What you need to know before you read
- The average cable bundle costs $147/month. Most households save $40–$70/month on TV alone after cutting the cord.
- 2026 is the best time ever to switch — streaming now covers live sports, local news, and every major network.
- The biggest risk is subscribing to too many services and rebuilding your cable bill. Be intentional.
- Your internet connection matters more than which streaming service you pick. Slow or inconsistent internet causes buffering regardless of what you’re watching.
- Race fiber internet delivers symmetrical speeds with no data caps or contracts — the ideal foundation for a streaming household.
Why 2026 is the year to finally cut the cord
You’ve been thinking about it for a while. Maybe your cable bill crept up again. Maybe you noticed you haven’t actually watched half those channels in months. Or maybe a friend cut the cord and won’t stop talking about how much they’re saving.
Those instincts are right. 2026 is genuinely the best time ever to make the switch. The streaming industry has matured enough that pretty much every type of viewer has a great option waiting for them. The days of cutting the cord meaning sacrifice are over.
Cable TV subscriptions have fallen from 105 million in 2010 to around 55 million in 2025 — a level last seen in 1992. Meanwhile, more than 60% of US households already don’t have a traditional cable subscription.
But here’s what nobody tells you: switching is easy to get wrong. Subscribe to too many services and you’ll recreate your cable bill overnight. Pick the wrong package and miss the channels you actually care about. Skip a step and spend an evening troubleshooting instead of watching.
That’s exactly why we wrote this guide. You’ll know which streaming services are worth your money, how to keep live sports and local news, which devices to use, how to make sure your internet can handle it all, and how to cancel cable without surprise fees. We’ve also included sample streaming stacks by household type, and a step-by-step checklist for when you’re ready to make the move.
1. What are you actually paying for right now?
Before you cancel anything, pull up your cable bill and actually read it. Most people are surprised by what they find: equipment rental fees, regional sports surcharges, broadcast TV fees, DVR service charges, and a promotional rate that expired two years ago and quietly became full price. It adds up fast.
The average cable bill vs. a streaming stack
The average cable bundle (TV + internet) has climbed to $147/month. When you cut the cord, you’ll still need internet separately — so here’s what an honest comparison looks like.
| What replaces your cable TV | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Live TV streaming service (YouTube TV, Sling TV) | $45–$83/month |
| One or two on-demand services (Netflix, Max, etc.) | $8–$18/month each |
| TV antenna for local channels | $20–$50 one-time |
| Free options (Tubi, Pluto TV) | $0 |
| Internet service (you’ll keep this regardless) | $40–$80/month |
Most households save $40–$70 a month on the TV portion alone after switching — with no long-term contracts, no equipment rental fees, and the freedom to cancel any service, anytime.
Race offers fiber internet plans to fit every household:
| Plan | Speed | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Internet 300 | 300 Mbps | 1–2 users, casual streaming |
| Internet 500 | 500 Mbps | Small families & remote workers |
| Gigabit Internet | 1,000 Mbps | Busy households, gaming, 4K |
| 10 Gigabit Internet | 10,000 Mbps | The fastest residential speed in the country |
Pricing varies by area. Check what’s available at your address at race.com.
Does streaming always cost less?
A word of caution: streaming can also get expensive if you’re not paying attention. If you subscribe to every major service plus a live TV package, you could easily spend more than cable. The trick is being intentional — pick what you’ll actually use, lean on free options where you can, and rotate subscriptions seasonally.
Before you switch, call your cable company and ask them to match whatever streaming alternative you’re considering. Sometimes they’ll drop your bill significantly just to keep you. It might buy you time while you sort out your streaming setup.
2. Know what you watch before you pick a service
Before you subscribe to anything, answer these four questions honestly:
1. Do you need live TV, or are you mostly watching on-demand?
Live TV streaming services (YouTube TV, Sling, etc.) are pricier — usually $45–$83/month — because they’re full cable replacements with real-time channels. On-demand services like Netflix are much cheaper because you’re watching content whenever you want, not live. If you mostly watch shows after they air and don’t care about live events, you might not need a live TV service at all.
2. Do you follow live sports?
If you’re a casual fan who watches the occasional game, you might be fine with what’s available on over-the-air broadcast channels via antenna, or a budget streaming package. But if you need NFL Network, ESPN, regional sports networks, or all four major leagues, you’ll need a more robust live TV service.
3. How important is local news to you?
Local affiliates (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox) are available on most live TV streaming services and via free over-the-air antenna. If local news is a daily habit, this is easy to keep — you just need to confirm your local channels are covered by whatever service you choose.
