Internet Penetration 73%: Pew

Internet penetration hit an all-time high in April of 73% or about 147 million adults, up from 66% or 133 million adults in January 2005, according to a survey conducted by the Pew Internet and American Life Project.

Also, the share of Americans who say they have broadband access at home has risen dramatically, reaching 42% or about 84 million in April compared to 29% or 59 million in January 2005, Pew Internet reported.

The study also found that the percentage of Americans who said the Internet has greatly improved their ability to shop has doubled to 32% in April from 16% in March 2001.

Not surprisingly, the study found that those with the lowest incomes were less likely to be online.

Fifty three percent of those living in households with incomes of less than $30,000 annually go online compared to 80% of those with household incomes of between $30,000 and $50,000 per year.

Also, 86% of adults living in households earning between $50,000 and $75,000 go online, and 91% of adults living in households making more than $75,000 go online, according to the survey.

Education is also a good indicator of Internet use. While 40% of adults who have less than a high school education go online, 64% of adults with a high school education do so, according to the report. Also, 84% of adults with at least some college education and 91% of adults with college degrees go online, according to Pew Internet.

The survey was the result of phone calls made between November and January, according to Pew Internet. The most recent results were based on calls to 4,001 adults from Feb. 15 to April 6.