Be honest. How much time do you spend watching niche channels like the Hallmark Channel, Speed, or Animal Planet? If you scanned your cable lineup, you might be surprised at how many channels you rarely—or never—watch.

That’s why more people than ever are cutting the cord to save money.

Cable TV: High Costs, Limited Value

Cable TV is far from inexpensive. According to FRED Economic Data, the Consumer Price Index for cable, satellite, and live streaming services reached 580.611 in 2024, translating to an average monthly cost of $580+ per year for cable services. This includes not just the base subscription price but also taxes, fees, and additional charges for premium services.

The Decline of Traditional Pay-TV

The cost isn’t the only factor driving households away from cable. In 2024, Leichtman Research Group reported that U.S. pay-TV providers lost over 1.1 million subscribers in Q3 alone, surpassing the 1 million lost in the same quarter of 2023. Households are transitioning to more flexible and cost-effective streaming options.

Streaming Services: A Growing Market

Streaming services continue to dominate. As of Q3 2024:

• Netflix boasts 252 million subscribers.
• Hulu reported 50 million paid subscribers.
• Disney+, combined with Hulu and ESPN+ under its bundle, exceeded 150 million subscribers globally.

While cable costs are rising, streaming services offer competitive pricing and tailored content. For instance:

• Netflix's Standard plan costs $15.49 per month, and its Premium plan (Ultra HD, 4 simultaneous screens) costs $22.99 per month.
• Hulu's No Ads plan is $17.99 per month, while Hulu with Live TV starts at $77.99 per month.
• Amazon Prime Video, included with Amazon Prime, offers free content and a pay-per-view model for rentals or purchases, making it a flexible option for families.

Building a Streaming Library

With streaming, you can mix and match services to suit your preferences. Here’s an example:

• Netflix for blockbuster movies and original series.
• Hulu for next-day TV show streaming.
• Amazon Prime Video for a wide selection of movies, rentals, and exclusive content.

Even if you subscribe to multiple services, your monthly expenses are likely to remain lower than a traditional cable package.

Devices That Simplify Streaming

Streaming is easier than ever, thanks to devices like:

• Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Google Chromecast.
• Gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation.
• Mobile apps for iOS and Android, enabling you to stream anywhere.

These devices range from $35 to $130 or more, but the one-time purchase pays off in convenience and access to a world of content.

Free Channels and Options

One of the best-kept secrets of streaming is the wealth of free channels available. Platforms like Pluto TV, Tubi, and Freevee offer movies, classic TV shows, and niche content at no cost. From sci-fi to vintage dramas, there’s something for everyone.

The Bottom Line

Even if you invest in a streaming device and subscribe to multiple platforms, you’ll likely save hundreds compared to cable. Plus, streaming lets you pay only for the channels and services you actually use. The technology continues to improve, offering better picture quality, fewer interruptions, and more content.

There’s no better time to cut the cord and take control of your entertainment costs. Embrace the flexibility and affordability of streaming —you won’t regret it.