4. How many people and devices will be streaming at once?
The number of simultaneous users affects which streaming plans you choose (some limit simultaneous streams) and whether your internet connection can handle the load. A family with four people streaming on different devices at the same time has very different needs from a single person watching on one TV.
Write down the last 10 shows or events you watched. Which ones were live? Which were on-demand? That ratio tells you a lot about what kind of streaming setup you actually need.
3. The streaming landscape in 2026
The streaming world can feel overwhelming from the outside. Here’s a map of what’s out there — broken down by live TV services, on-demand services, and free options.
| Service | Monthly price | Live TV | DVR | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | ~$83/mo | ✅ | Unlimited | Best all-rounder |
| Hulu + Live TV | ~$83/mo | ✅ | Unlimited | Disney+ included |
| Sling TV | From $45/mo | ✅ | 50 hrs | Budget-friendly |
| Philo | ~$28/mo | ✅ (no sports) | Unlimited | Entertainment only |
| DirecTV Stream | Varies | ✅ | Varies | Best RSN coverage |
| Netflix | From $8/mo | — | N/A | On-demand binge |
| Disney+ | From $12/mo | — | N/A | Families & Marvel |
| Max (HBO) | From $11/mo | — | N/A | Prestige TV |
| Peacock | From $11/mo | Limited | N/A | Sports + NBC shows |
| Tubi / Pluto TV | Free | — | N/A | Zero-cost streaming |
Prices current as of March 2026. Always check the provider’s website for the latest pricing.
On-demand services: the bread and butter
These are the services you’re probably already familiar with. You watch what you want, when you want, with no live TV. Most offer ad-supported tiers (cheaper) and ad-free tiers (pricier). Netflix leads with the biggest library of originals; Disney+ is the go-to for families; Max delivers prestige HBO content; Prime Video is included with Amazon Prime and adds some live sports; and Apple TV+ offers a smaller but high-quality library — including exclusive F1 racing rights starting in 2026.
Live TV streaming services: the cable replacements
These are the services that replace traditional cable most directly — live channels, DVR, and local stations through an app instead of a cable box. YouTube TV is the most well-rounded pick for most households. Hulu + Live TV bundles Disney+ and has strong sports coverage. Sling TV is the budget-friendly option with fewer channels but a much lower price. DirecTV Stream earned an 82% customer satisfaction score in 2026 and currently offers the best regional sports network coverage.
Free streaming: the underrated option
Don’t overlook free, ad-supported services. Tubi offers a massive on-demand library. Pluto TV adds free live “channels” you can browse. Kanopy is free through many public libraries and is excellent for documentaries. Peacock’s free tier also offers a surprising amount of content.
Many households use one live TV service + Netflix + a free service like Tubi and spend less than $100/month total — no contract, no equipment rental, and the ability to cancel anything, anytime.
4. The sports problem, solved
If there’s one thing that keeps people on cable, it’s sports. A few years ago, that hesitation made sense. Today it’s mostly a solvable problem.
| Sport / League | Where to watch |
|---|---|
| NFL (broadcast games) | CBS, Fox, NBC — on most live TV services and free via antenna |
| NFL Network / Sunday Ticket | YouTube TV |
| NFL Thursday Night Football | Prime Video |
| NBA | Regional sports networks or national broadcasts; League Pass as standalone |
| MLB | MLB.TV as standalone add-on |
| College sports | ESPN / ESPN+ via Hulu + Live TV or as an add-on |
| Soccer (MLS) | Apple TV+ (exclusive MLS rights) |
| Soccer (international) | Peacock, Paramount+, ESPN+ |
| NASCAR | Peacock |
| F1 | Apple TV+ (starting 2026) |
| Golf | Golf Channel on most live TV bundles |
Casual fan? An antenna for free broadcast games plus a mid-tier streaming service will cover you just fine.
Serious multi-sport fan? YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV with sports add-ons as needed gets you close to cable-level coverage. Budget $80–$100/month.
Need regional sports networks (RSNs)? RSN availability has been shrinking across streaming services. DirecTV Stream currently offers the most RSN coverage, though at a higher price.
Regional sports networks remain the biggest gap in streaming coverage. If you rely on a local RSN for team coverage, do your research before canceling cable. Check which streaming services carry your specific regional network at the time you switch.
5. Don’t leave local news behind
For many households — especially those in smaller towns — local news is non-negotiable. Weather alerts, community events, emergency information. The good news: local news is one of the easiest things to keep after cutting the cord.
