Is Streaming Really Cheaper Than Cable?

When Netflix began offering an online alternative to physical DVDs, it kicked off the start of a streaming-versus-cable debate that still rages today. Maybe you've joined team

streaming and have no idea how much it costs for cable or satellite TV anymore. Or perhaps you've stuck with Xfinity or Spectrum for such a long time because you're used to paying

a set amount for a bundle. Either way, are you getting the best value for your money? With its contracts and fees, cable TV is nowhere near cheap. The alternative is a suite

of streaming services, but paying for multiple subscriptions -- or even a live TV streaming service like DirecTV Stream -- could also rival your cable bill. According to a July

2022 study from Parks Associates, roughly one-quarter of American households subscribe to nine or more streaming services, while 50% of us have at least four. These days,

you can sever the cord completely and solely use streaming services like Hulu, Disney Plus or YouTube TV. You can also keep satellite or cable TV as your main dish while

subscribing to a couple of streaming platforms on the side. There's also the option to watch 100% of what you want on cable TV only. All those choices can quickly become

overwhelming, but don't worry. Here, we do the math to break down how you can save money in most parts of the US with the best combination of cable, streaming and internet. (You

can also find out how much you can save by shopping at Trader Joe's compared to a regular supermarket, and how much you can save by switching from bottled water to a Brita

filter.)