Recently, TV viewership has decreased significantly, reflecting a broader trend in shifting entertainment consumption habits. With the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, audiences are increasingly moving away from traditional cable TV in favor of on-demand, ad-free content. Additionally, social media platforms and video-sharing sites such as YouTube have become major sources of entertainment.
This decline began around 2018-2019, although it was relatively small at first. However, between 2020 and 2021, the decline became more pronounced as social media platforms expanded and YouTube’s popularity grew.
The decrease in TV viewership can be attributed not only to the rise of social media but also to the increasing cost of subscription services. For example, Netflix now locks certain movies behind a premium subscription, meaning users must pay extra for access. Instead of paying a standard fee for all content, users now have to pay more for specific movies. A typical TV subscription can cost between $7.99 and $25 per month, and most streaming services have raised their prices by at least $1-5.
Personally, I still watch TV quite a lot, usually on Hulu and Netflix. I would say I watch more TV than spend time on social media daily. Watching TV helps me relax and pass the time, and I enjoy getting into different shows and movies. Social media doesn’t take up as much of my time because TV is simply more interesting to me. My favorite genres are documentaries and scary movies.
In conclusion, the decline in traditional TV viewership is part of a broader shift toward streaming platforms and social media for entertainment. Rising subscription costs and changes in content availability have contributed to this trend. While social media and YouTube are growing in popularity, TV remains a preferred choice for many, offering a relaxing way to enjoy shows and movies. The future of entertainment will likely continue to evolve as these habits change.