Streaming Costs Surge: YouTube TV Hits $83 Monthly, Rivaling Cable Prices

NEW YORK, N.Y. — As streaming services continue to raise prices, YouTube TV has joined the ranks of premium live TV streaming platforms, now costing $83 per month. This price hike mirrors the rising costs across the industry, leaving consumers to weigh their options between streaming and traditional cable.

Steph Keller, a photo editor from New York, recently cut back on her streaming subscriptions after her YouTube TV bill climbed to $83 monthly. “We were paying over $200 to watch TV, which is crazy,” Keller said. She now uses a combination of ESPN+ for sports, Netflix‘s ad-supported plan, and Prime Video, keeping her total monthly streaming costs under $30.

Kourtnee Jackson, a senior editor at CNET, suggests starting with more affordable live TV streaming services like Philo or Sling TV. “They offer fewer channels than YouTube TV or Hulu with Live TV, but they provide a great starting point in terms of pricing,” Jackson said. She also recommends bundling services, such as Hulu and Disney+, to save money.

According to a 2024 CNET survey, the average monthly cost of basic cable plus internet is $144, while streaming live TV plus internet averages $135. However, cable add-on fees can increase the total by $30 to $50 monthly, making streaming a more cost-effective option for many.

Despite the rising costs, streaming services are expanding their offerings. Platforms like Peacock and Paramount+ now include live programming, including sports. “Some services are offering more live TV all the time,” Jackson noted. “They offer live sports, which is a big draw for many viewers.”

For sports enthusiasts, however, cable might still be the better option. Services like Fubo and DirecTV Stream cater specifically to sports fans, offering extensive coverage of NFL, NBA, MLB, and more. Yet, these services come with their own premium price tags, with DirecTV Stream’s “Choice” package costing $94.99 monthly after an introductory period.

Keller advises consumers to do their research and consider alternatives. “Do your research, talk to people,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to cut back and save that money.”

As streaming prices continue to rise, the line between streaming and cable costs blurs, leaving consumers to navigate an increasingly complex landscape of options.