Going by a Wednesday report from the Pew Internet and American Life Project, a survey of the number of adult Americans using broadband Internet at home in April 2009 showed a 15 percent increase vis-a-vis the last year figures, with almost 63 percent US adults now having broadband connections at home. Compared to the 2007 figures, the hike is even more substantial at 54 percent!

The Pew study found that while Internet adoption among senior citizens rose 58 percent from 2008; it increased 22 percent in rural Americans; and rose from 43 percent to 46 percent in African American households.

In different income categories, there has been a 40 percent increase in broadband adoption by Americans earning $20,000 or less annually; and a 26 percent spike in broadband adoption for those earning between $20,000 and $30,000 annually.

However, the increase in Internet usage in US homes has, in no way, brought about any drop in charges from the providers. In April, the average monthly price for broadband was $39, compared to a price of $34.50 in May last year.

According to the study, recession and price increase notwithstanding, people would rather cut either cell phone or cable TV service than broadband connection. Over the last year, only 9 percent of Internet users discontinued Internet service, while 22 percent cut cable and mobile phones services each.