Charter Communications received final state approval Thursday to acquire Cox Communications in a $21.9 billion deal after agreeing to California regulators’ demands for low-cost internet options and other consumer protections.
The California Public Utilities Commission voted unanimously to clear the transaction, the last remaining state hurdle. Charter had already secured approvals from the FCC and the other 44 states where the companies operate. The merger, announced in May 2025, will combine Charter’s roughly 31 million customers with Cox’s about 6 million, creating the nation’s largest internet and video provider by subscriber base.
To win California’s approval, Charter committed to offering low-cost broadband service to low-income households for five years and to maintaining existing price-lock promises. The company must also contribute $30 million to a state fund supporting broadband adoption, digital literacy, green technology, and computers for low-income households.
The FCC had approved the deal in February after Charter adjusted certain diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. With California’s sign-off, the companies expect the transaction to close soon. The combined entity will operate under Charter’s Spectrum brand in many markets while expanding its national footprint across homes and businesses. The agreement values Cox’s equity at $21.9 billion as part of a larger enterprise value that includes assumed debt.
Industry observers note the merger strengthens Charter’s position in key markets, including parts of Southern California, while the new affordability measures aim to mitigate potential rate pressures for vulnerable customers.