Local channels have been shaping America’s media landscape since TV’s golden age. While it may seem like times have changed with the dawn of the streaming era, the differences may not be as big as you think. It’s easy to watch big-budget films and series on platforms like Netflix and Hulu, but did you know you can get local television in the same way? Skinny bundle streaming services allow you to add live TV channels to your subscription, including options for local cable networks. You’d be surprised how many services offer local content among their channel options.
Not only can you use platforms with a live TV streaming model to catch local programming, but you can also still get local stations the same way American households have for generations — over the air. It’s easy to forget that over-the-air options are still available to anyone with an antenna, but these services have never gone away. So, there’s no reason to turn to overpriced and restrictive cable and satellite companies for local TV. This complete guide will help you watch local channels without a cable subscription.
Here are a few of our favorite ways to stream local channels:
| Price | Channels | Free Trial | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1
| $69.99 - $159.99 | 140+ | 5 days | Watch Now |
| #2
| $74.99 - $94.99 | 220+ | 7 days | Watch Now |
| #3
| $40 - $60 | 30+ - 130+ | 3 days | Watch Now |
| #4
| $69.99 - $82.99 | 85+ | none | Watch Now |
How to Watch Local Channels Online and Over the Air Without Cable
Local television stations serve communities with coverage that’s important to them, like local news, weather reports, traffic updates, sports, educational programs, local arts and culture, and more. They provide public services by announcing amber alerts, school closings, severe weather warnings and breaking news, and are a great way to keep up-to-date with what’s going on in your region. There are two main ways to get your local channels without a traditional TV provider.
“Skinny bundle” streaming services, such as Hulu + Live TV or fuboTV, offer an on-demand library as well as live channels. When you sign up, you can customize your subscription by selecting cable channels to add, allowing you to ditch networks you don’t watch. You’re charged based on the number of channels you choose, so you can avoid unnecessary extras and save money while still getting your favorite programs. Local channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC affiliates, are frequently found as part of these slimmed-down services. Availability of local network feeds will vary by region, but you can easily check out the selection by heading to the streaming service of your choice and viewing its channel list.
The other way to watch local channels is to invest in a quality TV antenna. Local channels are broadcast through local TV towers across the country, and with the right equipment, you can tune in for free. Distance from your local tower and obstructions can make a difference in channel availability and clarity of signal, but it’s still a great low-cost way to watch TV. We’ve got a full guide on the basics of how to set up free over-the-air TV, as well as how to choose an HD TV antenna.
Here is the full list of all the ways to watch local channels:
- DIRECTV
- fuboTV
- Sling TV
- Hulu + Live TV
- Paramount+
- YouTube TV
- Free Over-the-Air TV
Can I Watch Local Channels on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, or Chromecast?
You can watch your local channels on any screen you want, from your main-screen TV to your phone, by connecting a skinny bundle streaming service. Devices compatible with the streaming services above include Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Android, and your web browser. If you watch over the air, streaming devices aren’t an option.
If you’re looking for information on how to set up local TV on your chosen streaming device, check out our device-specific guides:
- How to Watch Local Channels on Android
- How to Watch Local Channels on Fire TV
- How to Watch Local Channels on Apple TV
- How to Watch Local Channels on Chromecast
- How to Watch Local Channels on Roku
- How to Watch Local Channels on iOS
More to Love for Local Channels Fans
Many viewers turn to local channels for relevant news coverage, but there are other networks that can help you stay informed. NBC is another great source of daily news, offering prime-time news segments in the morning and evening. Check out our guide on how to watch “NBC Nightly News” without cable.
CBS is one of the “Big Four” oldest and most successful networks on TV. The Big Four usually have local affiliate stations across the country. CBS is home to shows like “NCIS” and “Survivor,” as well as “CBS Evening News.” Find out how to watch CBS on our blog.
Another Big Four Network is ABC, which has programming from “ABC World News Tonight” to shows like “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Bachelor in Paradise.” Check out our guide on how to watch ABC without a cable subscription.
If you mainly watch local TV for the sports, try ESPN. It’s the biggest giant in sports programming, airing regular coverage of basketball, baseball, football, and hockey. Check out our guide on how to watch ESPN without cable.
