Best live TV streaming services with local channels

How we chose the best services to stream local channels

To select the best streaming services with local channels, we’ve highlighted the most popular options that allow you to stream some or all of the most common local networks. We compared not only their local lineup but also their complete channel offerings, on-demand content, pricing, and other features to select the best options for five different types of streamers.

Top streaming services for local channels

• Best overall: DIRECTV STREAM
• Best for cable-free versatility: Hulu + Live TV
• Best for budget local TV streaming: Sling TV
• Best for regional sports: Fubo
• Best for overall channel lineup: YouTube TV

Which services offer local channels?

Here’s a look at which streaming services offer local TV channels: 

How to stream local channels for free

The best way to watch local channels for free is with a digital antenna. You can also try out streaming services. Many of them, like Paramount Plus and YouTube TV offer trials for new customers. Just make sure to set a reminder before your trial expires or they will charge you once the trail ends.

Best overall: DIRECTV STREAM

About DIRECTV STREAM

DIRECTV STREAM is built for cord-cutters who still want to feel like they’re getting the cable experience. Everything from the plans to the channel guides to the pricing is similar to the cable — but without the long-term contract. Plans all include the most popular local channels, but you may want to consider an upgrade to the Choice plan so you can get more regional sports coverage. DIRECTV STREAM is also a great choice for larger households, since each plan comes with unlimited streaming devices.

Why is DIRECTV STREAM the best overall?

If you’re used to cable TV, you’ll feel right at home with DIRECTV STREAM. You’ll get a wide range of channels plus a solid library of on-demand content. Even better, you can stream local channels and regional sports on as many devices as you want at home. Plans get expensive, but there’s a lot to enjoy here.

Best for cable-free versatility: Hulu + Live TV

About Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV offers the best of all streaming worlds. With more than 95 channels and a vast on-demand library of top-tier current and classic films and shows, there’s something for everyone here. Now that all Hulu + Live TV plans include the Disney Bundle, you also get access to the impressive Disney Plus library and tons of live sports on ESPN Plus. 

Why is Hulu + Live TV the best for cable-free versatility?

It’s tough to find a better all-around option for your streaming needs. Other streaming platforms may offer more channels or more add-on choices, but none offers Hulu’s combination of on-demand and live programming. You’ll find most of your local channels streaming on Hulu + Live TV. If you want to watch local TV anywhere — plus a whole lot more — this is your best bet.

Best for budget local TV streaming: Sling TV

About Sling TV

Sling TV is the best budget-friendly streaming option on the market. You can choose from two different lineups or combine them both for a slightly higher price tag, and you’ll be able to stream on one to three devices at once, depending on which plan you choose. The biggest downside? You’ll only find a few local channels streaming in select markets. 

Why is Sling TV the best for budget local TV streaming?

If you’re wondering how to stream local channels, Sling TV might fit the bill. It’s a bit of a gamble, but if you’re in one of the markets where Sling offers ABC, Fox and NBC alongside its solid but limited lineup of cable channels, it may suit you just fine — and for a low price. Enter your ZIP code on Sling TV’s website to find out which channels are included in your area.

Best for regional sports: Fubo

About Fubo

Fubo is a sports-focused streaming service, but it offers an impressive channel lineup that includes the most popular cable channels and local networks. Best of all for local sports fans, it also includes regional networks like Bally Sports. These are included in every plan, and you’ll get as many as 283 channels, depending on which package you choose. Fubo can get expensive between the package price and a variety of add-ons available. Also, a fee may be applied for any packages that include regional sports networks.

Why is Fubo the best for regional sports?

If regional sports are your top streaming priority, look no further than Fubo. On top of your local channels and regional coverage, you’ll get a range of national sports networks such as ESPN, FS1, beIN Sports, Big 10 Network, CBS Sports Network, NFL Network and more. Where other streaming services with local channels may offer these as add-ons, they’re built into the basic plan with Fubo. Note that TBS and TNT are notably absent from the channel lineup here, so that may be a drawback for some viewers.

Best for overall channel lineup: YouTube TV

About YouTube TV

For streamers who prioritize a solid channel lineup over on-demand content, YouTube TV stands out as a good choice. Compared to its closest competitor, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV offers more local channels, including PBS and Univision. It also includes a few more cable channels, such as NBA TV, BBC World News and IFC. YouTube TV also allows you to stream on three devices at once, compared to Hulu’s two-device limit. YouTube TV is slightly more expensive than Hulu + Live TV but by no means the most expensive option on the market.

Why is YouTube TV the best for an overall channel lineup?

YouTube TV is a solid all-around option for local TV streaming, especially if you don’t need much on-demand content. You’ll find a good balance of sports, entertainment, news and family programming here, complete with the best set of local channels that any streamer has to offer. Plus, YouTube TV offers plenty of add-ons to customize your streaming experience, including discounts on NFL Sunday Ticket.

Our take on the best streaming services with local channels

Choosing the best streaming service with local TV channels isn’t as easy as it used to be. Many live TV streaming platforms now include these with your subscription, so it comes down to which channels and what specific features you’re looking for. Consider your budget, how much on-demand content you want, and how many channels — both local and national — you need before you decide.  

FAQ

What is the cheapest streaming app for local channels?

If you live in the right market, Sling TV offers CBS, Fox and NBC in its’ Sling Blue plan. Alternatively, if you only want access to one specific channel for an even lower price, you might want to consider services like Paramount Plus, which offers local CBS programming, or Peacock, which offers your local NBC station.

What streaming service has ABC and NBC?

You can find ABC and NBC on several streaming services with local channels, including DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV.

How do I get local channels on my smart TV?

You can access local channels by purchasing a subscription with a live streaming platform like Fubo or DIRECTV STREAM. You can also make a one-time purchase of a digital antenna to watch local content.