Streaming Local Channels – Everything You Need to Know

Cable television has become expensive and outdated when it comes to available features. Streaming services are the modern way of improving the experience of watching TV channels, including your local broadcasting stations. Live TV internet platforms enable access to local affiliates of all major broadcasters, such as NBC, CBS, and ABC.

Here’s a detailed list of streaming services broadcasting local channels in the United States:

• Paramount+
• DirecTV
• fuboTV
• Hulu + Live TV
• Sling TV
• YouTube TV

If you are looking for a particular station, you might find it in our detailed local channel list. And if you need recommendations on the best platforms to access local broadcasters, keep reading for more info!

Paramount+

Paramount+ is a relatively new streaming service launched by CBS. The major American network owns it, indicating that the platform is 100% reliable. Its service works flawlessly, and that includes support across smart TVs, mobile phones, tablets, and other devices. 

Thanks to the Paramount+ app, you can watch a huge library of on-demand content. This is primarily a VOD service, and you’ll enjoy over 30,000 movies and TV show episodes. In addition, the platform enabled access to local stations through its affiliates in 200 different markets. You can also watch the CBS News streaming network to ensure you are in touch with the latest events. NFL matches and NCAA basketball, golf, and MMA are all available on this platform.

Paramount+ Pricing

While Paramount+ has two subscription types, only one grant access to the local channels. It’s the Premium plan, available at $9.99 monthly. If you feel like it, you can subscribe for an entire year at a price of $99.99. The Premium plan is a more expensive subscription since it costs two times more than the Essential option.

But since the company behind Paramount+ is CBS, you’ll only gain access to their affiliate stations. Fortunately, that means available stations throughout the United States. Here’s more information about the Paramount+ local channel list.

DirecTV

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DirecTV offers the most comprehensive channel coverage you’ll find in the market. The basic package offers 65 channels, but that includes an impressive list. You’ll receive major national networks and local affiliates of NBC, ABC, CBS, and other platforms.

A generous range of local channels is available in any location. The exact lineup depends on the city, but you can check it on DirecTV’s website. Depending on the package, you’ll unlock regional sports networks like Bally Sports. The platform has a DVR cloud that works with local channels. You can record most of the content, although it might not be possible to skip commercials in all situations.

DirecTV Pricing

DirecTV is among the more expensive live TV platforms, but it delivers plenty of value for the money. The basic Entertainment package costs $69.99 monthly, and you get over 65 channels. That includes regional news stations and other local broadcasters. For $94.99 monthly, you’ll receive over 130 channels. That includes regional sports stations, an important addition for sports fans. Unfortunately, some premium broadcasters are only unlocked with the Premier plan, which costs $139.99 monthly.

fuboTV

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Although it has been around less than a decade, fuboTV has already gained many fans throughout the United States. It cooperates with major broadcasters, such as Fox, NBC, and AMC. Therefore, you can expect local channels affiliated with these operators. For NBC and Fox, you might receive national versions instead of the local ones, especially in locations where they aren’t available. 

As for the local channel lineup, you’ll find impressive coverage of ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC affiliates. In addition, Telemundo’s local partners are available in most locations. As for The CW, we suggest checking the lineup in your zip code to ensure you get the desired local channel. Depending on the place, you can look forward to accessing regional sports channels like MSG and NBC Sports.

fuboTV Pricing

Starter and Pro plans have many similarities. The first one costs $64.99, and the latter only five bucks more monthly. You receive over 100 channels, although the Pro subscription offers more DVR space and simultaneous streams. If you want to use everything that fuboTV offers, the Elite plan costs $79.99 monthly. In addition, you’ll receive 40 new channels with fubo Extra, bringing you to 150+ stations. Those who prefer the Spanish language can also join the exclusive Latino Quarterly subscription plan.

Hulu + Live TV

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Live TV has now been added to the available services offered by Hulu. Although we know this platform for VOD services, you can now join the package that unlocks local and other popular channels. The general coverage is extensive since local broadcasters are available in most locations. But the exact locations will vary on your zip code. For example, you won’t get ABC in Washington DC or Fox in Charlottesville. We suggest checking the list first and then joining the Hulu + Live TV service. The good news is the platform is ready to offer you a free trial, as well as DVR support and simultaneous streams.

Hulu + Live TV Pricing

Disney is the major owner of the Hulu service, and it’s primarily an on-demand streaming platform. You can receive access to the content library at a more affordable price. But if you add the live TV option, the cost increases. You can get Hulu + Live TV at a price of $69.99 per month. It’s a valuable deal, especially since you also get access to the generous content library with premium titles.

Sling TV

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If we are talking about platforms offering live channels, Sling TV is among the most affordable. It covers major national networks and their local affiliates at an affordable price. As usual, the situation with the available local stations is a bit complicated. Sling TV tries to be honest, and they don’t charge for local channels that you’d receive for free. Furthermore, they are willing to offer AirTV and an HD antenna to ensure you can watch and record free local stations.

Sling TV Pricing

The default price of a Sling TV package is $35 monthly. You can choose between Orange and Blue subscriptions. If you want to combine them, the price will be $50 monthly. The platform has many add-ons which could increase the price for access to specific channels. That’s why your total cost could be higher than you expected.

YouTube TV

YouTube TV is a part of Google’s platform, but it’s largely independent of the website where you upload and watch videos. This is a premium-based service that unlocks a generous list of TV channels. You’ll get over 60 channels in the default lineup, including coverage of all major networks. Viewers can access NBC, ABC, and even PBS affiliates in selected regions.

As usual, the actual channel list depends on the location. The good news is that live recordings are available on YouTube TV. Furthermore, the platform will store recordings for up to nine months. That gives you a load of time to watch the desired content.

YouTube TV Pricing

There’s not much thinking when it comes to choosing a YouTube TV plan since you can only acquire a basic subscription. It costs $64.99 monthly, and it guarantees an all-around channel lineup. Whether you are a sports fan, prefer watching the news, or enjoy movies and TV shows, you’ll appreciate the selection.

FAQ – Other Things You Should Know About Streaming Local Channels

Can I Watch Local TV Channels with an Antenna?

Yes, and this can be an alternative for a home where you don’t spend much time. However, you’ll need an antenna with a signal distance that reaches local TV station towers. It’s usually 30-50 miles, but it depends on your exact location. Unfortunately, the signal quality can vary, especially in rural areas. Additionally, local antennas won’t give you access to streaming service content libraries and many channels that would be available on these platforms.

Is It Possible to Watch Local TV Channels on the Go?

Most streaming services offer extensive support for portable devices. That includes smartphones, tablets, iPods, etc. You need to download an app for that operating system and install it on the device. Once you run it, enter your credentials for that streaming platform. You’ll get access to all its features, including TV channels available in that location.

Can I Watch Local Stations Online for Free?

Some local broadcasters have a stream that’s available on their official site. However, the list is quite limited. Most streaming platforms allow trying their services for free. The free trial varies from three to seven days or more, depending on the platform. It should be enough to test all services and choose the best one to stream local channels.

What Is the Best Streaming Platform to Watch Local Channels Without Cable?

It all depends on which platform suits your needs better. Some are directly supported by broadcasting networks, while others allow you to watch local affiliates of all major US stations. It ultimately comes down to finding a service that meets your needs best.