Cutting the cord again? Americans are spending less on streaming as fatigue and options grow

In a nutshell: The average American spent $42.38 per month on streaming-based subscriptions in 2024. That works out to just over $500 per year – or around $30,000 over a lifetime – but is actually less than the previous year by a significant margin.

According to Review’s annual State of Consumer Media Spending Report, the average American spent 23 percent less on streaming subscriptions in 2024 than in 2023.

Streaming services are a way of life for millions seeking their entertainment fix. The sheer number of services available to choose from makes it easy to keep up with current shows or rewatch your favorites on your own time, but too much of a good thing can sometimes backfire as some are finding out.

Of those surveyed, 27.8 percent said they are experiencing streaming fatigue – or the feeling of being overwhelmed by the growing number of streaming apps on the market. And with the cost of goods and services at an all-time high, it’s hitting folks in the wallet as well.

The report additionally found that the average American has two streaming subscriptions, and watches three hours and 49 minutes of content each day. More than a quarter of subscribers – 26.5 percent – share subscriptions with others to save on cost although with recent crackdowns on password sharing, that might not be an option for much longer.

As such, Reviews recommends downsizing the number of subscriptions you pay for each month or spending more time using free services if you’re looking to cut down on costs in the New Year. For example, you could stagger subscriptions by signing up for a service temporarily to watch a specific show or movie and canceling when you are finished. It’s also wise to keep an eye out for free trials, discounts, and limited-time streaming deals like those occasionally offered from Internet and mobile providers.

I’m planning on cutting my live TV service in the next few weeks once college football wraps up and look forward to the extra savings each month.