If you've cut the cord, accessing local news without a pricey cable subscription doesn't have to be difficult. As streaming experts with years of experience testing apps across devices, we've found reliable free options to keep you informed about your neighborhood happenings right on your TV or phone.
These eight apps deliver live local news channels like FOX, CBS, and NBC, often with extras like weather, sports, and entertainment. We've evaluated their interfaces, channel lineups, and performance to bring you the most trustworthy choices.
Locast, a non-profit service, makes local news, sports, soap operas, and talk shows accessible to all. It's an excellent antenna-free alternative to cable or paid subscriptions.
The intuitive interface resembles a basic cable guide, complete with showtimes, episode details, and scrollable channels tailored to your location.
Free to download on major streaming devices, Locast suggests a $5 donation to support broadcast retransmission costs. Available channels vary by area but typically include FOX, CBS, and NBC affiliates.
Download: Locast for iOS | Android | Roku (Free, with suggested donation)
NewsON provides free live and on-demand news from 250+ channels across 165+ markets. It auto-detects your region but lets you explore other cities' coverage.
Navigate effortlessly between live streams and clips available for 48 hours post-airdate.
Download: NewsON for iOS | Android | Roku (Free)
Haystack News delivers nonstop local and global coverage, ideal for balancing neighborhood updates with worldwide stories.
Customize your feed by saving interests upon signup—it prioritizes local content automatically. The mobile layout shines for on-the-go viewing.
Download: Haystack News for iOS | Android | Roku (Free)
LocalNow specializes in local news, weather, traffic, and sports, plus movies and shows for variety.
Expect diverse stories, including original content from their team on health and community wellness.
Perfect for TVs, it lets you seamlessly switch between news and entertainment.
Download: LocalNow for iOS | Android | Roku (Free)
CBS News offers free local broadcasts in major cities like Los Angeles, New York, Boston, Chicago, and Philadelphia, plus weather and disaster updates.
Search "local CBS" in your app store for affiliates.
Download: CBS News for iOS | Android | Roku (Free)
Pluto TV blends local CBS News with diverse entertainment channels. For broader local sources, pair it with dedicated news apps.
Download: Pluto TV for iOS | Android | Roku (Free)
ABC News streams live primetime, local coverage, curated national videos, and shows like Good Morning America and Nightline. Search "ABC local" for market-specific apps.
The mobile app combines streams, recaps, and podcasts for all-in-one access.
Download: ABC News for iOS | Android | Roku (Free)
NBC News covers local, national, and international stories with live updates, MSNBC, and shows like Nightly News. Search "NBC Local" for affiliates.
Download: NBC News for iOS | Android | Roku (Free)
As cord-cutting surges, local news access improves. Choose based on your needs: pure local focus, national mix, or entertainment add-ons. These apps ensure you're always in the know.
