Cox Communications is one of the most well-known names in the cable internet industry. As the largest private broadband company in the nation, Cox Communications has earned its reputation as a reliable internet service provider.
Whether you use the internet to work from home, browse social media, stream your favorite shows, or play games, your home connectivity needs to be fast and reliable. With a variety of internet plans to choose from, Cox is a solid choice for fast, affordable internet.
What does Cox offer?
- Cox Internet
- Cox TV & Streaming
- Cox Homelife
- Cox Home Phone
- Cox Mobile
Along with cable (and some fiber) internet plans, Cox also provides cable TV, home phone, mobile phone, and smart home services. There are also discounted bundles that customers can take advantage of to save money.
Cox: Company Overview
Pros
- Wide availability across the United States
- Includes access to over 4 million Wi-Fi hotspots
- Offers 30-Day Money Back Guarantee
Cons
- Limited upload speeds
- All plans have data caps
Internet Speeds: 100 Mbps to 1000 Mbps
Price Range: $49.99-$99.99 per month
Data Cap: 1.25 TB
Contract Required: No
BBB Rating: A+
With beginnings that trace back nearly 6 decades, Cox Communications is a well-established broadband communications and entertainment company. It is the largest division of Cox Enterprises, a family-owned business that has been operating since 1898.
Cox is currently the biggest private broadband company in the United States, servicing over 7 million homes and businesses across 19 U.S. states. The telecom offers a range of communications and entertainment services, including high-speed internet, TV, mobile phone, home phone, and smart home services. There are also bundling options to save on two or more Cox services.
Among its many services, Cox sells high-speed residential internet. While they do have fiber internet options available in limited regions, Cox's main offering is currently cable internet. The company generally receives positive ratings from satisfied customers.
As one of the best cable internet providers, competitors of Cox include:
Over the last decade, Cox has invested over $15 billion in infrastructure to improve its phone, video, and high-speed internet services. In the next 5 years, Cox has plans to invest an additional $10 billion.
Where Is Cox Available?
Cox is one of the largest cable internet providers in the United States, servicing millions of customers in 19 states. Right now, they operate in a total of 645 service areas, spread across the following U.S. states:
| Arizona | Massachusetts |
| Arkansas | Missouri |
| California | Nebraska |
| Connecticut | Nevada |
| Florida | North Carolina |
| Georgia | Ohio |
| Idaho | Oklahoma |
| Iowa | Rhode Island |
| Kansas | Virginia |
| Louisiana | |
To find which specific services and special offers are available in your area, you can find your location on the Cox Residential page.
Cox Internet
Cox Communications has long been a coaxial cable company providing cable internet and TV services. However, as fiber internet becomes the future of home connectivity, they are beginning to roll out their own fiber network.
Right now, Cox's fiber internet is limited to just a few fiber cities. However, while Cox's main offering remains cable internet, its fiber network is growing. Depending on where you live, internet plans could be cable or fiber.
How fast is Cox broadband internet?
While fiber is capable of reaching multi-gig speeds, Cox cable internet can still reach fast speeds, up to 1 Gig download speed. However, fiber has much faster upload speeds than cable.
Cox Internet Plans
There are 4 different cable internet plans available to serve a range of internet usage demands and budgets. All Cox internet plans have a data cap of 1.25 TB per month.
| Plan Name | Speed (Download/Upload) | Price per Month |
|---|---|---|
| Essential 100 | 100 Mbps / 5 Mbps | $49.99 |
| Preferred 250 | 250 Mbps / 10 Mbps | $49.99 |
| Ultimate 500 | 500 Mbps / 10 Mbps | $69.99 |
| Gigablast | 1000 Mbps / 35 Mbps | $99.99 |
👉 Read the full Cox Internet Review for 2024!
Data Cap
Cox plans include a 1.25 TB data cap. Customers get a one-time courtesy credit for exceeding the cap. After that, extra data costs $10 for 50 GB, with a maximum charge of $100. Unlimited data is available for an additional $40 per month.
Add-ons
There are seveal addons available to improve your internet experience:
- Unlimited Data: $40/month.
- Contour Stream Player: $5/month.
- Homelife Automation: $15/month.
- Advanced Tech Support: $10/month.
StraightUp Internet (Prepaid)
StraightUp Internet is a prepaid internet service offered by Cox. Sign up for a contract-free internet option and enjoy a pay-as-you-go model.
StraightUp Internet offers download speeds of up to 100 Mbps for a flat rate of $50 per month. This speed is suitable for most common internet activities, such as streaming videos, browsing, online learning, and gaming.
The plan includes all necessary equipment at no extra cost. You get a modem and router or gateway, which means there are no additional fees for equipment rental.
