I used to have Tracfone service till I switched to a regular plan. For emergency use, and one in awhile use, they are probably the cheapest way to go. I even still have my old one around here. I bought one for my dad, who hardly ever uses his phone, and his has been great. The main reason I like them, is that they tell you the balance and due date for reloads right on the phone. Most others you have to call in and check. Real easy to miss a due date or run out of minutes that way. Refill cards can be bought almost anywhere for them.
I even used one as my only phone for about a year. With what little bit I used a phone (had cable internet, before digital phone) it was great.
But, take that for what its worth. I live in upstate NY, so things may or may not be the same where you live. Go on their website tracfone.com and see if they have what you're looking for. I know it sounds like an ad for them, but Im just sharing my experience. Even now, with what little bit I use mine, Ive thought about going back. Looking at the options out there, I'd go back to them.