Best Alternatives to YouTube TV in 2025 (That Actually Save You Money)

YouTube TV is a solid streaming service — but at over $72/month, it’s not exactly a bargain anymore. If you’re looking for a cheaper, simpler way to watch live TV and local channels, you’ve got options. Some are well-known… and one you might not have heard of (but should definitely check out).

1. CUE Broadcast

Let’s start with the option that checks all the boxes: CUE Broadcast. It’s a powerful, no-nonsense streaming service that gives you:

• Live local channels (CBS, NBC, FOX, ABC, and more)
• National and regional sports channels
• News, entertainment, and family-friendly programming
• No contracts, no surprise fees, no confusing bundles

It works on all your favorite devices (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Android, etc.), and the price? Way less than YouTube TV.

If you’re looking to save money without losing the channels you care about, CUE Broadcast is easily one of the best alternatives out there.

2. Hulu + Live TV

Hulu’s live TV package includes most of the same channels as YouTube TV, plus access to Hulu’s on-demand library. But it comes at a cost: around $76.99/month.

It’s a solid option, especially if you’re already using Hulu, but it won’t help much if you’re trying to cut costs.

3. Sling TV

Sling is a budget-friendly pick, but it comes with trade-offs. There are two base packages (Orange and Blue), both starting at $40/month, and you’ll likely need to stack add-ons to get what you really want — which can drive up the price fast.

Local channels are also limited or missing in many areas.

4. FuboTV

Fubo is a good pick for sports fans — especially international sports — but at $79.99/month, it’s even pricier than YouTube TV. You’ll get a wide variety of sports channels, but again, it’s not exactly cheap.

5. Use an Antenna + Free Streaming Apps

If you mostly watch local channels, you can use a digital antenna for live network TV and supplement it with free apps like Pluto TV or Tubi for extra content. It’s not the same experience, but it’s ultra budget-friendly.

Final Thoughts

If YouTube TV is starting to feel like cable 2.0 — expensive, bloated, and full of stuff you don’t need — it’s probably time for a switch. You’ve got plenty of choices, but few offer the mix of simplicity, affordability, and channel coverage like CUE Broadcast.

It’s everything you need, nothing you don’t — and way less per month than the big-name services.