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Best streaming services for local channels in 2024
For a long time, the only way to watch local TV channels was to rely on spotty antenna service or sign a lengthy, expensive cable contract. Neither was a great way to ensure you could watch your favorite local programming anytime, anywhere.
In 2023, that’s no longer the case. There are now many streaming services with local channels, offering the best of cable and local TV on the go and from any device. These services range in price, and the right one for you will depend on how much you want to do on top of local TV streaming. Read on to find the best fit.
How we chose
To select the best streaming services with local channels, we’ve highlighted the most popular options that allow you to stream some or all of the most common local networks. We compared not only their local lineup but also their overall channel offerings, on-demand content and other features to select the best options for five different kinds of streamers.
Top streaming services for local channels
- Best overall: DIRECTV STREAM
- Best for cable-free versatility: Hulu + Live TV
- Best for local TV with regional sports: Fubo
- Best for a strong overall channel lineup: YouTube TV
- Best for budget local TV streaming in some markets: Sling TV
Best overall: DIRECTV STREAM
- Includes ABC, CBS, Fox, PBS, NBC and Telemundo
- Range of plan options to customize your coverage
- Regional sports coverage available
About DIRECTV STREAM
DIRECTV STREAM is built for cord-cutters who still want to feel like they’re getting the cable experience. Everything from the plans to the channel guides to the pricing is similar to the cable — but without the long-term contract. Plans start at $79.99 a month, and all include the most popular local channels, but you may want to consider an upgrade to the Choice plan for $108.99 a month so you can get more regional sports coverage.
Why is it the best?
If you’re used to cable TV, you’ll feel right at home with DIRECTV Stream. You’ll get a wide range of channels plus a solid library of on-demand content. Even better, you can stream local channels and regional sports on as many devices as you want at home. Plans get expensive, but there’s a lot to enjoy here.
Best for cable-free versatility: Hulu + Live TV
- Extensive on-demand library includes Disney Plus
- Over 95 live TV channels plus live sports on ESPN Plus
- Includes ABC, CBS, The CW, Fox, NBC and Telemundo affiliates
About Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV offers the best of all streaming worlds. With more than 90 channels and a vast on-demand library of top-tier current and classic films and shows, there’s something for everyone here. Now that all Hulu + Live TV plans include the Disney Bundle, you also get access to the impressive Disney Plus library and tons of live sports on ESPN Plus. Plans start at $76.99 per month.
Why is it the best?
It’s tough to find a better all-around option for your streaming needs. Other streaming platforms may offer more channels or more add-on choices, but none offers Hulu’s combination of on-demand and live programming. You’ll find most of your local channels streaming on Hulu + Live TV. If you want to watch local TV anywhere — plus a whole lot more — this is your best bet.
Best for local TV with regional sports: Fubo
- Huge sports-centric channel lineup, even in the basic plan
- Regional sports networks like Bally Sports featured on all main plans
- Includes ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and Telemundo affiliates
About Fubo
Fubo is a sports-focused streaming service, but it offers an impressive channel lineup that includes the most popular cable channels and local networks. Best of all for local sports fans, it also includes regional networks like Bally Sports. These are included in every plan, and you’ll get as many as 283 channels, depending on which package you choose. Fubo can get expensive, with plans ranging from $79.99 to $99.99 per month and a variety of add-ons available.
Why is it the best?
If sports are your top streaming priority, look no further than Fubo. On top of your local channels and regional coverage, you’ll get a range of national sports networks such as ESPN, FS1, beIN Sports, Big 10 Network, CBS Sports Network, NFL Network and more. Where other streaming services with local channels may offer these as add-ons, they’re built into the basic plan with Fubo. Note that TBS and TNT are notably absent from the channel lineup here, so that may be a drawback for some viewers.
Best for a strong overall channel lineup: YouTube TV
- Extensive local TV streaming, with ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and more
- Most balanced overall lineup
- Wide range of add-ons to customize your plan
About YouTube TV
For streamers who prioritize a solid channel lineup over on-demand content, YouTube TV stands out as a good choice. Compared to its closest competitor, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV offers more local channels, including PBS and Univision. It also includes a few more cable channels, such as NBA TV, BBC World News and IFC. YouTube TV also allows you to stream on three devices at once, compared to Hulu’s two-device limit. Starting at $72.99 per month, YouTube TV is slightly more expensive than Hulu + Live TV but by no means the most expensive option on the market.
Why is it the best?
YouTube TV is a solid all-around option for local TV streaming, especially if you don’t need much on-demand content. You’ll find a good balance of sports, entertainment, news and family programming here, complete with the best set of local channels that any streamer has to offer. Plus, YouTube TV offers plenty of add-ons to customize your streaming experience, including discounts on NFL Sunday Ticket.
Best for budget local TV streaming in some markets: Sling TV
- Low-cost streamer offers the most popular cable networks
- Local affiliates for ABC, Fox and NBC available in some markets
- Lots of add-ons to customize your plan
About Sling TV
Simply put, Sling TV is the best budget-friendly streaming option on the market. For only $40 per month, you get access to some of the most popular channels available. You can choose from two different lineups or combine them both for $15 per month more, and you’ll be able to stream on one to three devices at once, depending on which plan you choose. The biggest downside? You’ll only find a few local channels streaming in select markets.
Why is it the best?
If you’re wondering how to stream local channels, Sling TV might fit the bill. It’s a bit of a gamble, but if you’re in one of the markets where Sling offers ABC, Fox and NBC alongside its solid but limited lineup of cable channels, it may suit you just fine — and for a low price. Enter your ZIP code on Sling TV’s website to find out which channels are included in your area.
Final thoughts
Choosing the best streaming service with local channels isn’t as easy as it used to be. Many live TV streaming platforms now include these with your subscription, so it comes down to which channels and what specific features you’re looking for. Consider your budget, how much on-demand content you want, and how many channels — both local and national — you need before you decide.
FAQ
What is the cheapest streaming app for local channels?
If you live in the right market, Sling TV offers CBS, Fox and NBC in its’ Sling Blue plan for only $40 per month. Alternatively, if you only want access to one specific channel for an even lower price, you might want to consider services like Paramount Plus, which offers local CBS programming, or Peacock, which offers your local NBC station.
What streaming service has ABC and NBC?
You can find ABC and NBC on several streaming services with local channels, including DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV.
Can I watch local channels for free?
To watch local channels for free, you’ll need to attach an antenna to your television set. This approach can be hit or miss, depending on the reception in your area. In some cases, you may need to mount the antenna on your roof.
