There are many providers where you can get a cell phone plan. Traditionally many big named companies like AT&T and Verizon dominated the market. Its convenient as they have many brink and mortar stores you can walk in and get a new phone or if your having issues they have support as well. I used providers like this for many years. While in my experience the phone service was really good, the customer service was less than desirable and the price you pay for a phone plan is really high. It's not uncommon to need to pay $60 - $130 per month, per phone, on one of these major providers. Thankfully, today there are other options.
In recent years many different alternative mobile providers have come into the market. Sometimes they are referred to as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO). Mobile Virtual Network Operator's do not own their own wireless infrastructure; instead, they lease network access from major carriers to provide mobile services to their customers, usually at more competitive prices. Some examples of these would be Mint Mobile, Visible Wireless, and US Mobile.
I've been using these alternative mobile providers for the past 5 years or so and I recommend giving one a try to see if it works for you. Its pretty common with these providers to pay $10-$40 per month, per phone, with much better customer service, and have just as good phone service.
I'm currently using and recommend US Mobile. They make it really easy to get setup and their customer service is top notch! They are a super carrier which means they offer 3 different networks, Light Speed (T-Mobile), Warp (Verizon), and Dark Star (AT&T). You can use whichever you want. And I love the fact, that you can switch between these networks. So if you're going on a trip, or someplace with limited coverage, you can switch to another network, if needed, on your US Mobile plan.
If you want give US Mobile a try use this link and receive a 30 day free trial plus a $25 account credit.