The best phone plans for families in 2025

Ready to break free from the big three's maze of high costs and complex bills?

While they toast to soaring profits and gear up for yet another round of price increases, they've overlooked one critical thing: you, the savvy consumer, are now more empowered than ever.

With over a decade in the trenches of the wireless world, I've dissected and reviewed 30 alternative carriers and sifted through 100+ phone plans, all to save you the hassle.

The real shocker? Many of these budget-friendly alternatives ride the same high-quality networks you've grown to trust.

Whether you're a light browser, a data devourer, or fall somewhere in the middle, I've pinpointed best value phone plans for families with every type of user on each network. Plus, I've spotlighted the plan that delivers unbeatable value, hands down.

The power of choice is back in your hands.

Tello offers the best family phone plans for low data users

Tello 2GB plan for $10/mo

• T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk and text with 2GB data
• Instant online activation

5

Read our Tello review

See at Tello

Tello strips away the complexity of phone plans-no contracts, no hidden fees, just affordable, flexible service on T-Mobile's network.

Every plan includes free international calls to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico, along with a variety of data options to suit both light and heavy users.

You're in full control with customizable plans, letting you pick the exact amount of talk, text, and data you need, so you never overpay. All plans come with mobile hotspot, with unlimited plans offering up to 5GB, but there are no discounts for multiple lines. Each line is billed separately, though Tello's pricing is still highly competitive.

Switching is easy. eSIM activation takes just a few taps, or you can order a physical SIM card if you prefer.

I compared several alternatives. Ultra Mobile excels in international calling but costs more for the same data. Metro by T-Mobile offers solid service but requires in-store visits and comes at a higher price. Boost Mobile has appealing rates, but hidden fees and unreliable customer service make it harder to recommend.

At the end of the day, Tello wins for affordability, customization, and a hassle-free switching experience.

• Tailor-made plans – Pick exactly what you need, nothing more.
• No long-term commitments – Affordable, transparent pricing with easy plan adjustments.
• Seamless setup – Activate instantly with eSIM or get a SIM card shipped.

Visible offers the best family plan with unlimited data

Visible unlimited plan for $25/mo

• Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

3.4

Read our Visible review

See at Visible

Visible takes the complexity out of wireless plans, offering two simple unlimited options with no contracts, no hidden fees, and no extra costs.

For just $25/month, you get unlimited talk, text, and data, plus mobile hotspot access at speeds of 5–10 Mbps. Upgrade to the Visible+ plan, and you'll receive 50GB of premium data and access to Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband for even faster speeds.

International communication is easy, too. The Visible+ plan includes free international calling to 30+ countries and texting to over 200 destinations. Plus, eSIM activation lets you start service in minutes-no need to wait for a physical SIM card.

While there are no discounts for multiple lines, Visible's low individual pricing makes it a great option for single-line users. Just note that customer support is available online only.

Compared to Tracfone, Xfinity Mobile, and Spectrum Mobile, Visible stands out. Tracfone offers low-cost plans, but data speed limitations make it less appealing for heavy users. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile have solid pricing but require internet service from their respective providers.

For a hassle-free, budget-friendly unlimited plan, Visible is a clear winner.

• Unlimited data, no surprises – No contracts, no hidden charges, just straightforward pricing.
• Built-in extras – Every plan includes mobile hotspot, with international calling & texting on Visible+.
• Fast and simple activation – Use eSIM for instant setup, or order a SIM card.

Total Wireless offers the best family plans with Verizon coverage

Total Wireless unlimited plan for $50/mo

• Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

4

Read our Total Wireless review

See at Total Wireless

Total Wireless delivers affordable, no-contract phone plans on Verizon's 5G & 4G LTE network, ensuring reliable service without the high cost.

Plans include unlimited talk and text, high-speed data options, and mobile hotspot access up to 15GB on select plans.

For international users, Total Wireless offers free calling to 85+ destinations and roaming in Canada and Mexico, making it easy to stay connected.

With no contracts or hidden fees, you have full control over your plan, managing everything online with hassle-free switching.

I compared other low-cost carriers on Verizon's network, and each has drawbacks. Tracfone is budget-friendly but limits high-speed data. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile offer good rates, but require home internet service to qualify.

For an easy, budget-friendly wireless experience with solid coverage, Total Wireless is a top choice.

• Verizon coverage for less – Enjoy the same network without the premium price.
• More than just talk & text – Up to 15GB of hotspot data, plus international calling and roaming perks.
• Total flexibility – No contracts, no activation fees, and simple online account management.