- Live TV streaming services (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling’s higher tiers) — most carry your local ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox affiliates. Always verify your specific market is covered before subscribing.
- Free over-the-air antenna — A $20–$50 antenna plugged into your TV picks up local broadcast channels completely free: local news, weather, network primetime shows, and live local sports. Signal quality depends on your location and any obstructions like trees or hills.
- Local station apps — Many local TV stations have their own free apps where you can stream newscasts and on-demand segments.
An antenna is one of the best things any cord-cutter can add to their setup. It’s a one-time cost, requires no subscription, and delivers live local TV — including news and sports — completely free.
6. Devices & hardware for streaming
You don’t need to buy a bunch of new gear to start streaming. But knowing your options helps you make the right call.
Smart TVs
If your TV is from the last 4–5 years, it probably has streaming apps built in. Most major services have apps for Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio smart TVs — the easiest path with no extra device needed. The downside is that smart TV apps can be slower and less frequently updated than dedicated streaming players. If your TV is a few years old and apps feel sluggish, a streaming player is a worthwhile upgrade.
Streaming players
These small devices plug into your TV’s HDMI port and turn any TV into a smart TV.
- Roku — Widely considered the most user-friendly option, with a neutral interface that doesn’t push you toward one company’s content. Great for less tech-savvy users.
- Amazon Fire TV — Fast and capable, but the interface leans toward Amazon’s own content. A good pick if you’re already an Amazon Prime user.
- Apple TV 4K — The premium option. Best performance, cleanest interface, and best integration with other Apple devices. Worth it if you’re in the Apple ecosystem.
The antenna
A simple over-the-air antenna is one of the smartest additions to any streaming setup. Plug it into your TV’s coaxial input, scan for channels, and you’re done — no monthly fee, live local TV forever. An outdoor or attic-mounted antenna generally performs better than an indoor one, especially in hilly areas or locations far from broadcast towers.
Fixing Wi-Fi dead zones
One of the most common cord-cutting frustrations is poor Wi-Fi to a TV in a distant room. Here are your options:
- Mesh Wi-Fi system (Eero, Google Nest, Orbi) — multiple nodes create a seamless network throughout your home. Far more effective than range extenders for large homes or thick walls.
- Wi-Fi extender/repeater — A cheaper option that amplifies your existing signal. Less reliable than a mesh system, but a decent budget solution.
- Powerline adapter — Uses your home’s electrical wiring to deliver a wired connection to difficult spots like detached garages.
- Ethernet cable — A direct wired connection from your router to your streaming device is the most reliable option of all. No interference, no dead zones.
7. The one thing nobody talks about: your internet
The quality of your streaming experience has almost nothing to do with which service you pick, and almost everything to do with your internet connection. A great Netflix subscription on a slow, inconsistent connection will be a frustrating experience. A modest streaming setup on a fast, reliable fiber connection will feel effortless.
What speeds do you actually need?
| Household type | Minimum speed | Recommended Race plan |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person, casual streaming | 25 Mbps | Internet 300 |
| 2 people, HD streaming | 50 Mbps | Internet 500 |
| Family (3–4), mixed HD/4K | 100 Mbps | Gigabit Internet |
| Power household (5+), 4K + gaming + WFH | 200 Mbps | 5 Gigabit or 10 Gigabit Internet |
These numbers are for streaming alone. Add smart home devices, video calls, gaming, and general browsing, and you’ll want more headroom than the minimums suggest. A busy household with multiple people working, gaming, and streaming simultaneously can genuinely benefit from a gigabit connection.
Consistency matters as much as speed
It’s not just about how fast your connection is — it’s about how consistent it is. A cable internet plan might advertise 200 Mbps, but during peak evening hours when your whole neighborhood is online, you might actually be getting 60 Mbps. That inconsistency is what causes buffering.
Fiber internet works differently. Because it uses light signals rather than electrical signals through copper, it’s not affected by neighborhood congestion. You get the speeds you pay for — reliably — at 7pm on a Friday just the same as 3am on a Tuesday.
Before you do anything else, run a speed test on the device you plan to stream on, connected to Wi-Fi as you normally would be. If results are significantly lower than what your plan advertises, that’s worth investigating with your internet provider before blaming your streaming service for buffering.
8. Building your streaming stack
Now for the fun part: putting together your personal lineup. The goal is to get everything you actually watch, for the least amount of money, with the least amount of complexity.
You don’t have to subscribe to everything at once. Most streaming services are month-to-month with no contracts. Subscribe to Netflix for a month, binge what you want, then pause or cancel and try something else. You’ll never run out of content — and you’ll spend far less.
