A striking new survey from Cord Cutters News shows that nearly one in five cable TV subscribers—19.4%—are now shelling out over $200 a month for their service, a figure that underscores the escalating costs driving viewers to ditch traditional TV. Conducted among over 1,900 readers, the poll paints a grim picture for cable customers, with 74.6% reporting monthly bills exceeding $100 when they finally cut the cord. The data highlights how fees, premium channel shifts, and add-ons like Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) are inflating costs, pushing many to streaming alternatives.
Here’s how the costs break down for cable TV subscribers, per the survey:
- 19.4% pay over $200 a month
- 24.7% pay $151 to $200
- 30.5% pay $101 to $150
- 12.3% pay $69 to $100
- 2.5% pay $50 to $69
These numbers reflect a reality where base subscription rates are just the start. Comcast, for instance, has moved RSNs—once standard in mid-tier plans—to its priciest packages, tacking on RSN fees (often $19 or more monthly), broadcast TV fees ($25 or more a month), device rental charges, and taxes that can balloon bills by 24%, per Consumer Reports.
The survey aligns with broader trends as a recent research study says the average cost of cable TV is now $147 a month just for TV with some customers paying way more. This price has driven many to consider cheaper streaming options. With cord cutters, averaging $70 or less for internet plus streaming services many see savings. Yet, for cable holdouts, the cost creep—echoed in Comcast’s 2025 fee hikes—suggests a tipping point. .
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. You can find Luke on X HERE.