Netflix is raising subscription prices in many countries: Here’s what you’ll be paying now

Netflix announced subscription fee increases in the U.S., U.K., and Canada, affecting millions of users. The price hike supports the platform's efforts to expand services and produce original content.

The variations in pricing depend on the subscription level and geographical area. New customers will see the updated pricing right away, whereas current subscribers will be informed at least 30 days prior to their next billing cycle showing the changes. Here is an overview of the updated subscription prices according to details provided by official sources.

---

What are the updated subscription prices?

Screenshot of the pricing plan for Netflix USA (Image via help.netflix.com)

The following are the revised pricing details for subscribers in the United States (as detailed on the platform's support page under 'Plans and Pricing'):

• Basic plan: The Basic plan has been discontinued in the USA and Canada regions.
• Standard plan: The standard plan, which supports HD streaming on two devices simultaneously, will now cost $16.99 per month, up from $15.49.
• Premium plan: The premium tier, offering Ultra HD resolution and up to four simultaneous streams, will rise from $19.99 to $22.99 per month.

In Canada, the premium plan now costs CAD 22.99, an increase from CAD 20.99. In the UK, standard and premium tiers have risen by £2 monthly. Regional pricing adjustments have been tailored to local currencies and market conditions, as confirmed on their regional support pages.

---

Reasons behind the price hike

The Netflix logo (Image via Getty)

The official support page emphasizes the importance of investing in premium content and innovative features as primary factors for the price hike.

"As we continue to invest in programming and deliver more value for our members, we will occasionally ask our members to pay a little more so that we can re-invest to further improve Netflix," the company said in a statement published by CBS News on January 21, 2025.

The company's aim to produce unique content, like popular series such as Stranger Things and The Crown, as well as original movies like Extraction and The Irishman, demands significant financial investments. Moreover, this has broadened its emphasis to cover sectors such as live sports and gaming, which require substantial investment as well.

The competitive environment of the streaming industry also has an impact. With competitors like Disney+, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video vying for market share, the platform seeks to improve its services and uphold its dominance in the industry.

---

Implementation timeline, alternative plans, and customer considerations

Pricing Plans for Canada (Image via help.netflix.com)

New Netflix customers are already subject to updated prices, while existing subscribers will get at least 30 days' notice via email and in-app notifications. For budget-conscious users, an ad-supported tier is available, offering most of the content library with ads. However, this plan is no longer available in the U.S. and Canada.

Meanwhile, some customers may consider switching to alternative streaming services like Hulu, Disney+, or Amazon Prime Video, which provide competitive pricing and diverse content libraries.

---

Financial implications and Netflix’s outlook

Netflix (Image via Getty)

As reported by CBS News on October 18, 2023, Netflix’s revenue has increased markedly, in part due to initiatives such as implementing strategies to limit password sharing. The most recent price changes, as reported on the official support pages, are anticipated to enhance the company's profitability and continuous innovation.

Historically, the streaming platform has occasionally raised prices to keep pace with inflation and meet funding requirements for its initiatives. This boost in subscription prices follows the last increase in 2023, which coincided with the platform's initial crackdown on password sharing.

Furthermore, this move into live programming is tied to its efforts to expand commercial revenue streams while retaining its subscriber base and attracting new viewers. The present increase mirrors a comparable approach to maintain the company's operational objectives while responding to market needs.

Subscribers must determine if these varied offerings and user experience warrant the increased expenses. For individuals who appreciate its unique content and user-friendly interface, the platform continues to be a significant contender in the streaming market.

---

The streaming service reported gaining nearly 19 million subscribers during the holiday season.