Yes, unfortunately the cable companies in most places still enjoy monopoly rights granted by the local public utility commissions. The old idea was that they were so-called "natural" monopolies and thus it made sense for there to be just one provider rather than having multiple companies offering the same service. Long distance phone service through a home landline was the same way for a long time, but it finally became competitive so that you are free to use any long distance provider you want. That is still not the case, unfortunately, for internet access.

There are many companies around the country, some being very large and serving multiple areas, but in most local areas they are still monopolies. It's a crazy system that needs to be changed and will eventually, but it'll take a while for the rules to be changed. Probably LOTS of payoffs going to politicians to keep it from happening though! :-)

Carl