Ani Petrosyan
Research expert for cybersecurity and cybercrime
Internet usage in the United States - Statistics & Facts
Today, nearly 94 percent of Americans have access to the internet, many of whom could no longer imagine a life without it. Among the largest online markets in the world, the United States ranks third with over 311 million internet users nationwide. As a global hub of technological innovation and home to some of the world’s leading internet companies, the United States has increased its digital population for over two decades.
By 2029, more than 343 million people in the United States will be internet users. Along with the internet expanding its user base, it naturally becomes more powerful. Currently, around half of U.S. internet users find it important to have mobile internet access anywhere at any time. However, with great power comes significant risk, as many U.S. internet users express concerns about online privacy.
Online services usage
Almost all internet users in the United States, 97 percent, used search engines, and google.com was the most used website. In another survey, American internet users also said that the main reason for using the internet was finding information and researching how to do certain things. Today, many offline services are possible online, too. In the fourth quarter of 2023, approximately 44 percent of bank account holders in the United States used online banking services on a PC or laptop.Mobile internet and apps
Over the last few years, the number of mobile internet users in the United States has increased significantly, surpassing 295 million in 2023. Almost half of web traffic in the United States, over 45 percent, originated from mobile devices. The most favorite mobile app among U.S. users is YouTube, with 75 percent usage, followed by Facebook, with 65 percent of audience reach. Meanwhile, the most downloaded app among Android users was TikTok.Social media usage in the United States
Social media usage is among the most popular online activities. The number of social networks users in the United States is projected to reach over 342 million by 2029. Facebook had the highest market share among all social media visits via mobile and tablet devices combined. While using social media sites and apps, U.S. users mostly liked or commented on posts by other users and sent private messages. Social media is usually a place for discussions and the topic most frequently discussed on these platforms is music, followed by discussions about food and drinks.By 2029, more than 343 million people in the United States will be internet users. Along with the internet expanding its user base, it naturally becomes more powerful. Currently, around half of U.S. internet users find it important to have mobile internet access anywhere at any time. However, with great power comes significant risk, as many U.S. internet users express concerns about online privacy.
