Mashori, this is exactly the sort of question the
Superguide is meant to help guide on (it's not just cellphones, honest!)...
read this post so you can go into ISP shopping informed, prepared, and aware of a few lesser known options.
Now, regarding some of the other suggestions, internet sharing is not only a violation of the terms of service contract with nearly every single consumer ISP, there's further legal and security risks involved and should only be considered if a
great deal of trust can be had with
all parties involved. Just because
some people do it doesn't mean it's a
good idea, even if they blog about how great an idea it really should be.
Freedompop's not exactly worth considering either for the money. Wired network connections will always be more robust, usable, reliable and cheaper. The only reason why Freedompop isn't more expensive as a wireless provider is because they datamine the crap out of you and sell your marketing information for a reduction on the end cost. Some people think it's worth doing, and if you're one of them? More power to you, but at least be aware of what you're getting into before doing so.
Always read the terms and conditions with any provider before signing up.Given you've got Cox in the area, that might be the best route for the money. One of the lesser nightmare inducing providers, too... it's who we have, and of all the broadband ISPs I've dealt with over the years, I can honestly say I've had far worse (Comcast, AT&T, Rogers, SWBell).