Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Carrying Value	$ 12,802	$ 12,856
Interest rate derivatives designated as hedges	64	65
Weighted average pay rate for the Company's interest rate swap agreements (in hundredths)	2.25%	2.25%
CCH II, LLC Notes [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Carrying Value	1,304	1,692
Fair Value	1,311	1,713
CCO Holdings Notes [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Carrying Value	6,987	6,241
Fair Value	7,488	6,630
Charter Operating Notes [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Carrying Value	201	833
Fair Value	202	847
Credit facilities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Carrying Value	4,310	4,090
Fair Value	$ 4,450	$ 4,193