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The Largest Streaming Services in the United States (2026 Update)
As we move further into 2026, the trend of “cutting the cord” has become even more prevalent. With advancements in technology and an ever-growing array of streaming options, accessing movies, TV shows, and live broadcasts via the internet has never been easier.
The streaming services market continues to evolve, featuring both established giants and emerging competitors. Below, we provide an updated list of the 15 largest streaming services in the U.S., ranked by subscriber count.
15 Largest Streaming Services in the U.S.
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Netflix. Los Gatos, California
Number of Subscribers: 230 million (2026)
Netflix remains the leading name in streaming, having transitioned from its origins as a DVD rental service in 1998 to a global streaming powerhouse. As of early 2026, Netflix boasts approximately 230 million subscribers across over 190 countries, providing a vast library that includes more than 15,000 titles and 1,800 original productions. Despite increasing competition, Netflix retains a strong market share, holding about 18% of the world’s digital streaming subscriptions.
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Prime Video Amazon. Seattle, Washington
Number of Subscribers: 160 million (2026)
Part of Amazon’s extensive subscription offerings, Prime Video has garnered a significant user base since its launch as Amazon Unbox in 2006. As of 2026, it serves around 160 million subscribers, providing access to over 12,000 movies, TV shows, and exclusive Amazon Originals.
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Disney Plus. Burbank, California
Number of Subscribers: 120 million (2026)
Launched in late 2019, Disney Plus has quickly risen to prominence, amassing approximately 120 million subscribers by 2026. The platform offers a diverse array of ad-free content, including titles from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and more, along with original programming.
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Number of Subscribers: 50 million (2026)
Hulu, one of the pioneers in streaming live TV alongside on-demand content, boasts around 50 million subscribers as of 2026. The platform offers a variety of subscription options, including ad-free viewing and bundles with Disney Plus and ESPN Plus, reflecting its strategic positioning under The Walt Disney Company.
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Peacock. New York, New York
Number of Subscribers: 40 million (2026)
Since its launch in July 2020, Peacock has continued to grow, reaching around 40 million subscribers by 2026. The platform offers a mixture of free and premium content, including live sports, news, and original programming.
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YouTube Premium. San Bruno, California
Number of Subscribers: 30 million (2026)
YouTube Premium provides subscribers with an ad-free experience, exclusive original content, and access to YouTube Music. As of 2026, it has approximately 30 million subscribers, reflecting its appeal as a versatile entertainment platform.
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CuriosityStream. Silver Spring, Maryland
Number of Subscribers: 15 million (2026)
Focused on non-fiction content, CuriosityStream has grown to about 15 million subscribers by 2026. The platform offers a range of documentaries and educational programming, appealing to viewers interested in learning and discovery.
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HBO. Burbank, California
Number of Subscribers: 15 million (2026)
HBO Max, which launched in 2020, continues to thrive with approximately 15 million subscribers in 2026. This platform features a robust library of HBO’s acclaimed series and Warner Bros. films, along with original programming.
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Number of Subscribers: 15 million (2026)
As a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, ESPN Plus has maintained around 15 million subscribers as of 2026. The platform specializes in live sports, exclusive shows, and pay-per-view events, enhancing its appeal to sports fans.
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Discovery. Silver Spring, Maryland
Number of Subscribers: 12 million (2026)
Discovery Plus has reached approximately 12 million subscribers since its U.S. launch in early 2021. The service features a broad selection of content from various Discovery networks, along with original programming.
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Apple TV Plus. Culver City, California
Number of Subscribers: 15 million (2026)
As of 2026, Apple TV Plus has approximately 15 million subscribers. This platform emphasizes original content, featuring high-profile productions and collaborations with renowned creators and actors.
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CBS. New York, New York
Number of Subscribers: 10 million (2026)
Rebranded as Paramount Plus, this platform has approximately 10 million subscribers and offers a mix of live TV, original content, and a library of classic shows and films from ViacomCBS.
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YouTube TV. San Bruno, California
Number of Subscribers: 5 million (2026)
YouTube TV allows subscribers to stream a variety of live TV channels along with on-demand content. With around 5 million subscribers in 2026, it continues to serve as a popular alternative to traditional cable.
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Sling TV. Englewood, Colorado
Number of Subscribers: 3 million (2026)
Sling TV, designed as a cable alternative, has around 3 million subscribers as of 2026. It offers flexible subscription packages, allowing users to customize their channel lineup.
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Philo. San Francisco, California
Number of Subscribers: 1 million (2026)
Philo continues to attract a niche audience with approximately 1 million subscribers as of 2026, offering an affordable streaming option with a focus on entertainment and lifestyle channels.
Find CuriosityStream Jobs Near Me
As the streaming industry continues to mature, these platforms are adapting to shifting viewer preferences and technological advancements. Today’s consumers demand not only a variety of content but also flexible viewing options, including ad-supported choices and exclusive originals. The growth of these streaming services reflects a broader transformation in how audiences consume entertainment, marking a significant departure from traditional cable television.
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Author
Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.
