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Yes, you will need to pay an average of around $185 to install your satellite dish and other equipment when signing up for satellite TV service. When you contact a satellite TV company in your area, the representative will discuss everything from your channel options and monthly rate to the upfront cost of the equipment. Depending on how many dishes you need, you could spend as much as $600 for the initial installation, but that’s just a one-time fee.

For customers looking for access to more channel variety and better DVR capability, satellite TV service is absolutely still worth it. When you consider that the cost of cable TV service averages $65 per month, the $70 per month you’d pay for satellite TV seems like an obvious choice, especially since the service is considered superior by most customers. Plus, satellite TV is available in far more areas than cable TV, so it’s not only worthwhile but sometimes the only option for customers in rural areas.

The cost of satellite TV service varies based on the provider you choose, where you live, and the package of channels you purchase, but the average cost is around $70 per month. Most customers pay between $50 and $150 per month for the service. Keep in mind that you’ll also have to pay to install the satellite dish(es) to receive the signal, and the initial equipment averages around $185 per dish, or between $100 and $600, including labor.

The best satellite TV service largely depends on your budget, preferences, and viewing habits. Here are some pros and cons of the most popular services:

• DISH Satellite TV: More affordable, wide variety of selections especially for families with children

• DIRECTV: Robust “Sports Pack” and bundles with internet and phone service to help you save if you need multiple services

We recommend reaching out to a few satellite TV companies in your area before deciding which is right for you.