People like conveniences. Whether that is having a dishwasher or signing up for your own internet service. There are many things available that make life easier with a low cost. Having the internet available whenever you want it is very handy. While some people depend on it there are still others that think it is a luxury because it is possible to get free Wi-Fi in certain locations.
Obviously if you have to use your computer to get online everyday, you will want to have a satellite hookup or some wireless service for example. It is silly to have to go to another location to hop online because you don't have service at home. That would add a lot of time to what is likely an already busy day.
It is more than just the cost of the internet service. You have to factor in transportation cost to and from wherever it is that you need to go. Also consider the time spent going someplace. If you visit a coffee shop then you will likely be spending money on beverages or food when there. When you consider all of the extras it makes more sense to pay for the service as opposed to the alternative.
Can you imagine the hoops you will be jumping through and the extreme unproductively, if you try to follow such a routine in rural or remote regions. Free Wi-Fi will easily loose its luster as a viable acceptable option and out of the question to pursue. If you use the Internet daily for whatever reasons, it really makes no sense not to have the accessibility of a home Internet connection.
It can be hard to understand for people that don't go online what the fuss is all about. For students of all ages there is so much info online that is helpful. For amateur chefs there is instant access to loads of recipes. Anyone that wants to get good deals when shopping can use the internet to find and research items that they need. Just thinking about all that is available online gives you plenty of reasons to have available and easy access at home.