A new survey of more than 500 Americans who have cut the cord on their cable television subscriptions finds that local news broadcasts on ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC affiliates continue to serve as the leading source of information. Twenty-nine percent of respondents identified these over-the-air local newscasts as a primary way they stay informed, even after cutting the cord.
The poll allowed participants to select every platform they use for news, capturing the reality that most people draw from several sources rather than depending on just one. This multiple-selection format produced overlapping percentages that together exceed 100 percent and reflect the hybrid media diets common in the streaming era.
Social media platforms placed second, with 25 percent of cord cutters reporting they regularly get news through them. These networks deliver quick updates, shared articles, video clips, and trending discussions that fit easily into busy daily routines. Their accessibility on smartphones and tablets makes them a natural fit for viewers who have already moved away from bundled television packages.
YouTube now ranks third, chosen by 14 percent of those surveyed. The platform hosts everything from short news clips and live event coverage to longer explanatory videos and full reports produced by both established outlets and independent creators. Its recommendation system helps users discover relevant stories without scheduled air times, appealing to cord cutters who prefer on-demand viewing.
Cable television news came in fourth at 13 percent. Some respondents apparently retain limited access through streaming bundles, shared household accounts, or occasional viewing elsewhere, showing that certain cable brands still attract interest even after households drop full cable service.
Free streaming news services, such as CBS News 24/7 available online, accounted for 6 percent. These ad-supported or openly accessible options provide continuous coverage that mirrors traditional television but without monthly fees. They offer a low-cost bridge for viewers seeking professional journalism on their own schedule.
Newspapers finished last among the listed sources, cited by only 5 percent. The low figure aligns with broader industry patterns in which print circulation has steadily declined as readers shift to faster, more portable digital formats.
Cord cutting itself has accelerated in recent years as households seek relief from rising cable bills and embrace flexible streaming alternatives for entertainment. Yet the survey shows that news habits have not changed as dramatically as entertainment choices. Many cord cutters still use simple digital antennas to receive free high-definition signals from local network affiliates. This approach delivers community-focused reporting on weather, traffic, local government, and neighborhood events at no extra cost, helping explain why broadcast news holds its position.
The persistence of local television alongside digital platforms creates a mixed picture for the media industry. Broadcast stations maintain strong local relevance while expanding their digital footprints through apps and websites. Social media and YouTube allow faster distribution and wider reach but require careful navigation of algorithmic feeds and varying content quality. Free streaming channels expand options without adding to household expenses, and the continued though reduced presence of cable news indicates lingering loyalty to familiar national coverage.
As millions more households are expected to cut the cord in the coming years, these patterns offer guidance for news organizations. Maintaining robust local reporting while meeting audiences on the platforms they already use will determine how effectively information reaches the public. The survey underscores a transition in delivery methods rather than a wholesale rejection of traditional journalism. In an age of abundant choices, cord cutters continue to value reliable local news even as they spread their attention across digital alternatives. This balanced approach shapes the future of how Americans learn about their communities and the wider world.
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