The Best Affordable Streaming Services with Local Channels

Getting local channels with a cord-cutting service is not always straightforward, easy, or cheap. The most affordable streaming service that offers local channels is Sling. It costs $40/month and offers a lineup of NBC and FOX in select markets. The next best thing is Paramount+, which offers CBS affiliate channels. As a general rule, you should check with each service to see what they offer depending on your area.

DirecTV: NBC, PBS, ABC, FOX, Telemundo, and CBS

At $75.99, DirecTV is not exactly cheap but they do offer the most extensive local channel lineup.  DirecTV's local channels include NBC, PBS, ABC, FOX, Telemundo, and CBS. If you're looking for the most comprehensive cord-cutting solution, DirecTV is probably your best bet.

Sling TV: NBC and FOX in select markets

As one of the cheapest cable alternatives,  Sling TV is a great bang for your buck. This is especially true if you're looking to watch national channels like ESPN, A&E, Lifetime, and so on For local TV, Sling offers  NBC and FOX in select markets.

Paramount+: CBS

Paramount+, costing only 9.99/month, offers CBS affiliate  channels in most markets. However, there are some areas where you may not get a local CBS station. For example, my area only offers On Demand content from the network. In addition to that, the service also offers CBS Sports HQ, CBSN, ET Live, and a big on-demand library.

Hulu with Live TV: ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC

At $64.99, Hulu with Live TV costs $5 less than most of the competition (Youtube TV, DirecTV Stream). That $5 might not sound like much but it could get you a whole other streaming service. Check out our guide to the best streaming services under $10. Hulu's live TV offering carries the four major local networks. You'll get access to other channels like A&E, ESPN, and Bravo with your subscription.

Spectrum TV Choice: local channels depending on your area

Spectrum TV can either be cheap or expensive: there is no way to know unless you call them. Not so cord-cut-y of them, but it is a cable company after all. This is their cable alternative option: and it usually runs cheaper than cable.