YouTube TV carries PBS in most US markets, but not all PBS stations

YouTube TV includes PBS in its base package across most of the United States. However, coverage is not uniform — some smaller markets and certain regional PBS stations may not be available depending on your location. The main PBS channel (PBS) is available in the majority of YouTube TV markets, and many markets also carry PBS Kids and PBS WORLD as separate channels.

Your access depends on your zip code. When you sign up for YouTube TV, the service shows you which channels are available in your area before you commit. If PBS matters to you, check the channel list for your specific location during setup to confirm it is included.

Key Takeaways

  • PBS is included in YouTube TV's base package in most US markets, with no additional fee required.
  • Availability varies by location, so you should verify PBS is offered in your area before subscribing.
  • YouTube TV typically carries the main PBS channel, and many markets also include PBS Kids and PBS WORLD.
  • You can watch PBS content on demand through the YouTube TV app on phones, tablets, computers, and connected TV devices.

How to check if PBS is available in your area

YouTube TV's website lets you see your local channel lineup before you subscribe. Go to the YouTube TV homepage, enter your zip code in the channel availability tool, and scroll through the results. The tool shows you exactly which PBS channels (if any) are offered where you live.

If PBS does not appear in your area's lineup, it means your local PBS station has not made a carriage agreement with YouTube TV. This is uncommon for the main PBS channel but more likely for specialty PBS channels like PBS WORLD or PBS Kids in smaller markets.

What PBS content you can watch on YouTube TV

When PBS is available in your market, you get access to PBS's full broadcast schedule through YouTube TV. This includes news programs like PBS NewsHour, documentaries, educational content, and children's programming. You can watch live broadcasts or use YouTube TV's cloud DVR to record programs and watch them later.

YouTube TV's DVR storage is unlimited, so you can record as much PBS content as you want without worrying about running out of space. Recordings stay in your library for up to nine months before they are automatically deleted.

PBS streaming outside of YouTube TV

Even if PBS is not available through YouTube TV in your area, you can still watch PBS content through the PBS app or PBS.org. The PBS app and website offer free streaming of many PBS programs, though some content requires you to sign in with a cable or streaming service login. If you have YouTube TV, you can use your YouTube TV credentials to unlock additional PBS content in the PBS app.

PBS also offers PBS Passport, a membership program that gives you early access to new episodes and exclusive content. Passport is separate from YouTube TV and requires a donation to your local PBS station.

YouTube TV's channel lineup and PBS alternatives

YouTube TV's base package costs $72.99 per month and includes over 100 channels. PBS is part of this base package where available — there is no separate tier or add-on fee to get PBS. If you are comparing YouTube TV to other streaming services, keep in mind that Hulu with Live TV, Sling TV, and FuboTV also carry PBS in many markets, though availability and pricing differ.

The main difference between these services is their overall channel selection and price. YouTube TV tends to have broader local channel coverage than some competitors, but you should check your specific area's lineup for whichever service you are considering.

Recording PBS programs on YouTube TV

YouTube TV's cloud DVR makes it straightforward to record PBS shows. When you are watching PBS live or browsing the guide, you can select a program and choose to record it. The recording saves to your library automatically, and you can watch it anytime within nine months.

You can also set up series recordings for PBS shows you watch regularly. If you record a series, YouTube TV will automatically record new episodes as they air, so you never miss an episode. This works the same way whether you are recording PBS or any other channel on YouTube TV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PBS free on YouTube TV or do I need to pay extra?

PBS is included in YouTube TV's base package at no additional cost where it is available in your area. You do not pay extra to watch PBS channels — they are part of your regular YouTube TV subscription.

Can I watch PBS on YouTube TV if I do not have cable?

Yes. YouTube TV is a streaming service that does not require cable. You only need an internet connection and a YouTube TV subscription to watch PBS and other channels.

What if PBS is not available in my YouTube TV area?

You can watch PBS content through the free PBS app or PBS.org. Many PBS programs are available to stream for free, and you can use your YouTube TV login to unlock additional content in the PBS app if you have a YouTube TV subscription.

Can I record PBS shows on YouTube TV?

Yes. YouTube TV includes unlimited cloud DVR storage, so you can record PBS programs and watch them anytime within nine months. You can also set up series recordings to automatically capture new episodes.

Does YouTube TV have PBS Kids?

PBS Kids is available on YouTube TV in many markets, but not all. Check your local channel lineup using YouTube TV's zip code tool to see if PBS Kids is offered in your area.