Best Cable TV For Seniors

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Best mobile app
  • Largest cable provider in the U.S.
  • Watch on the go with the Xfinity app
  • Offers contract and contract-free plans
Best streaming packages
  • Satellite and streaming packages
  • Price guaranteed for two years
  • No contracts for streaming packages
Call for best price: Call to Order: 866-306-2177
Best budget-friendly option
  • Affordable monthly prices
  • No long-term contracts
  • Available in 42 states
Call for best price: Call to Order: 855-933-3525
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Cable for Seniors: Key Takeaways

  • Whether you’re a movie buff, sports lover, or news fanatic, there are cable TV packages for every lifestyle and preference.
  • We’ve researched the industry’s leading TV providers and narrowed it down to our picks for the best cable TV plans for seniors.
  • It’s important to make sure you know what you want in a cable TV package before signing on the dotted line. Our guide to cable TV for seniors offers tips and tricks to help you choose the right plan for you and get the best deal.

Whether you want to watch movies with the family, catch all the big games, or stay up to date on the news, there’s a cable TV provider to fit your needs. We’ve researched the best cable for seniors to help you find the right one for your lifestyle and snag the best deals. Read the breakdown below.

Did You Know?

Did You Know? To save money, consider bundling your cable TV with an internet plan. Read our guide to the best internet plans for seniors.

  • 1. Xfinity - Best Mobile App

    Xfinity’s cable TV packages made our list for their large selection of channels and the Xfinity Stream app that allows subscribers to download and watch TV anywhere. If you’re like most seniors, you probably use a phone or tablet daily. In fact, 44 percent of adults ages 65 and older own a tablet and 61 percent own a smartphone.1 Thanks to the Xfinity Stream app, seniors can watch TV on any of their favorite devices, whether by smartphone, tablet, or laptop. With a pair of headphones, you’ll be able to watch your favorite shows in the waiting room of the doctor’s office or on a road trip. We also like that Xfinity has contract-free packages. You’ll pay a little extra per month if you opt for a package without a contract. So if you’re pretty sure you’ll be keeping Xfinity service for at least a year, we recommend opting for the one-year commitment for better rates.

    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Xfinity Stream app lets you download shows and movies for watching on the go
    • Service agreement options
    • Largest cable provider in the U.S.
    Cons
    • Hidden fees on some packages
    • Monthly Regional Sports Network fees on some cable TV packages
    Package Choice TV+ Popular TV Ultimate TV
    Price $20 per month $70 per month $90 per month
    Channels 10+ 125+ 185+
    Contracts No No No
    Monthly bundle rates starting at $40 with Xfinity internet* $80 with internet* $100 with internet*

    *Price represents monthly price for the first year with multi-product discount. Rates will increase after 12 months. Xfinity will add Regional TV fee and sports package fee where applicable.

  • 2. DIRECTV - Best Streaming Packages

    DIRECTV isn’t your traditional cable TV service, but it still made our cable for seniors list for those who are interested in forgoing conventional cable television and want to stream their favorite shows over an internet connection. DIRECTV offers satellite and streaming packages, starting at $64.99 per month with unlimited Cloud DVR storage to record your favorite programs, premium channels like HBO Max, Cinemax, SHOWTIME, and STARZ, for movie-loving seniors, and regional sports. Keep in mind that, unlike traditional cable, DIRECTV requires either a strong internet connection or a satellite for optimal viewing. DIRECTV also offers Latino TV satellite and streaming packages.

    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Unlimited Cloud DVR storage
    • Can bundle with AT&T internet in some areas
    • Free premium movie channels for first three months with select packages
    • No annual contracts with streaming packages
    • Price guaranteed for the first two years
    • Stream TV on the go with the DIRECTV app
    • Offers Spanish packages and international TV channel add-ons
    Cons
    • Need high-speed internet to use
    • Prices can be expensive
    • Satellite packages require a 24-month agreement
    • Activation and early termination fees may apply for certain plans
    • Extra ARS and regional sports fees may apply to certain packages
    Package ENTERTAINMENT CHOICE ULTIMATE PREMIER MÁS LATINO ÓPTIMO MÁS MÁS ULTRA LO MÁXIMO
    Price $64.99 per month* $84.99 per month* $109.99 per month* $154.99 per month* $54.99 per month* $74.99 per month* $84.99 per month* $154.99 per month*
    Channels 75+ 105+ 140+ 150+ 55+ 100+ 80+ 105+
    Contracts No No No No No No No No

    *Pricing will increase after 24 months.

