Phone bills keep rising—but this $45 plan hasn’t changed since 2009

• Straight Talk Wireless is a no-contract provider that operates on Verizon's network.
• The Silver Unlimited plan offers unlimited talk, text, and data for $45 per month.
• Straight Talk plans are sold exclusively at Walmart and on the company's website.
• Customers can keep their current phone and number if it is compatible with the service.

In 2009, the national average for gas was about $2.40 a gallon, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Today, it’s climbed past $4. And it’s not just gas—groceries, fast food and even streaming subscriptions seem to get more expensive every year.

That’s why one price caught me off guard: a $45 phone plan that hasn’t budged in more than a decade from one of USA TODAY's most trusted brands of 2026.

While my monthly bills have steadily increased since 2009, Straight Talk Wireless says it has kept the price of its Silver Unlimited Plan the same—something that feels almost unheard of right now.

The no-contract plan includes unlimited talk, text and data on Verizon’s network for $45 a month. No surprise fees, no annual price hikes—just a flat monthly cost in a time when many carriers keep adding new charges and complicated perks.

At a moment when predictability is hard to find, a straight-forward phone bill stands out.

Here’s what to know about Straight Talk Wireless and its Silver Unlimited Plan:

Why hasn’t this $45 phone plan increased in price since 2009?

Straight Talk Wireless keeps its pricing simple and consistent by offering prepaid, no-contract plans without many of the extra perks or bundled extras that drive up costs at traditional carriers. That streamlined approach helps keep monthly prices more stable over time.

Get the Silver Unlimited Plan with unlimited talk, text+ data for $45/month

The Silver Unlimited plan comes with unlimited talk, text + data, 5G connectivity, 10GB hotspot data and international calling and texting to Mexico and Canada. Plus, the price hasn't changed since 2009! Get started at Straight Talk today!

What is Straight Talk Wireless?

Straight Talk Wireless is a no-contract wireless provider that runs on Verizon's network. It is sold exclusively through Walmart and StraightTalk.com, so you can handle your wireless bill on a normal grocery run. The brand focuses on simple pricing, unlimited plans and family savings with no hidden fees or long-term commitments.

Does Straight Talk use Verizon’s network?

Yes, Straight Talk operates on Verizon's network, which means you get access to widespread coverage without signing a traditional contract.

How much do Straight Talk Wireless plans cost?

Straight Talk offers month-to-month phone plans, including some with a Walmart+ membership. Here's a look at their options:

• Bronze: $35 per month for one line with 10GB of high-speed data
• Silver Unlimited: $45 per month with unlimited talk, text and data
• Gold Unlimited: $55 per month with Walmart+ included
• Platinum Unlimited: $65 per month with Walmart+, device protection and international roaming perks

Who should consider a no-contract phone plan like this?

This type of plan can be a good fit for budget-conscious users, people who want to avoid long-term commitments, or anyone tired of frequent price hikes on traditional phone plans.

Can you keep your current phone and number?

In most cases, yes. Straight Talk's BYOP (bring your own phone) option allows you to bring your own compatible phone and transfer your existing number. You can bring an unlocked phone that's compatible with Verizon's service and as long as your current service is still active, your current phone number can be carried over.

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