Will cable TV ever go away?

No, cable TV isn't disappearing overnight, but it's in significant decline due to "cord-cutting," with providers evolving to hybrid models that bundle streaming services to stay relevant, though younger generations are rapidly abandoning it for on-demand content. While millions still subscribe, especially for live sports and local news, the industry is shifting towards internet-delivered TV, and some companies may phase out traditional packages entirely in favor of streaming-only options.

Is cable TV becoming obsolete?

Yes, cable TV is rapidly declining and heading towards obsolescence, with millions of subscribers leaving annually for streaming, but it's not entirely gone yet, as live sports, news, and bundled internet services keep some households tethered to it, though analysts widely agree its dominance is over and its future is limited as streaming services evolve. 

Is there any reason to keep cable TV?

Watching live sports on cable was the main reason that has kept Americans paying for cable TV as of February 2024, according to 27 percent of respondents to a survey. The second common factor was that cable TV remained a comfortable viewing solution for respondents in the country.

What percentage of Americans still pay for cable?

And you know it because we tell you about it over and over. Fifteen years ago, nearly 9 in 10 US households had a pay TV subscription. By the end of 2025, that number will be down to five out of 10. (That 50.2% number is for Q3 of this year; Wieser thinks that should get down to 50% or lower by the end of December.)

Do I really need cable TV anymore?

You might replace cable by subscribing to a handful of video streaming services, like Netflix, HBO Max, or use “faux cable” alternatives that allow you to watch live TV, such as YouTube TV and Sling TV. However, cutting the cord isn't the best choice for everyone.

The Death of Cable TV - 3 Reasons Why It’s Still Alive

What are people replacing cable TV with?

Can I watch local news without cable service? Most live TV streaming services carry local news channels. Pluto TV offers channels with content from networks such as Bloomberg, CNN, and NBC News. YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream all provide local news coverage in most markets.

How can seniors reduce cable bills?

To lower a senior's cable bill, bundle services, negotiate with the provider's retention department, downsize your package to only needed channels/features (like DVR), ask about veteran/AARP discounts, sign up for autopay, and consider alternatives like streaming services or free antennas to cut the cord, potentially using government programs like Lifeline for internet help. 

Is it cheaper to stream than pay for cable?

Streaming service pricing: Streaming services tend to be cheaper than cable TV. The average pricing begins at $8 to $25 monthly for on demand content platforms like Netflix and $45 to $90 monthly for those streaming live TV. Adding two or more subscriptions to get additional content could further drive up the cost.

Is cancelling cable worth it?

Overwhelmingly, cord cutters don't regret cancelling cable

Almost no one who has cut the cord on cable and satellite subscriptions regret it, as an astounding 95% of cord cutters are happy with their decision to move away from traditional TV services while only 5% regret it.

Do people still use cable in 2025?

Streaming dominates 2025 viewing habits, capturing 47.3% of all U.S. TV time compared to cable's 24.1%. Cable subscribers have dropped to 68.7 million households in 2025, down from 105 million in 2010, a 35% decline over 15 years.

Do you still need cable if you have a smart TV?

No, you don't need traditional cable for a smart TV; you can cut the cord and rely on an internet connection for streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube, but you'll need that internet (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) for smart features, and you might still use a coaxial cable or an antenna for free over-the-air local channels if you want them. A smart TV's core function is internet-based, so you need internet for apps, but it can still use traditional inputs for other sources like a DVD player or older cable box. 

Will cable TV ever make a comeback?

Although most cord-cutters say they dropped cable because it was too expensive, more than a third of U.S. households pay for both cable and at least one streaming subscription. A media trends survey of cable TV subscribers earlier this year showed nearly half had reconnected after previously cutting the cord.

Is internet TV better than cable?

Streaming offers greater flexibility, because you can access content from multiple devices — smart TVs, phones, tablets — without the need for physical infrastructure like a cable box. Some cable TV services, however, have included app availability to watch content to increase cable's flexibility.

