How Much Is Cox Cable TV?

Cox Communications is a leading provider of cable television, internet, and telephone services in the United States, serving millions of customers across 18 states. Its Contour TV service offers a robust selection of channels, on-demand content, and advanced features like DVR and voice-controlled remotes. However, understanding the full cost of Cox Cable TV can be challenging due to varying plan prices, additional fees, and location-based differences. This comprehensive guide breaks down Cox Cable TV pricing, including plan details, add-ons, bundle options, and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). Whether you’re a new customer or considering an upgrade, this article will help you navigate Cox’s pricing structure to find the best plan for your needs and budget.

Overview of Cox Cable TV Plans

Cox offers three primary TV plans under its Contour TV service, each designed for different viewing preferences and budgets. Below is a detailed look at each plan, including channel counts, features, and target audiences.

Contour TV Starter

• Price: Starts at $61.00 per month for 12 months (promotional rate).

• Channels: Over 75 local channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, PBS, and other local networks.

• Features: Includes one premium channel (choice of Max, STARZ, Cinemax, or Paramount+ with SHOWTIME) for the first 12 months. DVR service is available for an additional fee. The Cox Contour app allows streaming on mobile devices and computers.

• Limitations: Does not support additional channel packs or premium add-ons beyond the included premium channel.

• Best For: Viewers who primarily watch local news, sports, and basic entertainment, such as seniors or those on a fixed budget.

Contour TV Preferred

• Price: Starts at $115.00 per month (promotional rate).

• Channels: Over 140 channels, including popular networks like ESPN, HGTV, USA, Disney Junior, and more.

• Features: Offers a broader selection of entertainment, news, and sports channels. Supports add-ons like premium channels and channel packs. DVR service is available, and streaming is included via the Cox Contour app.

• Best For: Moderate viewers who want a mix of local channels and popular cable networks, with the flexibility to customize their package.

Contour TV Ultimate

• Price: Starts at $146.00 per month (promotional rate).

• Channels: Over 250 channels, including premium networks like NFL Network, HBO Max, STARZ, and Cinemax.

• Features: Includes all channels from Preferred, plus additional premium and specialty channels. DVR service is included, with options for advanced recording capabilities. Streaming is available via the Cox Contour app.

• Best For: Heavy viewers who want a comprehensive channel lineup, including premium content for movies, sports, and specialty programming.

Xumo Stream Box (Streaming Option)

• Price: $60.00 one-time charge per box.

• Requirements: Requires Cox Internet with at least 100 Mbps download speed.

• Features: Provides access to Cox’s channel lineup without a traditional cable subscription. Ideal for cord-cutters who prefer streaming on smart TVs or devices.

• Best For: Customers who want to stream Cox TV content without additional monthly equipment fees.

Each plan includes a voice-controlled remote, enhancing ease of use, and access to the Cox Contour app for streaming live TV and On Demand content on smartphones, tablets, and computers. For detailed channel lineups, visit Cox’s Channel Lineup and enter your address.

Pricing Details

Cox’s pricing structure includes promotional rates for the first 12 months, after which regular rates apply. Below are key details to understand the cost structure:

• Promotional Rates: The listed prices ($61 for Starter, $115 for Preferred, $146 for Ultimate) are promotional for the first year. Regular rates, which can be higher, apply afterward. Check www.cox.com/pricing for current regular rates.

• Bundle Discounts: Bundling TV with Cox Internet, Voice (home phone), or Homelife (security and automation) can significantly reduce your monthly bill. For example, combining Contour TV Preferred with a 500 Mbps internet plan might offer a $15-$20 monthly discount compared to standalone services. Explore bundle options at Cox Bundles & Deals.

• No Contract for TV: Cox does not require an annual contract for TV service alone, offering flexibility to cancel with 24 hours’ notice via chat, phone (1-866-867-7644), or a Cox retail store. However, bundling with internet may involve a term agreement with early termination fees (ETFs) for the internet portion.

• Promotions: Cox frequently offers promotions, such as free premium channels for the first year or discounted rates for new customers. These can lower initial costs but may not apply after the promotional period.

• Credit Check: A credit check or deposit may be required for new customers, depending on your account status.

Additional Costs and Fees

Beyond the base plan prices, several additional costs can impact your monthly bill:

• Equipment Rental: Additional TV boxes for multiple TVs cost approximately $8.50 per month each. The first Contour Box or CableCARD is typically included in the plan price, but additional boxes add up. Using the Cox Contour app on smart TVs can help avoid these fees.

• Broadcast and Regional Sports Surcharges: These fees, which cover broadcasting rights, vary by location and can range from $5 to $15 per month.

• DVR Service: Basic DVR functionality is included in some plans (e.g., Ultimate), but advanced features, such as recording multiple shows or storing up to 1,000 hours, cost $10-$30 per month, depending on the plan.

• Installation Fees: Professional installation may incur a one-time fee, though self-installation kits are often available at no or low cost.

• Taxes and Surcharges: Expect additional taxes, franchise fees, and other surcharges, which can add 10-20% to your bill, depending on your location.

For example, a Contour TV Starter plan with one additional TV box and basic DVR could cost around $80-$90 per month after fees, compared to the base $61.

Customization and Add-ons

Cox’s Contour TV service allows significant customization, particularly for Preferred and Ultimate plans:

• Premium Channels: Add channels like Max, STARZ, Cinemax, or Paramount+ with SHOWTIME for $10-$15 per month each. These are not available with the Starter plan.