  • 3. Spectrum TV - Best Budget-Friendly Option

    Spectrum TV is a result of the merging of three big-name providers: Time Warner Cable, Bright House Networks, and Charter Communications. Spectrum TV made our cable for seniors list thanks to their low prices, widespread availability, selection of HD channels, commitment-free service, and internet bundles to help customers save. If cancellation fees are holding you back from switching cable providers, Spectrum TV will buy out an existing contract up to $500 for new customers who switch. It can compensate for any termination fees you may incur when canceling with your current cable TV provider. We also appreciate that Spectrum TV offers Mi Plan Latino, a TV package that starts as low as $39.99 for 12 months, featuring a total of 145+ Spanish-language and English-language channels, including thousands of on-demand options.

    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Lowest monthly price for most basic cable channels
    • Spanish-language package available
    • Contract buyout program
    • No long-term contract
    • Widespread availability in 42 states
    Cons
    • Limited DVR equipment and features
    • Small selection of packages
    Package Spectrum TV Essentials Spectrum TV Select Signature Spectrum TV Select Plus Mi Plan Latino
    Price $24.99 per month* $59.99 per month* $69.99 per month* $39.99 per month*
    Channels 65+ 150+ 160+ 145+
    Contracts None None None None
    Monthly bundle rates starting at $74.98 with Auto Pay and Spectrum Internet* $109.98 with Auto Pay and Spectrum Internet* N/A $89.98 with Auto pay and Spectrum Internet*
    Equipment rental fees $9.99+ per month $9.99+ per month $9.99+ per month $9.99+ per month

    *Prices will increase after 12 months. Broadcast fee in addition to base price and varies in amount based on location.

  • 4. Cox - Most Customizable Packages

    Whether you want a basic starter package or a large selection of over 250 channels, Cox TV packages offer great variety and customization. Music-loving seniors will enjoy listening to tunes on Cox’s 50 commercial-free music channels, available on all of their TV packages. Customers can customize Cox’s Contour packages with sports and movie packs so you can get any premium channels à la carte; they cost $10 to $15 extra per month. If you want streaming access only, you can add the Wireless 4K Contour Stream Player for $5 per month. (*Requires a Cox internet plan).

    You’ll want to keep in mind that Cox requires a one- or two-year service agreement with some of their plans, meaning you may have to pay cancellation fees if you bow out of service before the contract is over.

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    Pros
    • Customizable packages
    • 30-day-money back guarantee
    • 50 commercial-free music channels
    • Cox internet bundles
    • Provides internet, TV, phone, and smart home security solutions
    • 24/7 technical support
    • Robust channel offerings and add-ons
    • Contour Voice Remote to control the TV with just your voice
    Cons
    • Two-year service agreement
    • Only available in 20 states
    Package Contour TV Starter Contour TV Preferred Contour TV Preferred Plus Contour TV Ultimate
    Price $56 per month* $99 per month* $119 per month* $139 per month
    Channels 75+ 140+ 170+ 250+
    Contracts 2 years 2 years 2 years 2 years
    Monthly bundle rates starting at $108.99 per month with internet** $150.98 per month with internet** N/A $189.99 per month with internet**

    *Price is for the first year. Monthly rate will increase after 12 months.
    **Price is based on the first year with a one-year contract and will vary depending on your location and the internet speed you select.

  • 5. XTREAM: Powered by Mediacom - Best cable and internet bundle

    For seniors who prefer bundling their internet and cable TV services, Xtream from Mediacom delivers the most channels at the lowest price per month. You can choose from three cable TV plans: Local TV, Essential TV, and Variety TV. Their least expensive bundle is $29.99 per month, and you’ll get over 50 channels, internet with speeds up to 100 Mbps, and TiVo. The 100 Mbps speeds are fast enough for you to enjoy browsing the internet, video chatting with grandkids, and watching Netflix in HD. You’ll also receive a voice remote with your Xtream package, which allows you to change channels and search for your favorite shows just by using your voice! The premium package also includes home phone service, perfect for anyone who wants to keep a landline. Just keep in mind: Prices for Mediacom bundles increase after the first year.

    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Great internet and cable TV bundles
    • Affordable starting prices
    • TiVo DVR included
    Cons
    • Limited nationwide availability
    • Cannot purchase stand-alone cable TV; must buy internet too
    • Prices increase after the first year
    Bundle Local TV Essential TV Variety TV
    Price $29.99 per month* $79.99 per month* $99.99 per month*
    Channels 50+ 125+ 170+
    Contracts 1 year 1 year 1 year
    Internet Speeds Up to 100 Mbps Up to 100 Mbps Up to 100 Mbps

    *Price is for the first 12 months and includes a $10 paperless billing discount. Prices will increase each year until the fourth year, when you will be billed the standard rate at that time. Does not include local broadcast or sports package fees.