What are my options if I want to get rid of cable TV?

To cut the cable, replace traditional TV with internet-based options like live TV streaming services (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV) for live channels, on-demand streaming apps (Netflix, Max, Disney+) for shows/movies, or a combination of a digital antenna for free local channels and free ad-supported services (Pluto TV). You'll also need a streaming device (Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV) or a smart TV and a strong internet connection to access these services.
 

Who has higher ratings, CNN or Fox?

Fox News consistently has significantly more viewers than CNN, often leading all of cable news in total day and primetime viewership, especially in key demographics like Adults 25-54, though MSNBC sometimes competes closely or even surpasses them during major news events like elections. For instance, in late 2025, Fox News averaged around 1.7 million total day viewers to CNN's ~430,000, securing a dominant share of the audience. 

What will replace TV in the future?

The rise of virtual screens

So what could replace the omnipresent television ? The answer may surprise you : screens that exist entirely in your field of vision, accessible through smart glasses or mixed reality headsets. Devices like the Apple Vision Pro, launched in early 2024, illustrate this shift.

What is the best replacement for cable TV?

The best alternative to cable TV is typically a live TV streaming service like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, or Fubo, offering live channels over the internet, often with great sports & local options. For cheaper options, Philo bundles entertainment channels, while Sling TV offers a customizable "skinny bundle". You can also mix and match on-demand services (Netflix, Max, Prime Video) with free ad-supported options (Tubi, Pluto TV) and an over-the-air antenna for local news. 

What channels do I lose if I cancel my TV licence?

What channels can I watch without a TV Licence? You can watch on demand programmes on all catch up services excluding BBC iPlayer, like ITVX and All 4, without a TV Licence. You need a TV Licence to watch or stream live TV on any streaming platform, channel or device.

What percent of Americans still use cable?

The percentage of Americans with cable TV has fallen sharply, with recent data from 2025 showing around 36% of U.S. adults subscribe to cable or satellite, down significantly from over 70% a decade ago, as streaming services dominate, though older demographics (65+) still favor traditional pay TV. 

Should I get rid of cable and just stream?

Cutting the cord isn't just trendy. It's practical. You can save money, watch shows you actually want to see, and ditch the hassle of long-term contracts and clunky equipment. Plus, so many shows and sporting events have also transitioned away from cable to streaming platforms.

Why are customers leaving Spectrum?

People are leaving Spectrum primarily due to rising costs, including frequent price hikes and the end of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), coupled with increased competition from cheaper, faster alternatives like 5G home internet and fiber, leading to dissatisfaction with value and service, says The Street. They also cite poor billing transparency, data caps, and a general feeling of mistreatment by the company, notes MSN and Reddit users. 

Is there a senior discount on Netflix?

No, Netflix does not currently offer a specific senior discount on its subscription plans, with pricing being the same for all ages, though they have different tiers like Standard with Ads or Premium. Seniors can save money by choosing a lower-cost plan, sharing an account (within household rules), looking for third-party deals, or using discounted gift cards, but should avoid scams promising special senior rates. 

How to get a 20% discount for seniors?

If the group of diners is composed of Senior Citizens who ordered for group meals or food items for sharing in restaurants, each Senior Citizen with a valid Senior Citizen's ID card shall be entitled to a 20% discount and VAT exemption, hence, if all the Senior Citizens in the group have valid Senior Citizen's ID cards ...

What to say to get your cable bill lowered?

Here's how to haggle for a lower rate: Be prepared: Research competitor offers from providers like Verizon or DirecTV. Know what to say: Call your cable provider and let them know you're considering switching. Mention competitor deals or ask if they can offer a loyalty discount for long-time customers.

What is the average cable bill per month?

Using data from a variety of public sources, the site found the average monthly cable package is now $217.42 per month. That's more than the average household's monthly cost of $205.50 for all other major utilities combined.