Now that Locast has shut down its live, local streaming service for the time being, many former Locast users are looking for alternative solutions for watching local channels after cutting the cord. While there may not be one perfect alternative to Locast, here are some ways to watch local channels.
Use an Antenna for Free Local Channels
With an antenna, many households in the U.S. can get their live, local channels for free.
To check to see what stations are available in your area, enter your zip code on a site like AntennaWeb. You’ll get a list of available stations in your area and they’ll suggest antennas for you.
Here are some of our recommended brands and models:
Right now, Antennas Direct is giving away 1,000 ClearStream Eclipse antennas to former Locast users. Click here to read more about how to get a free antenna and for a 30% off discount on more antennas and accessories at Antennas Direct.
Watch Local News, Weather & More With Free Streaming Services
- VUit has television station partners owned by Gray Television, Meredith Corporation, Cowles Media Company, Heritage Broadcasting Group, Morgan Murphy Media, and Cox Media Group, with local news coverage for more than 150 of the 210 total markets nationwide.
- STIRR has over 100 channels, including local news channels. When opening the website or app, you’ll be able to choose the Stirr City closest to you, or choose Washington D.C. to watch national news.
- LocalBTV offers local TV stations in 13 markets across the country and includes a guide with 2 weeks of programming and a Cloud DVR. It sounds very similar to Locast. Maybe too similar (as in, don’t get too attached.)
Use the Big Five Network Apps
ABC, CBS, CW, FOX, and NBC all have their own apps that allow cord cutters to stream their favorite primetime broadcast. These apps usually are ad-supported, but they’re a good free way to stay updated on the latest shows. The biggest drawback is that not all programming is offered live and sometimes there may be a delay to watch a show on-demand. Pairing a Big 5 network app with your local station’s app is a good cord cutting technique to stay updated on local news and your favorite shows.
Subscribe to a Live TV Streaming Service
Live streaming services including DirecTV Stream, fuboTV, Hulu with Live TV, Sling TV, YouTube TV, and Vidgo offer access to live, local channels. If you’re only looking for content from one channel, a premium Paramount+ subscription will give you access to your local CBS affiliate channel. Peacock will give you content from NBC but does not yet include a live feed of your local NBC channel, but Peacock will be airing every Sunday Night Football game this season.
| Channel | DirecTV Stream (*Starts at $69.99/mo.) | Fubo TV (*Starts at $64.99/mo.) | Hulu + Live TV (*Starts $54.99/mo. | Sling TV (*Starts at $35/mo.) | Youtube TV (*Starts at $64.99/mo.) | Vidgo (*Starts at $55/mo.) |
| ABC* | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| CBS* | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| CW* | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| FOX* | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| NBC* | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
*Pricing and network availability may vary based on plan and subscriber’s location.