Keep in mind that like other Cox internet plans, StraightUp Internet has a data cap of 1.25 TB per month.
Panoramic WiFi
Panoramic WiFi, included with the Essential 100 plan or available for $14/month, offers strong coverage and advanced security. Features include:
- Wall-to-wall coverage
- Protection with Advanced Security
- Equipment upgrades every 3 years
- Optimized gaming with Elite Gamer
- Dedicated app for network management
Cox also provides access to 4 million WiFi hotspots across the U.S. Customers can find and connect to these hotspots via the Cox app or Hotspot Map.
👉 Read the full Cox Internet Review for 2024!
Cox TV & Streaming
Cox offers TV services, which consist of a traditional cable TV with a cable TV box, DVR, and internet streaming services. There are many Cox TV packages and add-ons to choose from.
Cox TV Plans
Cox offers traditional cable TV, DVR options, and internet streaming. A range of packages and add-ons are available for different viewing preferences and budgets.
| TV Plan | Cost per Month | Channels | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contour TV Starter | $56 | Over 75 | Includes major networks like CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX, and PBS |
| Contour TV Preferred | $99 | Over 140 | Includes top networks and popular cable channels like ESPN, HGTV, USA, the Food Network, TBN, and Nickelodeon |
| Contour TV Preferred Plus | $119 | Over 170 | Includes premium channels like Max, Starz, and Showtime |
| Contour TV Ultimate | $139 | Over 250 | Includes all previous tiers and additional channels like the NFL Network, Disney Junior, and Cleo TV |
All plans include a Contour cable box, voice control remote, and 12 months of Record 1 DVR service. Cox offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try their service risk-free.
Contour TV App
The Contour TV App lets you watch TV on your mobile devices. Download the app from Google Play or the Apple App Store, sign in to your Cox account, and access live TV and On-Demand content from anywhere. This app turns your phone or tablet into a portable TV, ensuring you never miss your favorite shows.
Premium Channels
Cox offers a selection of premium channels like Max, Showtime, STARZ, Cinemax, and MGM+. These channels are included in the Contour TV Preferred Plus and Ultimate plans, but you can add them to other plans for as little as $10 per month. These channels provide access to original TV series and movies.
TV Packages
Cox has various TV add-on packages to enhance your viewing experience.
- Sports & Info Pack: Includes NFL Network, NBA TV, NHL Network, and more. Perfect for sports fans.
- Sports Pack 2: Adds channels like NFL RedZone and MLB Strike Zone to your Sports & Info pack.
- Seasonal Sports Packages: Available during respective sports seasons, including MLB Extra Innings, NBA League Pass, NHL Center Ice, and NFL RedZone.
For movie lovers, the Movie Pack offers over 1,200 movies per month on channels like MGM+ and STARZ ENCORE. The Variety Pack includes channels like Disney JR, Nicktoons, VH1 Classic, Cooking Channel, BBC America, and more. The Latino Pack provides Spanish-language channels such as Fox Deportes, TUDN, Discovery en Español, Hogar HGTV, Nat Geo Mundo, and ¡Hola! TV. Cox also offers many international and foreign language channels like TFC, TV JAPAN, and TV5MONDE.
TV Streaming
You can add a streaming box to your Cox internet plan for $5/month. The Contour Stream Player is a wireless 4K streaming box powered by the Contour voice remote. It allows you to stream movies, music, and TV shows on any TV in your home.
It works with popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Paramount+. The Contour Stream Player also offers free On-Demand and live entertainment through services like Tubi, Pluto TV, Youtube TV, and Xumo Play.
On-Demand
Contour 2 On Demand provides access to over 150,000 movies and TV shows. Some content is free, while others can be purchased or rented. Popular TV show episodes are available for free the day after they air. You can use the Kids & Teens filter to find family-friendly content. On-Demand content can be accessed from anywhere using the Contour app.
DVR
Cox TV plans do not include a DVR, but you can add one. DVR service lets you record live TV, pause and rewind shows, and skip commercials. With a Cox TV plan, you get 12 months of free Record 1 DVR service. After this period, or if you need more recording capability, you can choose from three DVR service plans:
- Essential DVR Service: $13.50/month, records 2 shows at once, stores 250 HD hours.
- Preferred DVR Service: $20/month, records 6 shows at once, stores 250 HD hours.
- Ultimate DVR Service: $30/month, records 24 shows at once, stores 1,000 HD hours.
If you have a compatible DVR box from a previous service, you can use it with a Cox CableCard for $4/month.
