YouTube TV costs $72.99 per month for the base plan

YouTube TV's standard plan runs $72.99 per month and includes live TV from over 100 channels, cloud DVR storage, and the ability to watch on multiple devices at once. The price covers your entire household — you don't pay per person. This is the plan most people choose when they first sign up.

YouTube TV also offers a Premium add-on for $13.99 per month on top of the base plan. This add-on removes ads from YouTube's on-demand video service (not from the live TV channels, which still show ads). The Premium add-on is separate from YouTube TV itself and is optional.

There are no hidden fees, no installation costs, and no equipment to buy. You stream everything through the YouTube TV app on devices you already own — a phone, tablet, computer, or TV with a streaming device. You can cancel anytime without a contract.

Key Takeaways

  • The base YouTube TV plan costs $72.99 per month and includes over 100 live TV channels plus cloud DVR storage.
  • An optional YouTube Premium add-on costs $13.99 per month extra if you want to remove ads from YouTube's on-demand videos.
  • There are no setup fees, equipment charges, or long-term contracts — you pay only the monthly subscription.
  • Your subscription covers your entire household, and you can watch on multiple devices at the same time depending on your plan.
  • The price may vary slightly by region, and YouTube occasionally adjusts pricing, so check the YouTube TV website for your current rate.

What channels and features come with the base plan

The $72.99 monthly plan includes live TV from major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, ESPN, CNN, HGTV, Food Network, and many others. The exact channel list varies slightly by your location, but most subscribers in the United States get over 100 channels. You can see the full list for your zip code on the YouTube TV website before you commit.

Cloud DVR storage is included at no extra cost. You can record shows and movies and keep them for up to nine months. Unlike some cable services, there's no limit on how many programs you record — record as much as you want. You can also fast-forward through recorded content without restrictions.

The base plan lets you create up to six separate user profiles within one household account. Each person gets their own watch history, recommendations, and settings. You can watch on up to three devices at the same time, which means three people in your home can stream different channels simultaneously.

How the YouTube Premium add-on works

YouTube Premium is a separate $13.99 monthly charge on top of your YouTube TV subscription. It removes ads from YouTube's on-demand video library — the videos people upload to YouTube, not the live TV channels. Live TV channels still display ads even with YouTube Premium.

YouTube Premium also includes YouTube Music, which is a music streaming service similar to Spotify. If you already pay for a separate music service, YouTube Premium might replace that cost. The Premium add-on is completely optional; you can use YouTube TV without it.

If you already subscribe to YouTube Premium separately, you don't need to buy it again when you get YouTube TV. Your existing Premium subscription carries over.

Comparing YouTube TV to other streaming services

YouTube TV is a live TV service, which makes it different from on-demand services like Netflix or Disney+. You're paying for access to live channels and the ability to record them, not a library of movies and shows you watch whenever you want. Some people use YouTube TV alongside Netflix or other services depending on what they watch.

Other live TV streaming services include Hulu + Live TV (which costs around $76.99 per month), Sling TV (which starts at $39.99 per month but has fewer channels), and FuboTV (which costs around $79.99 per month). Each service has a different channel lineup and different features, so the best choice depends on which channels and shows matter to you.

YouTube TV does not require a cable box, satellite dish, or technician visit. You read the app and start watching when ready. There's no contract, so if you decide it's not for you, you can stop paying the next month.

How to check your current bill and manage your subscription

Your YouTube TV bill appears on your Google account statement each month on the same date you signed up. If you pay with a credit card, the charge goes to that card. You can view your billing history and payment method in your Google Account settings under "Payments & subscriptions."

To change or cancel your subscription, go to YouTube TV's settings and select "Membership." From there you can pause your subscription for up to three months (useful if you travel or want a temporary break), downgrade to a lower plan if one becomes available, or cancel entirely. Changes take effect at the start of your next billing cycle.

If you share your Google account with family members, they can watch YouTube TV using your subscription. However, only the account holder can change billing settings or cancel the service. If you want to give someone else control over the subscription, you'll need to share your account login or change the account owner.

What happens if YouTube TV raises its price

YouTube TV has raised its price several times since launching. When a price increase happens, YouTube sends an email notification at least 30 days before the new price takes effect. You have the option to cancel before the increase goes into effect if you don't want to pay the higher amount.

Price increases are not automatic across all subscribers on the same day. YouTube typically phases in increases over time, so some people may see a new price before others. Check your email and your Google Account billing page if you're unsure what you're currently paying.

If you've had a promotional rate (like a discounted first month), that promotion ends after the promotional period, and your price moves to the regular rate. YouTube will notify you before this happens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I try YouTube TV before paying?

YouTube TV offers a free trial period, though the length varies. Check the YouTube TV website for the current trial offer in your area, as it changes periodically. During the trial, you get full access to the base plan at no charge. Your payment method is required to start the trial, and you'll be charged the monthly rate when the trial ends unless you cancel beforehand.

Do I need to pay extra for 4K video?

YouTube TV streams in up to 4K resolution on compatible devices, and there is no extra charge for 4K. Your internet speed and the device you're using determine whether you actually get 4K quality. YouTube recommends at least 35 Mbps read speed for 4K streaming.

What if I want to watch YouTube TV on more than three devices at once?

The base plan allows three simultaneous streams. If you need more, YouTube may offer a higher-tier plan in the future, but currently there is no paid upgrade for additional simultaneous streams. You can watch on as many different devices as you want, just not at the exact same time.

Is there a discount if I pay yearly instead of monthly?

YouTube TV does not offer a yearly payment option or a discount for paying multiple months upfront. You pay month to month only. Your subscription renews automatically each month unless you cancel.

Do I still see ads on live TV channels?

Yes. YouTube Premium removes ads from YouTube's on-demand videos, but live TV channels include their own ads that you cannot skip. This is the same as traditional cable — the networks insert commercials into the broadcast, and YouTube TV passes them through to you.