Backwoods WiFi

Streaming in the country

Streaming on rural internet

Yes, you can drop the dish and stream. Here are the services rural families use most, from free channels to live TV.

Streaming in HD uses about 3 GB of data an hour, so a steady home connection matters more than a fast one. If your phone gets a usable signal at your place, cellular home internet usually handles streaming fine. Start with the free services below, add an antenna for local channels, and add one paid service at a time.

Streaming services worth a look

Live TV, on-demand, faith and family, and free streaming.

Live TV streaming

Sling TV

Live TV with sports, news and cable channels; pick the channel packs you want.

Visit Sling TV

Philo

Low-cost live TV for entertainment, lifestyle and movie channels (no sports or local news).

Visit Philo

YouTube TV

Live TV with local channels in most areas, sports and unlimited cloud DVR.

Visit YouTube TV

Hulu + Live TV

Live channels plus the Hulu library, with Disney+ and ESPN+ bundled in.

Visit Hulu + Live TV

DIRECTV STREAM

The closest thing to a cable lineup, streamed over the internet with no dish.

Visit DIRECTV STREAM

Fubo

Sports-first live TV with many regional and national sports channels.

Visit Fubo

Frndly TV

Family-friendly live channels like Hallmark, INSP and Great American Family.

Visit Frndly TV

Movies and shows on demand

Max

HBO, Warner Bros. movies, Discovery and HGTV shows.

Visit Max

Prime Video

Movies and shows included with Prime, plus add-on channels.

Visit Prime Video

Faith and family streaming

Angel Studios

Faith-filled, family-friendly films and series; much of it free to watch.

Visit Angel Studios

Free streaming

Pluto TV

Free live channels and movies with ads. No sign-up needed.

Visit Pluto TV

PBS

Free PBS documentaries, history and kids' shows.

Visit PBS

Some links on this page are affiliate or referral links. If you sign up through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Ready to stream at the house?

Send us your address and we will tell you honestly what to expect.

Ask About Your Address