• Channel Packs: Choose from themed packs for sports (e.g., NFL, NBA), movies, entertainment, news, or Latino programming. Costs vary based on the pack.

• DVR Options:

  • Basic DVR: Records 2 shows simultaneously with 250 hours of storage ($10/month).

  • Advanced DVR: Records up to 24 shows with 1,000 hours of storage ($20-$30/month).

• International Channels: Add channels like TFC, TV JAPAN, or TV5MONDE for international programming, with costs varying by channel.

Customization can significantly increase your bill, so it’s important to balance desired features with your budget. For example, adding two premium channels and advanced DVR to a Preferred plan could raise the monthly cost to $150-$160.

Availability and Location-Based Pricing

Cox services are available in 18 states, including Arizona, California, Florida, and others. Pricing and channel availability vary by location due to differences in local taxes, fees, and channel lineups. To get accurate pricing:

• Visit Cox’s TV page and enter your address.

• Check the channel lineup for your area.

This ensures you see the exact costs and channels available at your address.

Customer Experiences and Reviews

Cox Cable TV has received generally positive feedback, tying for second place in overall satisfaction in the 2025 TV Customer Satisfaction Survey conducted by CableTV.com. Customers appreciate the wide channel selection, reliable service, and features like the voice-controlled remote and Contour app. However, some note that pricing can be high after promotional periods, and additional fees can add up. For example, a Reddit user mentioned frustration with unexpected surcharges, while others praised Cox’s channel variety compared to competitors. Reviewing your bill and understanding all costs upfront can help manage expectations.

Comparing Cox with Other Providers

When compared to other cable TV providers like Xfinity (Comcast) and Spectrum, Cox offers competitive features but has some drawbacks:

• Channel Count: Cox’s Ultimate plan (250+ channels) is comparable to Xfinity’s Ultimate TV (185+ channels) and Spectrum’s Select Signature (150+ channels).

• Pricing: Cox’s Starter plan ($61/month) is slightly more expensive than Spectrum’s TV Select ($59.99/month) but cheaper than Xfinity’s X1 Starter ($65/month). However, Cox’s fees can make it pricier overall.

• Customer Service: Cox’s customer service receives mixed reviews, similar to Xfinity, while Spectrum often ranks slightly higher in customer satisfaction.

Cox’s bundle discounts and no-contract TV option make it appealing, especially in areas where it’s the primary cable provider. For a detailed comparison, check CableTV.com’s provider reviews.

Choosing the Right Plan for You

Selecting the right Cox TV plan depends on your viewing habits and budget:

• Basic Viewers: Contour TV Starter ($61/month) is ideal for those who mainly watch local channels like news and sports.

• Moderate Viewers: Contour TV Preferred ($115/month) suits those wanting a mix of local and popular cable networks, with room for customization.

• Heavy Viewers: Contour TV Ultimate ($146/month) is best for those seeking premium channels and a comprehensive lineup.

• Streamers: The Xumo Stream Box ($60 one-time fee) is perfect for cord-cutters with a fast internet connection (100 Mbps+).

Consider your household’s viewing needs, the number of TVs, and whether you want DVR or premium channels. Bundling with internet can also lower costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the cheapest Cox TV plan?

   • The Contour TV Starter plan starts at $61 per month for 12 months, offering over 75 local channels.

2. How much does Cox TV cost per month?

   • Costs range from $61 (Starter) to $146 (Ultimate) per month for the first 12 months. Regular rates apply afterward, and fees like equipment rentals or surcharges may increase the total.

3. Are there any discounts or promotions for Cox TV?

   • Yes, Cox often offers promotions like free premium channels for the first year or discounted bundle rates. Check Cox Bundles & Deals for current offers.

4. Can I bundle Cox TV with internet and phone?

   • Yes, bundling TV with internet, phone, or Homelife services can save $15-$20 per month compared to standalone plans.

5. What are the additional fees associated with Cox TV?

   • Expect equipment rental fees ($8.50/month per extra TV box), broadcast and regional sports surcharges ($5-$15/month), DVR fees ($10-$30/month), and taxes.

6. Does Cox TV require a contract?

   • No, TV service alone does not require a contract. You can cancel with 24 hours’ notice. Bundling with internet may involve a term agreement.

7. Can I add premium channels to my Cox TV plan?

   • Yes, Preferred and Ultimate plans support adding premium channels like Max or STARZ for $10-$15/month each. Starter does not allow add-ons.

8. What is the difference between Contour TV Preferred and Ultimate?

   • Preferred offers 140+ channels with popular networks, while Ultimate provides 250+ channels, including premium and specialty networks.

9. Is Cox TV available in my area?

   • Cox is available in 18 states. Check availability at Cox’s TV page by entering your address.

10. How can I check my local channel lineup?

    • Visit Cox’s Channel Lineup and enter your address to see available channels.

Conclusion

Cox Cable TV offers a range of plans to suit various viewing preferences, from the budget-friendly Contour TV Starter at $61 per month to the premium Contour TV Ultimate at $146 per month. While promotional pricing makes Cox attractive, additional fees like equipment rentals and surcharges can increase costs. Bundling with internet or phone services, exploring promotions, and considering the Xumo Stream Box for streaming can help manage expenses. By understanding Cox’s pricing structure, customization options, and location-based variations, you can choose the plan that best fits your entertainment needs. For the most accurate pricing and availability, visit Cox’s TV page or contact customer service at 1-866-867-7644.