Losing cell service can be frustrating in a world where staying connected is the norm. Despite the growing number of cell towers, signal dead zones remain an issue due to distance, obstacles, network congestion, or even bad weather. A new analysis by travel SIM provider Holafly, using data from DeadCellZones.com, highlights the U.S. states and cities with the highest number of complaints about weak or non-existent cell service.
Hawaii tops the list, recording 282 complaints per million residents in the first three quarters of 2024. While connectivity issues frustrate many, some locals prefer it that way. In rural Kauai, residents recently opposed a proposed cell tower over safety concerns, expressing more interest in satellite-based alternatives.
Maine follows with 264 complaints per million residents. York, a town where residents have resisted new cell towers, is exploring a different approach—installing small cells within traffic signals to improve coverage.
Vermont ranks third, with 252 complaints per million residents. In North Turnbridge, where cell service remains unreliable, a free public phone outside a general store still serves as a lifeline for locals.
Connectivity problems aren’t limited to rural areas. Some of the most affected cities include Cincinnati, Boulder, and Green Bay, where high numbers of complaints highlight ongoing signal issues. Cincinnati, despite being home to FirstNet, a dedicated network ensuring first responders remain connected, still struggles with spotty service.
For those dealing with poor reception, minor adjustments to phone settings or using signal boosters may help improve connectivity.
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Hawaii tops the list, recording 282 complaints per million residents in the first three quarters of 2024. While connectivity issues frustrate many, some locals prefer it that way. In rural Kauai, residents recently opposed a proposed cell tower over safety concerns, expressing more interest in satellite-based alternatives.
Maine follows with 264 complaints per million residents. York, a town where residents have resisted new cell towers, is exploring a different approach—installing small cells within traffic signals to improve coverage.
Vermont ranks third, with 252 complaints per million residents. In North Turnbridge, where cell service remains unreliable, a free public phone outside a general store still serves as a lifeline for locals.
Connectivity problems aren’t limited to rural areas. Some of the most affected cities include Cincinnati, Boulder, and Green Bay, where high numbers of complaints highlight ongoing signal issues. Cincinnati, despite being home to FirstNet, a dedicated network ensuring first responders remain connected, still struggles with spotty service.
For those dealing with poor reception, minor adjustments to phone settings or using signal boosters may help improve connectivity.
Read next: Survey Shows What Americans think of Companies, Technology and the Economy
