Telephone companies, especially long distance providers, are always trying different marketing and pricing schemes. Take advantage of the tarriffs and rates in currently in effect. You can always re-evaluate later if rates change. Usual speeds are now 9.6Kbps to 28.8Kbps. Unfortunately, it is the only economical way to reach some sites in rural areas.
Speeds are usually the same as dial-up, but the connection is always there.
For long-distance circuits, other methods may be more cost effective, even when used at low speeds. This is the current work horse of data communications. A digital circuit between the two sites is leased from the telephone company. Higher speeds than the modem method are available, but often at higher costs. Usually offered at 56Kbps through 1.544 Mbps.