With smartphones in nearly every pocket and internet-based alternatives offering budget-friendly call options, many are asking: Do I really need a landline anymore?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. For some, a traditional home phone service still plays a practical or emotional role. But for others, it’s just another monthly expense that might be easy to eliminate.
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to get rid of your landline, here’s what to consider.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Become a smarter, better informed investor. Subscribe from just $107.88 $24.99, plus get up to 4 Special Issues
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Why some people still keep their landlines
While many households have moved on from traditional landlines, there are still valid reasons why some choose to keep them. One of the most compelling arguments is reliability.
In areas prone to storms, power outages or weak cell signals, a landline connected through copper wiring can continue to function when other options fail. This reliability can be especially important during emergencies when having access to a working phone could make all the difference.
Call quality is another factor. Although smartphones have improved dramatically, some people still experience dropped calls or poor reception, especially indoors or in rural areas. Landlines, by contrast, tend to offer clear and consistent audio quality without the worry of dropped calls.
Safety is also a key concern for some users. When you dial 911 from a landline, for example, emergency services can immediately identify your exact physical address. This might not be the case with a cell phone, particularly if you're in a large apartment complex or a rural location. So, a landline can provide added peace of mind for families with children, seniors or those with health concerns.
But there’s also a comfort factor for some people who prefer the simplicity and familiarity of a home phone rather than a smartphone.
Why more people are cutting the cord
Despite these advantages, more and more households are deciding that their landline just isn’t worth the cost or hassle anymore. Traditional landline service can cost anywhere from $30 to $50 per month, even more if it’s part of a bundled package with cable and internet.
In many households, everyone already owns a cell phone with unlimited talk and text as well. That makes a landline feel like a backup to a backup.
Cell phones allow you to make and receive calls from virtually anywhere, whether you're traveling, running errands or relaxing in the backyard. You’re no longer tethered to a cord or forced to screen calls through an answering machine.
Technology has also opened up even more alternatives. Consider that VoIP services like Ooma and Google Voice offer many of the same benefits of a landline, such as a dedicated number and voicemail, and without the high monthly fees.
Speakers with voice-calling capabilities are additionally giving people ways to stay connected without needing a traditional home phone setup.
How to decide what’s right for you
Before you call your provider and cancel your home phone, take a moment to reflect on your actual needs.
Ask yourself:
- Do I actually use my landline, or am I just keeping it out of habit?
- Is it bundled with my internet or cable package and will canceling it raise my overall bill?
- Do I live in an area with spotty cell coverage?
- Are there devices in my home that rely on a landline connection?
If you're still unsure, track your landline usage for a few weeks and compare it to your mobile usage. The answer might become clear pretty quickly.
Alternatives to traditional home phones
If you do decide to make the switch, you won’t be without options.
Cell phones: Most people already have one and they’re increasingly affordable. For older adults looking for low-cost plans, T-Mobile’s 55+ Plans offer great value with unlimited talk, text and data. You might even qualify for a free iPhone when switching to a new plan.
VoIP services: If you still want a “home phone” setup with a base and handset, internet-based options like Ooma or MagicJack can offer that experience often at a much lower price. Many come with free long-distance calling and extra features like voicemail-to-email.
Smart devices: Voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home now allow you to make calls with just a voice command. For tech-savvy users this can be a seamless replacement for a traditional phone.
What to know before you cancel
If you’re ready to cut the cord, keep these steps in mind:
- Check your bundle: If your phone is part of a package deal, canceling could unexpectedly increase your internet bill. Call your provider to confirm.
- Port your number: Want to keep your longtime number? You can often transfer it to a mobile or VoIP provider.
- Update emergency contacts: Be sure your loved ones, doctor’s office and security system provider (if applicable) have your mobile number on file.
- Test drive it: Try relying on your cell phone for a month before canceling your landline to make sure you don’t miss it.
The question isn’t whether everyone should cancel their landline, it’s whether you should. For many, getting rid of a landline can cut costs without cutting communication. For others, especially those in rural areas or with medical needs, keeping a home phone might still make sense.
Either way, evaluating your current usage and exploring alternatives is a smart move.
Related Content:
-
December Fed Meeting: Live Updates and CommentaryThe December Fed meeting is one of the last key economic events of 2025, with Wall Street closely watching what Chair Powell & Co. will do about interest rates.
-
This Is Why Investors Shouldn't Romanticize BitcoinInvestors should treat bitcoin as the high-risk asset it is. A look at the data indicates a small portfolio allocation for most investors would be the safest.
-
I'm a Federal Benefits Pro: I Answer These 2 Questions a LotMany federal employees ask about rolling a TSP into an IRA and parsing options for survivor benefits, both especially critical topics.
-
Smart Money Moves Savers Should Make in 2026These steps will get you on the road to achieving your 2026 savings goals.
-
How Much Would a $50,000 HELOC Cost Per Month?Thinking about tapping your home’s equity? Here’s what a $50,000 HELOC might cost you each month based on current rates.
-
My First $1 Million: Self-Employed Trader, 50, San FranciscoEver wonder how someone who's made a million dollars or more did it? Kiplinger's My First $1 Million series uncovers the answers.
-
Waiting for Retirement to Give to Charity? Here Are 3 Reasons to Do It Now, From a Financial PlannerYou could wait until retirement, but making charitable giving part of your financial plan now could be far more beneficial for you and the causes you support.
-
Are You Ghosting Your Finances? What to Do About Your Money StressAvoidance can make things worse. You can change your habits by starting small, talking with a family member or friend and being consistent and persistent.
-
Your End of Year Insurance Coverage Review ChecklistStop paying for insurance you don't need and close coverage gaps you didn't know about with this year-end insurance review.
-
4 Smart Ways Retirees Can Give More to Charity, From a Financial AdviserFor retirees, tax efficiency and charitable giving should go hand in hand. After all, why not maximize your gifts and minimize the amount that goes to the IRS?
-
I'm an Insurance Pro: If You Do One Boring Task Before the End of the Year, Make It This One (It Could Save You Thousands)Who wants to check insurance policies when there's fun to be had? Still, making sure everything is up to date (coverage and deductibles) can save you a ton.
