Record-Breaking Fiber Broadband Growth in 2025: Insights from FBA Survey

The Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) has revealed exceptional growth in fiber broadband deployments during 2025, breaking all previous records according to their annual Fiber Deployment Survey conducted by RVA LLC Market Research & Consulting. With 11.8 million homes gaining access to fiber broadband in the United States this past year, the total fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) passings reached an unprecedented 98.3 million. In Canada, the momentum was equally strong, with 14.5 million homes connected, representing nearly 75% of all Canadian households. This swift expansion places fiber broadband well on track to surpass all other technologies as the leading internet delivery method in the U.S. by 2028.

Fiber Expands Across North America

Fiber availability surged to over 60% of U.S. households in 2025, showing how rapidly fiber broadband is reshaping the telecommunications landscape. Despite these milestones, the survey identified untapped opportunities, with 60 million U.S. households still awaiting their first fiber passing. Additionally, 84% of potential second and third passings remain untouched, paving the way for overbuilding and robust competition among providers. This competition is proving beneficial; markets with two fiber providers see adoption rates rise significantly—reaching an impressive 61%, compared to 46.5% for primary providers alone.

The Competitive Advantage of Fiber Technology

Consumers are gravitating toward fiber for its unparalleled performance. Fiber broadband consistently outpaces other technologies in speed, latency, and reliability, as seen in survey-based speed tests. Mike Render, Founder and CEO of RVA, emphasized that fiber’s consumer satisfaction ratings and technological advantages are driving adoption rates higher than ever. “We’re at a major inflection point,” Render stated, underscoring how competition and innovation are solidifying fiber’s position as the preferred broadband technology in the U.S. As more providers enter the marketplace, this momentum is expected to build, further ensuring fiber’s dominance in the coming years.

Future-Ready Fiber Expansion

The demand for fiber broadband extends far beyond residential use, with emerging markets such as data centers, energy grids, small cell towers, and even quantum computing poised to maintain and even increase demand. The burgeoning adoption of fiber for advanced technologies underscores its potential as a long-term growth vehicle. Investments remain steady, supported by both public and private sectors. While challenges like RDOF and BEAD programs pose hurdles, federal incentives—such as the restoration of 100% bonus depreciation in 2026—are predicted to drive a 5-15% increase in FTTH capital expenditures.

Deborah Kish, Vice President of Research and Workforce Development at FBA, highlighted the continued strength of fiber deployment. She noted, “Fiber has become the clear technology of choice for both network operators and consumers… New markets are expanding fiber’s role in our digital economy.” With government policies encouraging broadband expansion and key trends pointing toward sustained growth, fiber broadband is set to remain a cornerstone of the digital age.

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