Cable TV vs. Streaming Costs in 2025: What’s Actually Cheaper?
Is cutting the cord really cheaper than keeping cable TV?
With cable prices continuing to climb and streaming platforms multiplying, many households are rethinking how they watch TV. While streaming promises lower costs and more flexibility, hidden expenses—like high-speed internet and stacking multiple subscriptions—can blur the line. By June 2024, nearly 40% of all TV usage in the U.S. was dedicated to streaming, not cable companies.
In this guide, CableCompare.com breaks down the real costs of cable vs. streaming in 2025 to help you decide what’s right for your budget and lifestyle.
Why are people switching from cable to streaming?
- Cable bills are too high: Monthly rates have risen faster than inflation.
- Customer frustration: Long wait times, hidden fees, and contract traps are common.
- Streaming feels freer: No contracts, more control, and easier cancellation.
- But costs add up: Subscribing to multiple streaming platforms can rival cable prices.
Pros and cons of cable TV in 2025
Advantages of cable TV
- All-in-one access: No app switching—just turn on your TV.
- Bundled services: Combine TV, internet, and phone under one provider.
- Exclusive channels: Some content, like local sports and news, is still cable-only.
Disadvantages of cable TV
- Expensive monthly bills: Average cost is $90–$120/month with add-ons.
- Equipment rentals: Cable boxes and DVRs cost $10+/month.
- Contract restrictions: Early termination fees and price hikes after promotions.
- Still full of ads: Even premium channels often include commercials.
Pros and cons of streaming services
Advantages of streaming
- Watch anywhere: Use your phone, tablet, or smart TV on the go.
- On-demand access: No DVR needed—watch anytime.
- No contracts: Cancel anytime, no penalties.
- Account sharing: Split subscriptions with friends or family to lower costs.
Disadvantages of streaming
- Requires fast internet: Typically $50/month or more.
- Scattered content: No one platform has everything.
- Constant changes: Licensing deals shift, and shows come and go.
What does cable TV actually cost in 2025?
Here’s a snapshot of typical cable and internet bundles:
Select Double Play
- $99.99 ($119.99 after promo) per month
- 219+ channels (with Showtime, Starz)Internet speeds of up to 150 Mbps
- Total cost for two years is approximately $2,600
Internet 300 + DirecTV
- $124.99 per month plus fees.
- 495+ (ESPN, Showtime, cable news)Internet speeds up to 300 Mbps
- Total cost over two years is approximately $2,800
Internet Advantage + TV Stream
- $60 (promo price for 2 years)
- Stream 85+ channels and thousands of on-demand titles
- Internet speeds up to 100 Mbps
- Total cost for two years is approximately $720
*Prices are approximate and may vary based on location, promotions, and additional fees.
What do streaming services cost in 2025?
Here’s a quick breakdown of top on-demand and live TV streaming platforms:
- $7.99
- Originals, ad-free, 4K options
- $18.99
- New TV episodes, originals, ad-free options
- $8.99 (included with Prime)
- Huge catalog, free shipping perks
- $9.99
- Marvel, Pixar, National Geographic, basic and ad-free options
- $9.99
- Original content, ad-free, available with other services such as Apple Music, Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness, and Apple News
- $7.99
- NBC catalog, live TV, sports
- $9.99
- HBO originals, movies, 4K
- $82.99
- Live TV, DVR, local channels
- Free, paid starts at $45.99
- Budget live TV options
- $14.99
- Live TV, sports, movies
- Free
- Free on-demand movies and shows with ads
- Free
- Live TV and on-demand movies with ads
- Free
- Selection of movies, TV series, and original content
- Free
- Live and on-demand content, including news and entertainment
Don’t forget: You’ll also need high-speed internet, typically around $50/month.
Want to cut costs without cutting content?
Compare high-speed internet plans in your area with CableCompare.com. We help you find affordable internet bundles that match your streaming habits—so you can stream smarter, save money, and ditch long-term contracts for good.
Conclusion: Should you stick with cable or switch to streaming?
Choosing between cable and streaming in 2025 comes down to your budget, your viewing habits, and how much flexibility you want.
- Cable TV gives you all-in-one access and live local channels—but often at a higher cost, with contracts and equipment fees.
- Streaming services offer more flexibility, no contracts, and the ability to watch anywhere—but require fast internet and some content juggling.
Final verdict: Is streaming cheaper than cable?
- Cable + Internet: $100–$130/month on average
- Streaming + Internet: $65–$90/month (depending on number of platforms)
- Shared streaming: As low as $60–$75/month if costs are split
- Streaming is generally cheaper—especially if you stick to 1–2 platforms and share accounts.
- Cable offers convenience, but usually at a higher price with less flexibility.
- You may not save hundreds, but you’ll gain freedom, control, and no contracts.
If saving money is your top priority, streaming will likely be the better option—especially if you limit subscriptions or share plans with others. But for those who want a familiar setup and bundled services, cable might still be worth it.
