans offer a unique benefit that traditional providers can’t match.
Starlink Price Comparison: India vs. Pakistan vs. USA
| Country | Launch Status | Hardware Cost | Monthly Cost |
| India | Licence pending, imminent | ₹33,000 (est.) ≈ $360 | ≈ ₹3,000/mo ($36/mo) (est.) |
| Pakistan | NOC acquired, launching mid‑2025 | PKR 110,000 ≈ $400 (residential) | PKR 35,000/mo ≈ $90/mo |
| USA | Fully operational | $599 (standard); higher for business | $80–$120/mo Residential roam plans $50–$165/mo |
Here are the key cost figures for standard residential service in these three countries. Remember, these are rough estimates. Exchange rates change, so final prices may differ.
Feature/Country
India (Expected)
Pakistan (Estimated)
USA (Current)
Hardware Cost
₹33,000 (approx. USD 395)
PKR 110,000 (approx. USD 390)
USD 349
Monthly Fee
₹3,000 – ₹4,200 (approx. $36 – USD 50)
PKR 35,000 (approx. USD 124)
$120 (Standard Residential)
Observations from the Starlink price comparison India vs Pakistan vs USA:
- Hardware Consistency: The hardware cost in USD is similar in India and Pakistan. It also matches current prices in the USA. This suggests a standardized global pricing strategy for the physical equipment.
- Monthly Fee Disparity: The most significant difference is monthly subscription fees. Pakistan’s monthly costs are higher than India’s and the USA’s rates. This could be because of several factors, including duties, taxes, market demand, and regulations. Also, Starlink is still new in Pakistan. India’s monthly fees are the lowest of the three. This makes it a great choice if the final pricing stays the same.
- Purchasing Power: The raw USD conversion shows a clear comparison. However, consider the average purchasing power in each country. A $120 monthly fee for high-speed internet in rural USA seems fair. But in Pakistan, 5,000 is a big chunk of the average income, so it’s a premium service in Pakistan. In India, ₹3,000-₹4,200 is also a lot for many families, especially in rural areas.
Starlink vs. Local Providers: A Crucial Distinction
When evaluating Starlink’s cost, it’s vital to assess it against the available alternatives.
- Urban/Developed Areas: In rural areas, local optic and cable providers often deliver fast speeds. Sometimes in cities and nearby towns, these speeds reach gigabit levels. This is frequently at a much lower monthly cost than Starlink. Their hardware costs are low or even covered. In these cases, Starlink usually isn’t cost-effective unless you need portability. This is important for RVs or remote work.
- Rural/Remote Areas: This is where Starlink truly shines. Starlink is a game changer in places where regular broadband is missing, unreliable, or just doesn’t work. Its costs may look high compared to urban plans. However, it offers excellent value. It connects people to education, remote work, telemedicine, and entertainment in underserved areas. For many, it’s not just about finding cheap local plans. It’s about having reliable internet access.
Conclusion: The Price of Progress
In the USA, Starlink serves as a key option for rural users. It provides competitive pricing and various plans for satellite service. India’s upcoming launch aims to close the connectivity gap in rural areas. Hardware costs will meet regional standards. Monthly fees will be low, but they may still be a significant investment for some. In Pakistan, costs seem higher, showing that the service is more premium. This likely stems from economic factors and the newness of the technology.
The “cost” of Starlink is not just a number. It’s about opening digital doors for millions who lack access to traditional infrastructure. As Starlink grows its constellation and improves operations, pricing may change. Prices may drop as more companies join the satellite internet market. As they grow, economies of scale will increase. For people in remote areas, Starlink is more than an internet provider. It links to the modern world; many are ready to pay.
