Do you want to cancel cable TV and still watch local news without paying for it? The good news is that you can watch your local news programs on ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC for free in most areas by streaming online. This means you can get your local news, weather, and other local programs without the high cost of cable TV using a Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Google TV.
Note: This guide has been updated for 2024.
How to watch local news free with an antenna.
For most Americans, an antenna will give you free access to local channels. This means you can watch your local news and primetime and daytime content for free from your local TV stations. Reception varies depending on where you live, but for most Americans, a one-time cost of an antenna will help you get free TV for life.
You can use a site like Antennaweb to see what channels are free in your area.
How to stream local news for free online with Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Google TV, and others.
There are many popular apps that offer free news streaming online from local news sources. These services have apps on most if not all the major streaming services.
Here are just a few great options:
NewsON offers live news from all over the United States. They have over 275 local news stations streaming on their website through their app on the most popular devices. You can learn more on their website HERE.
Haystack News also offers both live and on-demand news streaming for free online from a ton of news stations, including local Nexstar stations. You can learn more on their website HERE.
Local Now is a free option that includes a ton of local news stations plus curated local news programs from The Weather Channels’ parent company. You can learn more on their website HERE.
Tubi is a FOX-owned streaming service that includes a ton of movies and TV shows and most local FOX affiliates for local news. You can learn more on Tubi’s website HERE.
The Roku Channel is available on multiple devices—not only Roku players. It also comes with a ton of local news for free. You can learn more on The Roku Channel’s website HERE.
With all these options, you should be able to find most, if not all, your local news stations. So, enjoy your local news without the need to pay for an expensive news package.
Please follow us on Facebook and X for more news, tips, and reviews. Need cord cutting tech support? Join our Cord Cutting Tech Support Facebook Group for help.