2026 E-Insights Report

Black-White Digital Access Gap

  • The Black–White digital access gap in Tampa Bay has remained relatively stable over the past decade, fluctuating between 1.12 million and 1.38 million households. In 2024, Tampa Bay recorded a gap of 1.16 million, placing it in the middle range among comparison MSAs indicating that racial disparities in internet access persist despite gradual improvements since 2021.
  • Atlanta, Miami, Houston, Dallas, and Phoenix historically show the largest digital access gaps, each exceeding 1.5–3 million households in earlier years. While these MSAs experienced sharp improvements after 2020, they continue to rank among the highest gaps in 2024, signaling enduring inequities in broadband availability and device access. In contrast, Jacksonville, Raleigh–Durham, and San Antonio consistently have the smallest digital access gaps, often under $700,000 households, making them the top-performing MSAs for more equitable digital access across racial groups.
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Trend Over Time

Trend Over Time Line Graph

Competitive Position Trend

Competitive Position Trend Line Graph

The Black–White Digital Access Gap measures the difference in the number of Black and White households with access to a computer and broadband internet. This metric highlights racial disparities in digital inclusion—an essential component for education, employment, healthcare, and modern economic participation. Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS), Tables B28009A and B28009B: Presence and Type of Internet Subscription in Household (White Alone / Black or African American Alone), 2013–2024.