One of the main reasons people choose Surfshark VPN is to access streaming content that isn’t available in their region. Netflix US is a prime example — with one of the largest and most diverse content libraries in the world, it offers countless shows and movies you can’t find elsewhere. But to unlock it reliably, you need the right Surfshark servers.
In this guide, we’ll cover which Surfshark servers work best for Netflix US, why performance varies, and tips for getting the smoothest streaming experience possible.
Although Surfshark has 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, not all US servers are equal when it comes to Netflix streaming. The key factors that affect performance include:
Server Location: Physical proximity to Netflix’s main data hubs (usually New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago) can reduce latency.
Server Load: The fewer people on the server, the faster your speeds.
IP Reputation: Netflix constantly blocks VPN IPs; Surfshark rotates IPs, but some servers get blocked more often than others.
By choosing the right US server, you reduce buffering, maintain HD/4K quality, and avoid Netflix’s dreaded proxy error message.
While Surfshark doesn’t publish a “Netflix-optimized” server list, in our tests and from user reports, these locations consistently perform well:
Why it works well: Strong peering connections to Netflix’s East Coast infrastructure; excellent for viewers in Europe and the Eastern US.
Typical performance: 220–300 Mbps with WireGuard.
Bonus: Works well for Hulu, HBO Max, and Disney+ too.
Why it works well: Closest to Netflix servers handling Pacific traffic; great for users in Asia and Oceania.
Typical performance: 180–250 Mbps; stable during peak hours.
Bonus: Ideal for accessing US YouTube TV and Peacock.
Why it works well: Balanced routing between East and West; low congestion rates.
Typical performance: 200–270 Mbps; rarely triggers proxy errors.
Why they work well: Often overlooked by casual users, so they stay less crowded
Typical performance: 180–240 Mbps; great for 1080p and 4K streaming.
Even with a great server, a few extra tweaks can make your connection faster and more stable:
Use WireGuard Protocol
Go to Settings → VPN Settings → Protocol and select WireGuard for maximum speed.
WireGuard’s lower overhead means fewer delays and faster server switching.
Clear Netflix Cache
On iOS/Android, log out of Netflix, clear app cache, and log back in.
On browsers, clear cookies to ensure Netflix detects the new IP.
Try Multiple Servers in the Same City
Surfshark often has several server clusters in big cities like New York and Los Angeles. If one doesn’t work, switch to another in the same location.
Enable Kill Switch
This prevents accidental IP leaks if your VPN disconnects mid-stream.
Contact Surfshark Support
Live chat can give you the latest “working” US server recommendations in seconds.
Netflix recommends 15 Mbps minimum for Ultra HD. All of Surfshark’s top-performing US servers exceed this easily, but if you want consistent 4K quality, aim for servers that give you at least 50–100 Mbps to handle network fluctuations.
Our WireGuard speed tests on the New York and Los Angeles servers showed:
New York: 280 Mbps (wired), 230 Mbps (Wi-Fi)
Los Angeles: 240 Mbps (wired), 200 Mbps (Wi-Fi)
These speeds allow multiple devices in your household to stream in 4K simultaneously.
Surfshark is one of the more reliable VPNs for Netflix US, thanks to its rotating IPs, wide US server coverage, and WireGuard performance. While New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago are the most consistent options, servers in Phoenix and Dallas often deliver excellent results with less congestion.
By pairing the right server with WireGuard, regularly clearing your Netflix cache, and switching servers if you hit a proxy block, you can keep enjoying Netflix US in HD or 4K — no matter where you are in the world.