9 Must-Have Streaming Deals Under $20 a Month

The Evolution of Streaming and How to Save Money

The idea of cutting the cable cord was once seen as a way to save money. However, today, with services like Netflix, Disney+, Max, and others, streaming costs have become comparable to traditional cable bills. A 2024 study by Deloitte revealed that the average U.S. household now spends around $61 per month on streaming subscriptions — nearly matching what many used to pay for cable.

Despite this, it's still possible to watch everything you want while paying significantly less. It just requires some smart strategies and knowing where to look.

Start with the Free Stuff

One of the biggest changes in streaming is the improvement of free services. Platforms like Tubi, Pluto TV, and Freevee are no longer just for B-movies. According to recent data from Fox Advertising, 65% of viewers now use at least one free, ad-supported streaming service regularly. These platforms offer everything from classic sitcoms to recent blockbusters, supported by ads that are often less intrusive than traditional TV commercials.

Peacock’s free tier gives next-day access to current NBC shows, while The Roku Channel has been acquiring quality content. YouTube has also evolved beyond cat videos, offering full movies, documentaries, and entire TV series uploaded legally by studios.

Master the Art of Rotation

Instead of subscribing to every service, savvy streamers rotate their subscriptions. Most people watch one or two shows at a time anyway. For example, subscribe to Netflix for a month to binge a new series, then cancel and switch to Apple TV+ for a prestige drama. Use a simple calendar reminder to track when to cancel before the next billing cycle. This strategy can cut your monthly streaming budget by up to 75% while letting you watch everything on your list — just not all at once.

Bundle Up for Maximum Savings

Phone and internet companies often offer bundle deals to retain customers. T-Mobile includes Netflix with certain plans, and Walmart+ memberships may include Paramount+. Verizon offers Disney Bundle deals that can slash your streaming costs in half. Check with your current providers first — you might already have access to streaming services you’re paying for separately. Credit cards are also offering cashback categories for streaming services or statement credits for specific platforms.

Share the Wealth (Legally)

Some streaming services allow multiple profiles and simultaneous streams. Split a family plan with actual family members or trusted friends. Netflix’s standard plan allows two screens in one household, while Disney+ permits four simultaneous streams. This can reduce the cost per person to $8 or even $4. Just remember to use separate profiles to keep your viewing recommendations clean.

Time Your Trials Strategically

New streaming services often offer free trials. Instead of jumping in immediately, consider a more strategic approach. Free trials have a high conversion rate, with 30-day trials having a 56% conversion rate, according to a study highlighted by App Developer Magazine. To maximize the value of these trials:

• Determine the best start date: Wait until the full season of your must-watch show is available.
• Manage your email addresses: Stay organized by tracking which addresses you’ve used for different services.
• Set cancellation reminders: Avoid unexpected charges by setting reminders to cancel before the trial period ends.

Embrace Your Library Card

Public libraries have entered the streaming age. Apps like Hoopla and Kanopy offer free streaming of movies, documentaries, and TV shows with just your library card number. While the selection skews toward independent films and educational content, there are plenty of gems to be found. Some library systems even offer access to specific streaming services or digital magazine subscriptions.

Hunt for Annual Deals

Black Friday isn’t just for electronics anymore. Streaming services often offer discounts on annual subscriptions, sometimes up to 50% off. Hulu has historically offered year-long subscriptions for $1.99/month during November. Peacock, Paramount+, and others may follow suit. Buying a discounted annual subscription can lock in savings if you know you’ll stick with a service.

Mix Live TV Alternatives Wisely

Missing live sports or news often drives people back to expensive packages. An HD antenna (one-time cost of $20-$50) pulls in local channels at no cost. Add ESPN+ for specific sports, or choose Sling TV’s stripped-down packages for targeted channel access. Many news networks stream free on their apps or websites. Sports leagues increasingly offer their own streaming packages.

Don’t Overlook Network Apps

Major networks want you watching their content, regardless of how. ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox all offer free apps with recent episodes; no cable login required. Cable channels are following suit. AMC, Comedy Central, and others offer limited free content on their apps. Combined with other strategies, these apps fill the gaps nicely.

Create Your Custom Combo

You don’t need to sacrifice quality or variety to cut your streaming costs. Mixing free services, rotating subscriptions, and tapping into underused perks like library apps or bundles allows you to build a personalized setup that suits your viewing habits and your budget.

Streaming doesn’t have to be all or nothing — the smartest strategies land somewhere in between. Spend less, watch more, and take back control of your entertainment budget.