Trying to find the best cable TV provider in Chicago? You’re not just comparing channel counts. You’re navigating 2-year contracts, promotional prices that skyrocket, and the most confusing part of any Chicago TV bill: the dreaded Regional Sports Fee.
Whether you’re with Xfinity (Comcast) or Astound Broadband (RCN), you’re paying a premium just to watch Chicago sports. But what if you didn’t have to?
Before you sign another contract, let’s review the traditional providers and introduce our top-rated TV service for Chicagoans—a powerful, low-cost alternative that solves the “Chicago Sports Tax” problem.
Our Top-Rated TV Provider for Chicago (2025)
After comparing price, channel selection, and (most importantly) hidden fees, one service is the clear winner for value and content in the Windy City.
Editor’s Choice: TVPLUSSTREAM
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Pricing: Starts at $14.99/Month
Channels: 20,000+ (Live TV, Sports, Movies)
Highlights:
- No Contracts: Cancel anytime.
- No Hidden Fees: One flat, transparent monthly price.
- ALL Chicago Sports Included: Get Marquee Sports Network (Cubs) and the new Chicago Sports Network (CHSN) (Bulls, Blackhawks, White Sox) without the $20+ Regional Sports Fee.
- Massive VOD Library: Includes over 80,000+ on-demand movies and shows.
- Works on All Devices: Use on your Firestick, Smart TV, or phone.
Bottom Line: TVPLUSSTREAM provides more channels, all the local Chicago sports, and no hidden fees for a fraction of the price of Xfinity or Astound.
[Click Here to Get a Free Trial for TVPLUSSTREAM]
Traditional Cable & Satellite Providers in Chicago
If you still prefer a traditional bundle, here are the main providers you’ll find in the Chicago area.
1. Xfinity (Comcast)
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Pricing: $40 – $70/Month (Promotional rate)
Channels: 10+ to 185+
Highlights:
- Most widely available provider in Chicago.
- Access to the X1 TV platform.
- Cloud DVR included.The Catch: Requires a 1- or 2-year contract for the best pricing. Your bill will be significantly higher than the promo price due to a mandatory Broadcast TV Fee and the massive Regional Sports Fee (often over $20/mo) for Marquee and CHSN.
2. Astound Broadband (RCN)
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.5/5)
Pricing: $32 – $70/Month (Promotional rate)
Channels: 40+ to 200+
Highlights:
- Often cheaper than Xfinity for the first year.
- TiVo-powered DVR system.
- Also carries the new Chicago Sports Network (CHSN).The Catch: Less availability than Xfinity. Their prices also jump after the promo period, and they also charge a high, mandatory Regional Sports Fee.
3. DISH (Satellite)
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Pricing: $84.99/Month
Channels: 290+
Highlights:
- 2-year price guarantee (but requires a 2-year contract).
- Excellent Hopper 3 DVR.
- Good for areas where cable isn’t an option.The Catch: Requires a satellite dish. You are locked into a 2-year contract, and they have struggled with carrying regional sports networks in many markets.
4. DIRECTV (Satellite & Stream)
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Pricing: $69.99/Month (Promotional rate)
Channels: 150+
Highlights:
- The only way to get the “out-of-market” NFL SUNDAY TICKET package.
- Highly-rated Genie HD DVR.The Catch: Requires a 2-year contract for satellite service. Their plans are expensive, and they also charge one of the highest Regional Sports Fees in the industry.
The “Chicago Problem”: Why Your Cable Bill is So High
The number one complaint from Chicago TV subscribers is the mandatory Regional Sports Fee (RSF), which can add $20 – $25+ to your monthly bill.
Why? In Chicago, you have two major sports networks:
- Marquee Sports Network: The exclusive home of the Chicago Cubs.
- Chicago Sports Network (CHSN): The new (as of Oct 2024) home of the Chicago Bulls, Blackhawks, and White Sox.
Cable companies like Xfinity and Astound are forced to pay high fees to carry these channels. They pass that cost directly to you as a separate, non-optional fee, even if you never watch sports.
This is why TVPLUSSTREAM is our top pick. We include both Marquee and the Chicago Sports Network in our standard plan, all for one low price with no sports fees, ever.
Chicago TV Provider Comparison (2025)
| Provider | Starting Price* | Channels | Contract? | Chicago Sports Fee |
| TVPLUSSTREAM | $14.99/mo | 20,000+ | No | None |
| Xfinity | $40.00/mo | 125+ | Yes (1-2 Yrs) | Yes (High) |
| Astound (RCN) | $32.08/mo | 40+ | No | **Yes (High)D |
| DISH | $84.99/mo | 290+ | Yes (2 Yrs) | Yes |
| DIRECTV | $69.99/mo | 150+ | Yes (2 Yrs) | Yes (High) |
*Prices are introductory/promotional and do not include taxes, RSN fees, or box rental fees (except for TVPLUSSTREAM, which has none).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who are the best TV providers in Chicago, Illinois?
The main cable providers in Chicago are Xfinity and Astound Broadband (RCN). Satellite (DISH, DIRECTV) is also available. However, for the best value and channel selection without high fees, TVPLUSSTREAM is our top-rated choice.
Who is the cheapest TV provider in Chicago, Illinois?
Astound Broadband (RCN) often has the cheapest introductory plans for basic TV. However, for a full package with sports, TVPLUSSTREAM is the cheapest long-term option because it does not charge a $20+ Regional Sports Fee, box rental fees, or other hidden charges.
Are there any free TV providers in Chicago, Illinois?
The only 100% free TV is using a digital HD antenna, which will pick up local channels like ABC, CBS, NBC, WGN, and FOX. There are no free full cable providers. TVPLUSSTREAM offers a 24-hour free trial so you can test the full service for free.
How can I watch the Cubs, Bulls, and Blackhawks in Chicago?
To watch all three, you need two channels: Marquee Sports Network (Cubs) and the Chicago Sports Network (CHSN) (Bulls, Blackhawks, White Sox). All traditional cable and satellite providers will charge you a high “Regional Sports Fee” for these. TVPLUSSTREAM is our top pick because it includes both channels in its standard plan for no extra fee.
Is Spectrum available in Chicago?
No, Spectrum is not a primary cable provider within the city of Chicago. The main cable companies are Xfinity and Astound Broadband. Spectrum is available in other parts of Illinois.
