Streaming isn’t just for the young anymore — it’s now a central part of how most Americans watch television, including older adults.
According to the Pew Research Center (mid-2025), about 83% of U.S. adults use streaming TV services. While it’s no surprise that younger groups lead the way, the majority of those aged 50–64 are streaming too. That means streaming has officially become a mainstream choice for people approaching or living in retirement.
The shift has been dramatic. Nielsen reports that in May 2025, streaming made up 44.8% of all TV viewing in the U.S. — for the first time ever, that’s more than the combined share of both broadcast and cable TV. This milestone signals a permanent change: the future of television is on-demand and internet-based.
But there’s more. Free, ad-supported streaming platforms — often called FAST services (Free Ad-Supported TV) — are booming. Channels like Pluto TV, Roku Channel, and Tubi now make up a growing portion of viewership. For older adults especially, these services are appealing because they offer familiar shows, movies, and even live news at no cost — just with ads. As subscription prices continue to climb, these free options are becoming a smart alternative.
Still, not everyone is binge-watching. Among adults 55+, streaming habits look different than younger generations. Many use services like Netflix, Prime Video, or Hulu weekly rather than daily. A recent YouGov survey found that about 35% of those 55+ say they watch Disney+ once a week. This shows that while streaming is widely adopted, older adults tend to use it more intentionally — picking their shows and settling in on their own schedule.
Internet + Streaming Bundles vs Free Alternatives (Sept 2025)
If you’re over 55, chances are your internet and streaming bill has slowly crept up over the years. Bundles that once looked like a deal — internet + TV + streaming — often climb past $150/month once promotions expire. Add in hidden fees, taxes, and premium add-ons, and the cost can be shocking.
The good news? Free and low-cost streaming options have never been better. With ad-supported services and smarter internet choices, many households are saving $50–$100 a month without missing the shows they love.
What’s Happening in 2025
Streaming price hikes: Most major platforms (Netflix, Disney+, Max, Hulu) now charge $15–$30/month for ad-free tiers.
Bundles aren’t always savings: By the time fees are added, bundles often match or exceed the cost of buying internet separately.
Free streaming is thriving: Services like Pluto TV, Tubi, and Roku Channel have millions of active users and now offer live news, classic shows, and movies — all supported by ads.
Savings Hacks for 55+
Audit your bill every 3 months: Look for “broadcast fees,” “regional sports fees,” or equipment rentals. These can add $20–$40 to your bill without adding value.
Downsize your internet speed: If you mostly stream, email, and browse, 50–100 Mbps is plenty. Many seniors unknowingly pay for 300+ Mbps they’ll never use.
Try ad-supported tiers: Switching to Disney+ or Hulu with ads can save 40–60% compared to premium.
Rotate subscriptions: Instead of paying for Netflix, Disney+, and Max all year, subscribe to one for a couple of months, then switch.
Add a digital antenna: For a one-time $30–$60 cost, you’ll get free access to local channels and news.
Use free streaming apps: Pluto TV, Tubi, Freevee, and Roku Channel offer thousands of shows and movies at no cost.
Quick Trivia
The average U.S. household now spends over $100/month on streaming and cable combined — up nearly 25% since 2020.
Over 55% of adults 55+ say they only regularly use 1–2 streaming services — yet many pay for 4 or more.
Local news is still free over-the-air with an antenna — no subscription required.
Bundles aren’t always bad, but they’re rarely as cheap as they look. For most households 55+, mixing a smaller internet plan with 1 paid service + free apps is the sweet spot. That’s real savings, without giving up your favorites.
Friends,
Streaming should bring joy, not stress about the bill. With a little awareness — checking your plan, trimming extras, and trying free options — you can keep the shows you love and put hundreds of dollars back into your pocket each year.
“It’s not about having less — it’s about paying only for what you truly use.”
With care,
Mike Bridges
Founder, The O55 Report
That’s it for this week.
Keep an eye on your bills, explore the free options, and remember: small changes in how we watch can lead to big savings over time. Entertainment should add joy to life — not stress to your wallet.
New here? Start with our Streaming & Savings Guide on The O55 Report and see how to cut costs without missing your favorite shows.