How Much Does YouTube TV Cost?

YouTube TV costs $72.99 per month for the base plan, which includes over 100 channels, unlimited cloud DVR storage, and the ability to stream on up to three devices simultaneously. New subscribers can get a promotional rate of $50.99 per month for the first three months.

When it comes to exploring streaming options, YouTube TV stands out as a reliable choice for a plethora of live TV channels and on-demand content. However, the pricing information can be a tad bit confusing, especially if you are trying to customize your YouTube TV subscription to include premium network add-ons.

In this article, we are going to answer the most common questions regarding YouTube TV price structure and other aspects of Alphabet’s popular streaming service.

What is YouTube TV?

YouTube TV is a streaming service that allows you to watch live channels, sporting events, and on-demand content. Image source: CNET

YouTube TV is a subscription-based streaming service offered by YouTube, providing live TV from various networks and cable channels over the internet. It offers access to a wide range of channels, including local networks, sports channels, news channels, and entertainment networks. Subscribers can watch live TV, record shows, and access content on multiple devices like smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers. YouTube TV also includes features like cloud DVR storage to record programs and watch them later.

The live TV streaming service is a popular choice among cord-cutters since it allows access to live sports channels and national as well as local channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and others. Alphabet (GOOG), the parent company of YouTube, is in direct competition with other live TV and sports streaming services that are going after users who are looking to cut traditional cable plans, like Hulu Live TV and Apple TV. 

YouTube TV is purely a monthly subscription-based service and offers no annual subscription plans.

How much does YouTube TV cost?

YouTube TV’s Base Plan costs $72.99 per month; however, new subscribers can get it for $50.99 per month for the first three months of their subscription. Then there’s also the Spanish Plan that costs $34.99/month and features Spanish networks exclusively. 

YouTube TV also offers a special plan for football fans, called NFL Sunday Ticket. The sports plan costs $174 for the whole season, or $43.50/month (for the duration of the NFL season). It is worth noting that YouTube TV Base Plan subscribers get a discounted price for the NLF Sunday Ticket – the cost for the NFL Sunday Ticket without the Base Plan is $224/season. Users can also opt for the NFT RedZone for an additional $20 per season.

Base price of YouTube TV: $72.99/month ($50.99/month for the first three months)

The fundamental YouTube TV cost revolves around its Base Plan. As of the latest update, the standard rate for YouTube TV subscriptions stands at a competitive price of $72.99, providing access to a wide array of channels and features. This pricing model remains consistent across different regions, ensuring uniformity in accessibility and affordability.

The Base Plan includes over 100 channels, including ABC, CBS, CNBC, Comedy Central, National Geographic, and many more. It is worth noting that you can use YouTube TV without the Base Plan. However, the Base Plan subscription does allow you to subscribe to add-ons like NFL Sunday Ticket and Spanish Plus at a discounted price.

Additional costs and plan customization

While the base price showcases the primary expense, additional factors contribute to the overall cost of utilizing YouTube TV. These include add-on channel packages, premium network subscriptions, and potential taxes or fees applied in specific regions. 

YouTube TV strives to provide as many options as possible and doesn’t force users to subscribe to hundreds of channels if they are never planning to watch them. You can basically pay only for channels that you are planning to watch. In other words, you don’t need a Base Plan to subscribe to individual networks.

This means that you can, for example, pay only for ESPN and SHOWTIME, but skip every other option. At this point, it’s worth listing networks that you cannot purchase without a YouTube TV Base Plan:

For the full list and instructions on how to select which networks can be purchased independently of the Base Plan, click here.

YouTube TV FAQs

How much is YouTube TV a monthly subscription service?

YouTube costs $72.99 per month for the Base Plan, which includes over 100 channels. It is worth noting that new subscribers pay a discounted rate of $50.99 per month for the first three months.

Is YouTube TV free for the first month?

No, YouTube TV is not free for the first month. However, new subscribers get $22 off for the first three months, paying a promotional rate of $50.99 instead of the full $72.99.

Why do I have to pay for YouTube TV?

YouTube TV is a paid service that offers live TV channels, on-demand content, and DVR features. The subscription fee covers the cost of providing access to these channels and features, as well as the infrastructure required to deliver the content.

Can I watch YouTube TV for free?

YouTube TV typically requires a paid subscription to access its content and features. However, they might offer occasional trial periods or promotional offers that allow new users to try the service for a limited time without charge.

The bottom line 

YouTube TV is a perfect choice for cord-cutters who don’t want to pay for hundreds of programs that they might not even watch. The service allows you to customize your subscription plan thoroughly and pay only for the stuff you watch regularly. However, it is worth noting that a subscription to the Base Plan – which costs $72.99 per month – does unlock certain perks, including unlimited DVR storage and discounted rates on premium networks and products like the NFL Sunday Ticket and the 4K Plus package.