🏈 The Sports Household
- YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV (~$83/mo)
- Amazon Prime Video (~$15/mo, includes TNF)
- Free antenna for local broadcast games
📺 The Binge-Watcher
- Netflix ($7–$18/mo depending on tier)
- Max / HBO ($11–$18/mo)
- Rotate Disney+, Peacock, or Paramount+ seasonally
- Tubi or Pluto TV for free fill-in
📰 Local News + Basics
- Free antenna for local channels and live news
- Sling TV Blue (~$45/mo) for national news and cable basics
- Netflix or Peacock for on-demand
💰 Budget-First Household
- Free antenna for local channels
- Tubi and Pluto TV (completely free)
- Kanopy through your local library (free)
- One rotating paid service ($7–$12/mo)
One of the easiest ways to accidentally recreate your cable bill is letting subscriptions pile up without noticing. Set a calendar reminder every 3 months to review what you’re subscribed to and cancel anything you haven’t used.
9. Your step-by-step checklist for cutting the cord
Step 1: Check your internet
- Run a speed test
- Confirm your speeds are sufficient for your household
- If your internet isn’t up to the task, now’s a great time to upgrade
Step 2: Decide what you need
- Answer the 4 questions from Chapter 2 (live TV, sports, news, devices)
- List the shows, channels, and events you actually watch regularly
- Match those to the services that cover them
Step 3: Get your hardware ready
- Check whether your TV has built-in apps, or whether you need a streaming player
- If needed, pick up a Roku, Fire TV, or Apple TV
- Consider an antenna if local channels are important to you
- Address any Wi-Fi dead zones in your home
Step 4: Start your trial
- Sign up for your chosen services (most offer free trials)
- Test everything before you cancel cable
- Make sure all the channels and content you care about are covered
Step 5: Cancel cable
- Call your cable company and let them know you’re canceling
- If you’re staying for internet, negotiate an internet-only rate (often cheaper than bundled)
- Return any equipment to avoid being charged for it
Your streaming setup is only as good as your internet
Race Communications delivers 100% pure fiber internet built for exactly this: multiple streams, video calls, gaming, and everything else your household throws at it — all at the same time.
- Symmetrical upload and download speeds
- No data caps on any plan
- No long-term contracts
- Race CommandIQ® app for full home Wi-Fi control
Frequently Asked Questions
Most households save $40–$70 per month on the TV portion of their bill after cutting the cord, even when factoring in the cost of one or two streaming services. The average cable TV + internet bundle runs $147/month. A comparable streaming setup — one live TV service, Netflix, and a free add-on like Tubi — typically runs $60–$100/month total including internet.
Yes, for most sports. NFL broadcast games are available on most live TV streaming services and for free via antenna. YouTube TV carries NFL Sunday Ticket. Prime Video has Thursday Night Football. For NBA, MLB, and college sports, a combination of live TV streaming and league-specific apps (NBA League Pass, MLB.TV, ESPN+) covers the majority of games. The main gap is regional sports networks — if your team is on an RSN, check whether your preferred streaming service carries it before canceling cable.
If your TV was made in the last 4–5 years, you likely already have built-in streaming apps and need nothing else. If your TV is older, a streaming player like a Roku, Amazon Fire TV, or Apple TV 4K ($30–$130 one-time) will do the job. An over-the-air antenna ($20–$50) is strongly recommended for free local channels and news.
A single person streaming HD content needs at least 25 Mbps. A family of 3–4 people with a mix of HD and 4K streams across multiple devices needs at least 100 Mbps. For households with simultaneous 4K streaming, remote work, and gaming, a gigabit plan gives you plenty of headroom. More important than raw speed is consistency — fiber internet maintains its speed during peak hours in ways cable internet often cannot.
Absolutely. Local news is one of the easiest things to keep. An over-the-air antenna gives you all your local broadcast channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox) for free. Most live TV streaming services also carry local affiliates in their packages. Many local stations also have their own free apps for streaming newscasts on-demand.
It depends on what you watch. For most households that want a direct cable replacement, YouTube TV is the best all-around option: 100+ channels, unlimited DVR, and a clean interface. If you want to save money and don’t need live TV, a combination of Netflix (or Max) plus a free service like Tubi covers most viewing needs for well under $30/month.
Subscribing to too many services at once. It’s easy to sign up for five or six services in the first week and end up spending more than you did on cable. The smarter approach: start with one or two services, use free options like Tubi to fill gaps, and rotate paid subscriptions month-to-month based on what you’re actually watching.