What are People Replacing Cable With?
Most people are replacing cable with a mix of live TV streaming services, on-demand apps, and sometimes an antenna for local channels.
The most common cable replacements are services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, Sling TV, and DIRECTV STREAM. Some people also use free apps like Pluto TV or Tubi and add an antenna to keep costs down.
The Short Answer
- Live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, Sling TV, and DIRECTV STREAM
- On-demand services like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video
- Free streaming apps like Pluto TV, Tubi, and The Roku Channel
- Antennas for free local channels in many areas
What Most People Actually Do
A lot of people do not replace cable with just one thing.
They mix a live TV service for channels and sports, one or two on-demand apps for shows and movies, and sometimes an antenna for ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX. That setup often gives people more control over price and what they are actually paying for.
Why This is Happening
People want more flexibility and fewer cable-style costs.
Nielsen says streaming reached 44.8% of total TV viewing in May 2025, which was the first time streaming beat broadcast and cable combined. That helps explain why so many households now look at streaming as the default replacement for cable.
Best Simple Answer
Most people are replacing cable with live TV streaming services like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV, plus a few other apps. If they want to save more money, they may add free streaming apps or an antenna instead of paying for a big channel bundle.
Sources:
- YouTube TV
- Hulu + Live TV
- Fubo
- Sling TV
- DIRECTV STREAM
- Nielsen: Streaming Reaches Historic TV Milestone
- FCC: Antennas and Digital Television
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