How We Chose the Best Cable for Seniors

Many companies provide cable TV service in the U.S., but we’ve narrowed it down to the top five we believe are the best choices for seniors. After many hours of research, reading the fine print, and comparing prices, we’ve created a comprehensive list based on three metrics. To qualify for our “Best” list, providers had to possess a stellar reputation and offer seniors the following benefits:

  • Bundling Options: Since an internet connection is a basic necessity nowadays, many cable TV providers offer great discounts when you bundle your cable and internet service together. We made sure to include those bundling options in our overview for each provider.
  • Deals and Discounts: Some cable providers offer discounts for seniors and AARP members, or they have special deals at certain times of the year. To make our “best” list, providers had to offer industry-leading deals and discounts.
  • Channels: Local and national TV channels are essential for getting the latest news. Plus, we made sure these providers offered popular entertainment channels like HGTV, Hallmark, and CBS. Many also offered add-on channels for those who want to boost their cable packages.

How Much Does Cable TV Cost for Seniors?

During our research, we found that older adults can expect to pay just under $50 per month for a basic TV package. So, even if you don’t need 100+ channels, getting access to your local and national news stations is possible without all the bells and whistles. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more robust TV package with extra perks and hundreds of channels to surf, you can expect to pay anywhere from $60 to $90, depending on the package and provider.

No matter what package you select, you’ll want to pay attention to your monthly bill after one year. Most cable TV providers give new customers a special rate for the first few months and then charge their “regular,” higher rate after the first 12 months. Make sure you know what that “regular” rate is and if it still fits into your budget so that there aren’t any unpleasant surprises down the road.

Seven Tips for Saving on Your Cable TV Bill

  1. Inquire about senior discounts: There are so many great things about growing older, like redeeming senior discounts! Many cable TV and internet providers offer discounts for low-income seniors or AARP members. Talk to a customer service representative and ask if these perks are available.
  2. Limited time or free trial offers: Ask about free trials or other offers that cable TV or streaming services may offer. For example, DIRECTV Stream offers a free five-day trial (online only).
  3. Ask about military discounts: To give back to service members and their families, many cable TV providers have special offers for active-duty military and veterans. If you’re a veteran, give customer service a call and ask if they have a special rate for you and your family.
  4. Watch for seasonal deals: If you’re thinking of switching to cable TV, wait until a holiday to get the best rate or take advantage of a limited time offer. Many providers will offer great discounts and perks on Black Friday, the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, and Labor Day that could save you up to a few hundred dollars.
  5. Sign a contract: Even though signing a one- or two-year contract can seem intimidating, it will usually get you a better monthly rate. If you don’t have any plans to switch providers or cancel service in the near future, we think the commitment is worth it.
  6. Bundle your service with the internet: The majority of cable TV companies also provide internet service. If you want to get the best deal on your internet and cable TV, bundling them and getting both services from the same provider can save you money every month.
  7. Build your own plan: Some providers like Xfinity offer “build your own plan” options to save on your monthly bill and customize your entertainment selections.
Quick Tip:

Quick Tip: Want to save on more than just your cable bill? Learn nine simple ways to save on your utility bills.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cable for Seniors

  • How much does cable TV cost?

    The cost of cable TV depends on several factors, including your geographic location, the number of channels you select, and the provider you choose. Generally, most packages cost between $50 and $100 per month.

  • How do I get the best deal on cable TV?

    You can inquire about the best cable TV deals and savings with a customer representative. Alternatively, you can see if the provider offers military, teacher, or senior discounts by visiting their respective websites. You can also bundle your cable TV with internet service or consider a streaming option if you don’t regularly use cable TV.

  • What is the difference between cable TV and streaming TV?

    Cable TV is hardwired, whereas streaming uses the internet to deliver content to the viewer.

  • Is it cheaper to bundle cable TV and internet?

    Most often, yes. Most companies give you a better monthly rate when you bundle your internet and cable TV.

Written By

Morgan Redding

Writer and Editor

Morgan has been writing about the senior living industry for the past five years. In addition to over 400 hours of research on topics like medical alert systems, health insurance, and technology for older adults, she also brings her previous experience working… Learn More About Morgan Redding