Find the Best Cable Companies and Satellite TV Providers in Bakersfield, CA

Choosing a cable company or satellite TV provider in Bakersfield

Watching television or movies is a popular leisure activity for many Bakersfield residents, but choosing among the options is difficult. If you have favorite shows on cable television or you watch a lot of sports, make sure the TV provider carries the channels and teams you like to watch. Channel availability and cable TV packages vary between providers.

Types of cable and satellite TV

• Basic cable packages include national and local broadcast channels. These budget packages typically offer the same channels you would receive by using an antenna.
• Extended basic packages include some of the most popular nonbroadcast channels and give you access to additional shows and movies.
• Premium channel packages include network channels, most paid channels and additional movie channels. These packages are typically customizable to include more movie and specialty channels for an additional cost.

The Federal Communications Commission provides basic information for consumers researching cable television rates. California law regulates cable television contracts and protects certain subscriber rights, and Kern County Cable Television Administration oversees cable providers in unincorporated areas of the county.

Cable vs. satellite TV

Cable companies and satellite TV providers offer many of the same channels and features — the main difference is how the company provides service to your home. Because of a lack of cable providers in some parts of Kern County and limited choices in the city itself, satellite TV in Bakersfield is a popular option, and it may be the only option for those who live in rural areas outside Bakersfield.

Cable companies in Bakersfield are increasing access to fiber optic networks, especially in surrounding areas. Mountainous areas of the county pose a challenge for cable TV providers. A satellite dish receives television signals wirelessly, so it is available in geographic areas that don’t have the infrastructure for cable television.

Bakersfield is sunny and clear most of the year, so weather doesn’t typically affect signal for satellite dishes. Fiber optic cables are rarely affected by weather and provide fast, reliable service.

Alternatives to cable and satellite TV

Many Bakersfield residents are opting for internet-based television packages such as YouTube TV, Sling, Hulu and DIRECTV’s DIRECTVNOW service. These services provide television service to compatible devices using an app — unlike satellite and cable TV, you need a smart TV or device to access the service. The services are also available on smartphones, tablets and laptops.

These internet-based television services typically provide several tiers of programming at different price points. Generally, these services offer month-to-month contracts instead of requiring a long-term commitment.

Some people in Bakersfield have opted out of live television entirely and use a variety of on-demand internet television options, including Netflix and HBO Now.

How much does cable and satellite TV cost in Bakersfield?

Most cable and satellite TV customers pay between $85 and $100 for service. Basic cable is generally much cheaper — usually around $20 to $25 per month.

Satellite TV providers DIRECTV and DISH are competitors in Bakersfield. DIRECTV starts at $35 per month for 155+ channels and DISH starts at $59.99 for 120 channels. AT&T owns DIRECTV and offers bundled cable and internet packages. DISH also provides internet.

Most TV providers require service contracts, typically 12 or 24 months. Look at the fine print in your contract — many companies offer two-year contracts with price hikes that kick in during the second year. Ask the company before signing up for service, and make sure the price is locked in with your contract. Many companies offer phone, cable and internet packages that can save money if you bundle services.

Check to see if equipment rental is an additional expense or provided for free. Ask about installation fees, and try to negotiate for free installation if it’s not already included with your subscription. Check your contract or ask about activation and cancellation fees as well.