Tello offers the best family plans with T-Mobile coverage

Tello unlimited plan for $25/mo

• T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

5

Read our Tello review

See at Tello

Tello is the perfect solution for those who want affordable, flexible wireless service without hidden fees or unnecessary commitments.

All plans come with free international calling to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico, plus a variety of custom data options to match different usage needs.

Instead of forcing you into a pre-set plan, Tello lets you customize exactly how much data, talk, and text you want, so you never pay for what you don't use. Tello includes mobile hotspot with all plans, though unlimited plans have a 5GB cap, and while there are no multi-line discounts, individual plans are already priced so low that you'll still save.

Switching is simple if you have an eSIM-compatible phone and takes 5 minutes. Prefer a physical SIM? Tello will ship one to you.

I compared several carriers. Ultra Mobile offers strong international calling perks but costs more. Metro by T-Mobile requires in-store activation and has higher prices. Boost Mobile has competitive rates but includes hidden fees and has inconsistent customer service.

For budget-conscious users who want flexibility and no surprises, Tello is a top choice.

• Custom-built plans – Choose only the data, talk, and text you need. You can update your plan anytime with no penalties.
• No contracts or hidden charges – No activation fees, no surprise price hikes, and no long-term commitments.
• Fast and easy activation – Activate instantly with eSIM on compatible devices, or order a SIM card for traditional setup.

Red Pocket offers the best family plans with AT&T coverage

Red Pocket unlimited plan for $30/mo

• AT&T 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

4

Read our Red Pocket review

See at Red Pocket

Red Pocket Mobile offers affordable unlimited plans on AT&T's network, making it an excellent choice for families looking to save.

With a $20 discount per additional line, families can reduce their phone bill significantly compared to major carriers. While a setup fee applies, the long-term savings make it well worth the switch.

Enjoy unlimited talk and text with no hidden fees and up to 30GB of high-speed data, including hotspot access.

Red Pocket Mobile also provides free international calling to 80+ countries and roaming in Mexico and Canada, ensuring global connectivity without extra charges. eSIM users can take advantage of a 7-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service risk-free.

I've reviewed other AT&T-based low-cost carriers, including Cricket Wireless, which costs more despite being AT&T's prepaid brand, H2O Wireless, which offers international perks but doesn't match Red Pocket's value, and Good2Go Mobile, which is affordable but has fewer plan choices.

For affordable unlimited plans with strong family savings and international benefits, Red Pocket Mobile is my top pick.

• Multi-line savings – $20 off each additional line, making family plans budget-friendly.
• Free international perks – Stay connected with calls to 80+ countries and roaming in Mexico & Canada.
• Transparent pricing & no risk – No hidden fees, plus a 7-day eSIM money-back guarantee.

Big wireless: Big prices, big profits, little value

The average phone bill is $155 per month, and while 38 million Americans live in poverty, the government cut funding to the Affordable Connectivity Program, which was assisting 22 million low-income families with subsidized internet and cell phone service.

At the same time, the big three spent January celebrating record profits and multi-billion dollar shareholder dividend payouts while simultaneously announcing yet more price hikes.

So, big wireless continues to raise prices, and the government drops assistance to those in need. However, you do have options, so the power is in your hands.

Take back control of your phone bill

A big wireless unlimited plan will cost you $1,600 extra over the next 3 years compared to getting the same service from an MVNO.

A big wireless unlimited data plan will cost you $2,700 over the next 3 years for just 1 line. In comparison, unlimited plans from a low-cost carrier over the same period would cost only $900.

So, buying directly from Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T is now 3 times more expensive for the same coverage. This does not include fees and taxes or future price hikes.

Why is it so much more expensive to buy the same service directly?

With big wireless, you are paying for multi-billion dollar ad campaigns, stadium sponsorships, and thousands of stores with commission-based salespeople - all these expenses get passed onto you to maximize profits and dividend payouts.

With this next generation of MVNOs, you switch online and just pay for phone service.

Cut your phone bill, not your coverage

These low-cost carriers offer a great alternative with transparent pricing, a range of customizable data plans to fit your needs, and higher-rated customer service.

You can keep your phone, number, coverage, and most importantly, your money!

Even better, it's quick and easy. You can complete the entire switching process online in minutes with an eSIM-compatible phone.

So, now is the time to re-evaluate your options, take back control of your phone bill, and free yourself from price hikes forever!

Compare the cheapest family cell phone plans

Check out our family cell phone comparison to find the best deal.

