US wireless data usage surged to record 100 trillion MB in 2023

Americans consumed more than 100 trillion megabytes of wireless data in 2023, a 36% rise from the previous year and the largest single-year increase, according to a report from wireless industry association CTIA.

The surge in usage—an increase of 26 trillion MB over 2022—is attributed to the growing adoption of 5G devices and fixed wireless access (FWA) broadband services.

The total number of wireless connections in the US rose to 558 million, representing a 6% growth over 2022. Notably, 40% of wireless connections were 5G-enabled, covering over 330 million US residents.

Additionally, nearly 40% of all wireless devices were connected to 5G, a 34% increase from 2022.

CTIA highlighted that the sector attracted $30 billion in investment in 2023, with total spending on spectrum auctions surpassing $233 billion.

However, the association emphasized the need for Congress to restore the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) auction authority to ensure access to mid-band spectrum and meet the growing demand for wireless services.

By the end of 2023, the US had 432,469 active cell sites, a 24% increase since 2018, thanks to siting reforms.

The cost per megabyte of wireless data has dropped by 50% since 2020.

CTIA's annual survey has tracked the US wireless sector since 1985.