Homelife: Cox Smart Home
Homelife is a smart home system powered by Cox Internet and Panoramic WiFi. With Homelife, you can stay connected with what's happening at home from anywhere. You can see who is at your door, check on your pets, keep an eye out for deliveries, and more while you are away.
Homelife Features
Homelife includes 24/7 continuous video recording with the Homelife HD camera. It has 2-way audio for listening and talking. The optional Homelife Video Doorbell provides live HD video with two-way audio of your front doorstep, so you can watch for visitors, packages, and more.
In addition to these two pieces of Homelife equipment sold by Cox, there are many other smart home devices that can be controlled through Homelife. Additional features (that require compatible, third-party devices) include thermostats, lights, door locks, and motion sensors. All of these features can be accessed and controlled through the Panoramic WiFi app.
Homelife Packages
Homelife can be purchased as part of one of three Cox packages. The different prices for each Homelife package are based on the speed of the internet plan.
All Homelife plans include internet and Panoramic WiFi.
| 100 Mbps Homelife Package | starting at $64.99/mo |
| 500 Mbps Homelife Package | starting at $104.99/mo |
| 1 Gbps Homelife Package | starting at $124.99/mo |
The 100 Mbps Homelife package costs $64.99 per month. The 500 Mbps Homelife package is $88.99 per month, and the 1 Gbps Homelife package is $124.99 per month. All of these plans require a 1-year contract.
Basic Package
The base package for every plan includes home video viewing services and control through the Panoramic WiFi app.
Base equipment:
- 1 HD Camera (equipment fee applies)
- Continuous Video Recording for up to four cameras
- EasyConnect installation
- Available add-ons:
- Additional cameras
- Camera mounting
- Equipment Service Plan
A large variety of smart home devices can be added to Homelife. These include smart locks, doorbell cameras, smart bulbs, motion sensors, thermostats, and more. For a complete list of compatible devices, visit the Cox Homelife Compatible Devices page.
Homelife App
The Homelife App makes managing all of your smart home devices easy. You can view who's at your front door, check for deliveries, keep an eye on pets, control your lights, change your thermostat setting, get motion sensor notifications, and more — all in one convenient place, wherever you are.
The app is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play. It can be downloaded for free, and requires you to sign in with your Cox account.
Homelife Support
If a Cox Homelife customer needs help with their smart home service, there is a useful Homelife Support page on their website. From there, you can find answers to many frequently asked questions, solutions to common issues, DIY articles, and how-to videos. It also includes links to shop for compatible equipment and download the Homelife iOS app or Android app.
Cox Home Phone
Cox offers reliable home phone services that run on an upgraded digital fiber-optic network.
Cox Voice Preferred - $20/mo
The Cox Voice Preferred home phone plan gives you everything you need with crystal-clear HD calls. You get a primary phone line, unlimited calls to the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, and voicemail. It costs $20 per month and includes all of the following features:
- Block robocalls
- Simultaneous ring – This is a handy feature that will ring your cell phone when you get a call on your home phone line, so you can answer from your backyard or when you’re out on a walk.
- Call return
- Speed Dial 8
- Speed Dial 30
- Call forwarding
- Call waiting
- 3-way calling
- Selective call forwarding
- Block selective calls
- Caller ID
- Call waiting ID
Addons
In addition to the above features, there are many extras you can add to customize your home phone service. You can select any of these add-ons during checkout:
Simply Worldwide International Calling Plan (can be added to Cox Voice Premier for an extra $2.99 per month)
- Keep existing phone number or get a new one
- Directory preferences
- Backup modem battery in case of power outages
Home Phone Support
Cox has a Home Phone Support section for Cox Home Phone customers who need help with home phone services. It includes solutions to common problems, answers to FAQs, DIY articles, how-to videos, and a tool to check your voicemail.
Cox Mobile
Cox offers reliable, affordable mobile phone plans to customers who already have Cox internet. Cox Mobile uses Verizon’s 5G network to provide cell coverage just about anywhere.
There are two simple plan options that customers can choose from to best suit their unique needs. With Cox Mobile, customers can either bring their own phone or purchase one from Cox. With no annual contracts, customers have the flexibility to change plans or cancel at any time.
Eligibility
Customers must have Cox internet service before purchasing a mobile phone plan. To sign up for a Cox mobile plan, customers must meet all of the following eligibility requirements:
- You must reside at a Cox serviceable address.
- You must have an active Cox residential Internet service plan. StraightUp Internet and Roommate accounts are not eligible.
- Your Cox account must be enrolled in EasyPay and Two-Step Verification.
- Your Social Security Number must be entered into the account.
- Any mobile devices you currently own and wish to use with the Cox Mobile plan must be compatible with Cox.