How to choose the best value carrier for families

• What network do you trust for your family's adventures? Whether in the sprawling suburbs or tucked away in cozy rural communities, reliable coverage is non-negotiable. Fortunately, cost-effective carriers use the same expansive 5G and 4G LTE networks as the big names. The latest Opensignal 5G Experience report from 2023 places T-Mobile at the forefront of 5G reach, but don't worry - choosing an MVNO on your preferred network means smaller bills with no compromise on connectivity.
• How much data does your family actually use? While the market floods with unlimited data offers, you might be surprised to find your family's real consumption is well below the cap, thanks to home Wi-Fi and public hotspots. In fact, the average monthly cellular data usage is 10GB. Affordable carriers tailor plans to your genuine needs, acknowledging that the average family's data usage might not be as high as you think.
• Need hotspot capabilities? Whether it's for homework on the go or keeping entertained on long drives, tethering is a must for families. Thankfully, hotspot functionality is a given, though specifics vary by plan and provider, ensuring you're always just a click away from the information highway.
• Concerned about the price? While traditional family plans can spiral to $75-90 per line, informed families can snag MVNO deals from $5-35 per line, offering substantial savings without skimping on service quality.
• How many lines do you need? Forget the one-size-fits-all approach of major carriers, which favor 4-line bundles. MVNOs champion flexible, affordable pricing, often so low for a single line no extra line discounts are needed. Yet, some still deliver discounts for adding lines - ideal for keeping everyone, from kids to teens and even grandparents, connected under one budget-friendly plan.
• Thinking about devices? We get it - families need to economize. MVNOs empower you to bring your own device, dodging the incessant upgrade cycle. And if you're eyeing a new phone, there are pocket-friendly options available with 0% financing plans.
• Looking for deals or promotions? Skip the big carriers' convoluted offers, which often entail hidden costs. MVNOs prefer to keep it simple with transparent promotions, so you know exactly what you're getting - no surprises.
• What about perks or add-ons? While the allure of "free" streaming services or subscription trials from big brands is tempting, consider if these extras truly benefit your family or if they'll just be another line on your bill. Choose what matches your family's lifestyle to sidestep unnecessary expenses.
• Is international calling on your list? Keeping in touch with loved ones abroad shouldn't be a luxury. Many MVNOs include free international calling to various countries, which is crucial for families with roots or hearts stretched across the globe.
• Keeping tabs on the kiddos? Most low-cost carriers provide tools to manage your child's phone use effectively.

Check out our family phone plan comparison to help find the best deal.

Find the best phone service in your area

Family phone plans FAQs

Recap: What is the ultimate family cell phone plan?

The big three continue on their unwavering path of price hikes, a strategy seemingly less about responding to market needs and more about padding their profits at their customers' expense. Meanwhile, families today face escalating living costs, from groceries to utilities, and every penny counts.

Yet, there's a glimmer of hope for your family's cell phone expenses. By selecting the right carrier, your family can still access the high-quality service you've come to expect, but at a much more affordable rate. Imagine a cheap family phone plan that saves you up to $600 per year for each line.

For families looking to make a savvy switch, the decision is crucial. We've tailored our comprehensive cell phone plan comparison tool with your family in mind. It's crafted to find the perfect match for your family's unique needs and budget.

Family plan guides

• Best Family Cell Phone Plans
• The best prepaid family phone plans for 2025
• Best Phone Plans for 2 Lines
• Best Phone Plans for 3 Lines
• Best Phone Plans for 4 Lines
• Best Phone Plans for 5 Lines
• Cheap prepaid family plans for 2025

How I choose the best carriers and plans

To select the best carriers and plans, I evaluated over 30 different carriers.

I rate carriers in five categories, with a star rating from 1-5, with 5 stars being the best. I then calculate the overall star rating using the five categories:

1. Value for money: I compare carriers based on price, features, benefits, and promotions. It's not just about the lowest price but getting the most bang for your buck.
2. Coverage: I look at network 5G and 4G LTE coverage across the US. I use coverage maps to determine service availability and data speeds in urban, suburban, and rural locations.
3. Customer experience: I take into account items such as current user experience, website and app usability, ease of switching, and customer service in terms of availability, channels, and satisfaction ratings.
4. Transparency: I assess whether carrier pricing is clear and straightforward. I examine the fine print to check for hidden fees, confusing terms or conditions, and misleading offers to ensure upfront, honest prices and advertising.
5. Range of choice: I evaluate the diversity of plan options to determine if they fit the individual needs of all customers.

Read more about our carrier ratings methodology and our editorial process.

I regularly update the content so that we're always recommending the latest and best value plans and do my best to ensure the information is accurate.

https://www.census.gov/library/publications/2023/demo/p60-280.html