A tracking analysis of nine major streaming services shows steep price increases over the past five years, with the combined cost rising from $95.91 per month in March 2021 to $154.41 today—a 61% increase that amounts to $702 more annually.
According to HonestlyRanked, the nine services examined are Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, Apple TV+, Paramount+, Peacock, YouTube Premium, and Spotify. At 2021 pricing, these services cost $1,150.92 per year. Today, the same nine services at their standard tiers cost $1,852.92 annually, with no services cancelled or downgraded to produce the difference.
Price increases have varied significantly across providers. Apple TV+ saw the largest percentage increase at 200%, moving from $4.99 to $14.99 monthly. Disney+ Premium (ad-free) rose 138%, from $7.99 to $18.99. Peacock Premium Plus (ad-free) doubled, increasing from $9.99 to $19.99. Other notable increases include Hulu No Ads up 58% to $18.99, Netflix Standard up 43% to $19.99, and Paramount+ Premium up 40% to $13.99. HBO Max Standard (ad-free) saw the smallest increase at 23%, rising from $14.99 to $18.49, while YouTube Premium increased 33% and Spotify Premium increased 30%.
The analysis notes that price increases have become regular occurrences rather than exceptional events, with several services raising prices multiple times within a single year. Each price change in the tracking database is dated and linked to its source, according to the analysis.
The data reflects published pricing only and does not account for variations based on regional pricing, promotional offers, or tier-specific features beyond standard pricing tiers. The steep cumulative increases underscore the growing cost for consumers maintaining subscriptions across multiple streaming platforms.
Key facts
- Nine major streaming services increased from $95.91 to $154.41 per month between March 2021 and today
- Annual cost for these nine services rose from $1,150.92 to $1,852.92—a $702 yearly increase
- Apple TV+ saw the largest increase at 200%, followed by Disney+ at 138% and Peacock at 100%
- Netflix Standard increased 43%, Hulu No Ads increased 58%, and HBO Max increased 23%
- Price increases have become regular rather than exceptional, with some services raising prices multiple times per year