If a customer moves out of the Cox serviceable area, they can retain their Mobile phone line as long as they remain in the continental U.S. However, after 30 days, there will be an additional $20 charge per line each month.
Cox Mobile Data Plans
There are two simple Cox mobile data plans: Pay as You Gig and Unlimited Data. Both plans include unlimited calls and texts, a 5G mobile hotspot, and access to over 4 million WiFi hotspots.
| Pay As You Gig | $15/GB |
| Unlimited Data | $45/mo |
Pay as you Gig
Pay as you Gig starts at $15 per Gigabyte (GB). There is no set monthly charge. Instead, you are automatically billed $15 for every Gig of data you use each month. This is a good option for customers who don't use a lot of mobile data every month and only want to pay for the data they need.
Unlimited Data
Unlimited Data costs $45 per month for one line with autopay. This is the better option for customers who use at least 3 GB of mobile data each month.
Cox Mobile plans can be mixed & matched, even if on the same account. Since there are no contracts, you are free to change plans anytime.
Mobile International Calling
International calling can be added to either of the Cox Mobile Data plans. There are 3 international plans: the Canada & Mexico plan, World plan, and Travel Day pass.
The Canada & Mexico plan includes calling to those two countries from the United States. It costs $10 per month.
For international calling to over 240 countries, including Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, there is the World plan. This plan costs $45 per month.
For travelers, there is the $10/day Travel Day Pass. This plan includes phone calls to over 150 countries so you can keep in touch with family and friends while abroad. To enable the pass, contact Cox. You will be charged the $10 fee only for the days when you use your phone line during your trip.
Mobile Phones
Cox sells mobile phones or you can bring your own device (BYOD). Currently, Cox sells the latest Apple and Samsung phones on their online store and in physical locations. Trade-ins are available at store locations only.
If you wish to use your current mobile phone with Cox Mobile, you should first use the Check Device Compatibility page to verify that it is compatible with Cox. After you sign up for your mobile data plan, Cox will send you a new SIM card. Simply replace your old SIM card with the new one, and your Cox Mobile service will begin!
Device Protection
Did you know that 1 in 5 people will damage, lose, or have their phone stolen within the first year after purchasing it? That's why Cox offers Device Protection.
Device Protection can be added to your Cox Mobile Data plan for $7/mo. It is only available when you purchase a phone from Cox.
Cox Mobile Device Protection includes unlimited $29 cracked screen repair, unlimited battery replacements, expert tech support, hassle-free claims, and unlimited photo storage with the Asurion photos app.
Mobile Phone Support
Cox has a Mobile Phone Support section if customers need help with mobile phone services. It includes help for common mobile phone support topics and popular tools, like mobile activation, WiFi hotspots, data usage, and device support.
Bundles
Cox offers bundling options on two or more of their services. Customers can combine and save on their monthly communications and entertainment bill by taking advantage of one of these bundling options:
● Internet + TV (Contour Stream Player only)
- 100 Mbps: $54.99 per month, no term agreement
- 250 Mbps: $74.99 per month, no term agreement
- 500 Mbps: $64.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
● Internet + TV (140+ TV Channels)
- 100 Mbps: $148.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
- 1 Gbps: $198.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
● Internet + Homelife
- 100 Mbps: $64.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
- 250 Mbps: $98.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
- 500 Mbps: $88.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
- 1 Gbps: $128.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
● Internet + TV (140+ Channels) + Homelife
- 100 Mbps: $163.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
- 250 Mbps: $197.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
- 500 Mbps: $187.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
- 1 Gbps: $227.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
● Internet + TV (140+ Channels) + Phone
- 100 Mbps: $168.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
- 500 Mbps: $178.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
- 1 Gbps: $218.99 per month, 1-year term agreement
Custom Bundles
In addition to the standard bundles offered by Cox, custom bundles can be created if you only want specific services. Just choose the combination of services you want during checkout to create your custom bundle.
How To Sign Up for Cox
Signing up for Cox can be done entirely online. Visit the Cox website to browse plans and bundles. When you are ready to order, simply select the plan you wish to sign up for and follow the prompts to check out. Then, you can review any additional add-ons.
There is also the option to visit a Cox store in person. This may be the preferred method if you want your equipment that same day.
To set up Cox internet, you can either self-install for free or schedule professional installation for $100. Some homes and services may be required to get professional installation. However, if you have the option to self-install, then you can easily do so using the Cox Easy Connect kit, which pairs with the Cox app.
How To Contact Cox / Get Tech Support
If you have any questions about your Cox services or need technical support, there are a variety of ways to get the help you need.
