Cell Site Insights: January 2026 Market Update
Are your cell tower rents safe in 2026? The wireless landscape shifted dramatically this month. From major carrier defaults to massive technology transitions, the "Cell Site Insights" podcast by Cell Site Appraiser (CSA) breaks down the top stories affecting landlords right now. At CSA, we believe knowledge is power—and when you know more, you get more.
Here is your executive summary of the critical updates from January 2026 that every property owner needs to know.
1. The DISH Wireless Collapse
The biggest news of the month is Crown Castle’s termination of its agreement with DISH Wireless following a $3.5 billion payment default. With DISH effectively exiting the mobile network business and selling its spectrum to AT&T and SpaceX, the U.S. market has shrunk from four major carriers to three.
Landlord Impact: If DISH is on your tower, expect payment uncertainty. More importantly, the opportunity for a "fourth tenant" on your site has vanished, reducing future colocation revenue potential.
2. T-Mobile Phases Out 4G LTE
As of January 1, 2026, T-Mobile has begun retiring its 4G LTE network to focus on 5G Standalone (5G SA) technology.
Landlord Impact: This transition requires equipment upgrades. If T-Mobile contacts you to modify antennas, this is a prime opportunity to negotiate supplemental lease revenue. However, towers that cannot support 5G equipment may face decommissioning.
3. Regulatory Risks: Verizon’s $7.7M Settlement
Verizon agreed to pay $7.7 million to settle environmental violations in California regarding hazardous material storage (batteries and fuel).
Landlord Impact: Regulators are watching. If your site is in California, ensure your lease holds the carrier fully responsible for environmental compliance to avoid liability falling on you.
4. Upcoming Cash Flow Opportunities: FCC Auction 113
The FCC is moving forward with the "Upper C-Band" spectrum auction, with bidding opening in June 2026.
Landlord Impact: Carriers will need to deploy new antennas rapidly in late 2026 and 2027 to use this spectrum. Expect lease amendment requests soon—do not sign them without negotiating for an increase in rent.
5. 2026 Lease Rate Trends
The market is bifurcating. While offers for new ground leases have softened to the $500–$900/month range, renewal rates for existing sites remain strong ($1,000–$6,000/month).
Landlord Impact: Do not let tower companies use "new market rates" to lower your renewal price. Your existing site is proven infrastructure. Also, fight for CPI-based escalators rather than the industry-standard flat 2%, especially in this economic climate.
Action Plan for Landlords
The market is challenging, but profitable for those who are prepared.
Audit Your Lease: Know your termination notice periods (aim for 180+ days) and renewal dates.
Wait for the "Ask": When carriers come calling for C-Band upgrades or 5G modifications, that is your leverage point to fix bad lease terms and increase rent.
Get Expert Help: Since 2017, CSA has secured over $10 million in value for landlords. Tower companies have experts working for them—you should too.
Need a lease review? Visit cellsiteappraiser.com or call 213-986-7620. We work exclusively for landlords to protect your property rights and maximize value.