LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — As streaming platforms become more popular, their prices are also rising. Customers are expecting another round of increases on several major streaming services, with some subscriptions approaching the cost of traditional cable TV.

Streaming, once a cost-effective alternative to cable, is becoming increasingly expensive. As we enter the new year, prices are expected to rise even further, impacting platforms like YouTube TV, Disney+ and Netflix.

When YouTube TV launched in 2017, it cost just $35 per month. Since then, prices have risen steadily – to $50 in 2019, $73 last year and expected to be $83 a month starting in 2025.

But YouTube TV isn’t the only service raising prices. In July, Peacock increased its premium subscription to $80 per year. Then in October, Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ – all owned by Disney – announced their price increases.

Meanwhile, Netflix users should also prepare for possible price increases in the coming year as the platform is expected to adjust its subscription prices again.

Streaming services expert Kelley Carter explains that these increases reflect a larger trend in the way we consume and pay for television.

“A few years ago they were looking for ways to reduce the cost of watching cable TV. The fact is, it costs more than ever and it almost doesn’t matter where you get your TV from,” says Carter.

Carter offers a few tips to help consumers manage the financial burden of streaming:

• Stream swapping: Maintain one subscription at a time and switch between services as needed.
• Explore free options: Check out free TV apps that can provide entertainment at no additional cost.
• Review your subscriptions: Regularly review your streaming plans to make sure they match your current viewing habits and interests.

As you plan your entertainment budget in 2025, it’s important to consider these upcoming price changes. Stay informed and explore alternatives to keep costs under control while still enjoying your favorite content.
YouTube TV: Price launched in 2017 at $35 per month, increased to $50 in 2019, $73 in 2023, and is scheduled to rise to $83 per month in 2025.

peacock: In July 2024, Peacock increased the price of its ad-supported plan from $5.99 to $7.99 per month and its ad-free plan from $11.99 to $13.99 per month.

Disney+: In October 2024, Disney+ increased its ad-free plan price from $10.99 to $13.99 per month.

Hulu: Also in October 2024, Hulu increased the price of its ad-free plan from $14.99 to $17.99 per month.

ESPN+: In October 2024, ESPN+ increased its subscription price from $9.99 to $10.99 per month.

Netflix: In October 2024, Netflix increased the price of its Premium plan from $19.99 to $22.99 per month.

Paramount+: In August 2024, Paramount+ increased the price of its Premium plan from $11.99 to $12.99 per month.

Max (formerly HBO Max): In June 2024, Max increased the price of its ad-free plans by $1 per month.

Sling TV: In February 2024, Sling TV increased the price of its Sling Blue plan from $40 to $45 per month and its Sling Orange + Blue plan from $55 to $60 per month.

Fubo TV: In February 2024, Fubo TV increased the price of its Pro plan from $75.99 to $79.99 per month.

Discovery+: In November 2023, Discovery+ increased its subscription price from $6.99 to $8.99 per month.

Apple TV+: In October 2023, Apple TV+ increased its subscription price from $6.99 to $9.99 per month.