If you’re trying to catch the latest NFL game, a new episode of 60 Minutes, or the nightly news, you might be asking yourself: “What is my local CBS channel?”
Unlike cable-only networks like ESPN or CNN, CBS is a broadcast network. This means the channel number changes depending on which city or county you live in. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to find your local CBS station, whether you’re using a digital antenna, cable, or a streaming service.
1. How to Find Your Local CBS Channel Number
Because CBS is broadcast by local affiliates, there is no single “CBS channel” across the United States.
Use the Official CBS Station Finder
The most reliable way to find your local station is to use the official tool:
- Go to the CBS Station Finder or the main CBS website.
- Enter your Zip Code.
- The site will provide the call sign (e.g., WCBS, KCBS) and the channel number for your area.
Common CBS Channel Numbers in Major Cities
If you live in a major metro area, here are the CBS channel numbers for some of the biggest markets:
- New York City: Channel 2 (WCBS)
- Los Angeles: Channel 2 (KCBS)
- Chicago: Channel 2 (WBBM)
- Philadelphia: Channel 3 (KYW)
- Dallas-Ft. Worth: Channel 11 (KTVT)
- San Francisco: Channel 5 (KPIX)
- Boston: Channel 4 (WBZ)
2. How to Watch CBS Without Cable
If you have “cut the cord,” you can still watch your local CBS station easily.
Digital Antenna (Free Over-the-Air)
CBS is broadcast over the airwaves. By plugging a digital HD antenna into your TV, you can pick up your local CBS affiliate for free in high definition.
- Pro Tip: Use a site like AntennaWeb to see where the nearest broadcast tower is and which direction to point your antenna.
Streaming Services
Most major live TV streaming services carry local CBS affiliates. These include:
- Paramount+: The “Premium” plan includes a 24/7 live stream of your local CBS station.
- YouTube TV: Includes local CBS in almost every US market.
- Hulu + Live TV: Provides local CBS coverage.
- FuboTV: Heavily focused on sports, it carries local CBS affiliates.
- DirecTV Stream: Offers local channels in most packages.
3. Why Can’t I Find My CBS Channel?
If you are having trouble locating the channel, it could be due to one of the following:
- Carrier Disputes: Occasionally, cable or satellite providers (like DISH or DirecTV) have contract disputes with the owners of local stations, causing the channel to be temporarily removed.
- Weak Signal: If you are using an antenna, physical obstructions like mountains or tall buildings might be blocking the signal.
- Rescan Required: If you use an antenna and recently lost the channel, try running a “Channel Scan” in your TV’s settings.
4. Popular Programming on CBS
Finding your local channel gives you access to some of the most-watched TV in the world, including:
- Sports: NFL on CBS (including the Super Bowl in certain years), NCAA March Madness, and PGA Tour golf.
- Primetime Hits: NCIS, Survivor, The Equalizer, Young Sheldon, and FBI.
- News & Late Night: CBS Evening News, 60 Minutes, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
Summary
To find your local CBS channel, the fastest method is to enter your zip code into the CBS Station Finder. Whether you choose to watch via a free digital antenna, a cable box, or a streaming app like Paramount+, you’ll never have to miss your favorite shows or the big game.
Are you trying to find CBS on a specific provider like Xfinity, Spectrum, or Dish? Let us know in the comments and we can help you find the exact digit!