First, there are customer support pages available for every Cox service. These support pages provide helpful tools, answers to frequently asked questions, solutions to common problems that customers run into, how-to videos, and articles. Click one of these links to visit the respective Cox Support page:
Cox Forums is another valuable resource for getting the help you need. Customers can post in forums to get answers to questions from other Cox customers or employees.
If you still need assistance after checking the support and forums pages, there is a live chat option. Customers can start a live chat with Oliver, Cox's virtual assistant, or request a chat with a live agent.
Another option is to call Cox to speak with a team member at one of these phone numbers during hours of operation:
Sales
1-800-234-3993
Hours: Monday - Friday from 8 am - 9 pm; Saturday from 9 am - 6 pm
Support
1-800-234-3993
Tech support hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Account Services & Billing Hours
Monday - Friday, 8 am - 6 pm; Saturday & Sunday, Closed
Retention Hours
Monday - Friday, 8 am - 9 pm; Saturday, 9 am - 6 pm
HomeLife
1-877-404-2568
Tech support hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Sales and billing hours: Monday - Friday, 8 am - 9 pm local time; Saturday & Sunday, Closed
Cox Complete Care
1-877-COX-ASST (269-2778)
Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
To Transfer your Service
1-800-458-7154
Transfer online: (link)
Transfer support hours: Monday - Friday, 8 am - 9 pm; Saturday, 9 am - 6 pm
Alternatively, you can swing by a Cox location to get help. To find the closest store to your home, visit the Cox Store Locator page.
Oliver
Oliver is Cox's 24/7 virtual assistant. You can start a live chat with Oliver at any time by clicking the "Let's Chat" on the Cox Contact page, or by texting 54512.
Customers can also log in to their account to manage their Cox services and get technical support.
Cox App
The Cox app can be used to get support, manage your account, pay bills, change plans, perform speed tests, check for service outages, and more. It is available for Cox customers to download for free from the Google Play or Apple App Store.
Using the Cox app requires that you sign in with your account. However, after the first time signing in, you can use Face ID or fingerprint recognition.
The first time you open the Cox app, Cox will run a network check on your services using the Smart Help troubleshooting feature. If it detects any issues with your services, you can immediately get help for those problems.
The Cox app also makes installing Panoramic WiFi a breeze. Just use the Easy Connect feature to start setting up your home's WiFi from your mobile device.
How To Cancel Cox
To cancel your Cox services, call 1-800-234-3993. You will only be billed for the partial month of services that you used. So, if you disconnect before the end of your billing cycle, you will not be charged for the entire cycle.
You must return all equipment by either dropping it off at a Cox store location or shipping it. Keep in mind that most Cox plans have an annual contract. So, there may be cancellation fees if you cancel services before the term is up.
Alternatively, if you are moving, there is an option to transfer your current Cox services to your new address. Visit the Cox Move page and fill out the required fields to see service availability in your new location. If your Cox services are available, then you can transfer your services over to your new address, bring all your Cox equipment with you on the move, and either install it yourself or get professional installation when you settle into your new home.
If you wish to pause your services for a time or only use Cox for part of the year, you may also want to look into the Cox Seasonal program. This program allows you to pause your services for a minimum of 30 days up to a maximum of 9 months, up to twice per year, without having to uninstall or reinstall equipment.
Is Cox Right for Me?
Without a doubt, Cox Communications is one of the best cable internet providers in the nation. The company has a long history as one of the most reliable, reputable, and well-recognized names in the cable internet industry.
You should certainly consider choosing Cox as your ISP, especially if Cox Fiber is available in your area. Since fiber is the future, you may want to check first to see if fiber internet is available from Cox or another internet provider at your location.
If fiber internet isn't an option where you live right now, then Cox cable internet is still a solid choice. The company's cable network is even more reliable than 5G home internet and still capable of reaching Gig speeds.
However, Cox is on the pricier side of cable internet providers. While their bundling options do make Cox internet more affordable, you can get faster speeds for much lower prices with some other ISPs.
For instance, at $49.99 per month, you can get up to 250 Mbps download speeds with Cox. For a similar price with other cable internet providers, like Mediacom or Xfinity, you can get 600-800 Mbps download speeds.
Another drawback is that most Cox internet plans require a 12-month contract or you'll have to pay more. If you want more flexibility, then you may want to look at prepaid options like StraightUp.
Deciding whether to sign up for Cox comes down to which internet providers are available in your area, along with your own internet usage needs and budget.
Take some time to compare Cox with other internet providers in your area. Luckily, our thorough fiber and cable internet provider reviews have compiled all the research you need to help you find the best ISP for your household. Be sure to check them out to discover which is the perfect fit for your home.
