Disney+ Subscription Price to Increase Starting Next Month

The Walt Disney Company will raise prices for its Disney+ streaming service in October. The change affects both the ad-supported and premium ad-free tiers. This marks the third price hike for the service in three years.

Similar increases are planned for Hulu’s basic tier and ESPN+. The move reflects a broader industry trend as streamers focus on profitability. According to reports from Variety, the new pricing takes effect on October 21, 2025.

Breaking Down the New Subscription Costs

The Disney+ Premium plan (no ads) will increase by $3 per month. It will rise from $15.99 to $18.99. The basic Disney+ plan with ads will go from $9.99 to $11.99 monthly.

Hulu’s ad-supported tier will also see a $2 increase to $11.99. However, the price of Hulu without ads will remain at $18.99. ESPN+ will see a modest $1 increase, bringing its monthly cost to $12.99.

The annual subscription for Disney+ Premium will see a significant jump. It will increase from $159.99 per year to $189.99. This offers a saving compared to paying monthly but represents a higher upfront cost.

Strategic Shift Towards Bundles and Profitability

The price changes signal a strategic shift for Disney. The company is now prioritizing financial sustainability over rapid subscriber growth. This aligns with actions taken by competitors like Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery.

Notably, the price for the popular Disney Bundle trio (Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, all with ads) will remain unchanged at $29.99 per month. This encourages customers to opt for the bundled package, which improves retention. The standalone service hikes may push users toward this more stable bundle option.

This decision comes as the streaming market matures. Companies are seeking paths to consistent profitability after years of heavy investment. Price adjustments are a direct tool to boost revenue from the existing user base.

The latest Disney+ price increase underscores the new era of streaming, where value for consumers is increasingly balanced against the bottom line for providers.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: When do the new Disney+ prices start?

The new pricing takes effect on October 21, 2025. Subscribers will see the change on their next billing cycle on or after that date.

Q2: Is the Disney Bundle price changing?

The price for the Disney Bundle (Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ with ads) is not increasing. It will remain at $29.99 per month, making it a more attractive option.

Q3: How much more will Disney+ without ads cost?

The premium ad-free Disney+ plan is increasing by $3. The monthly cost will rise from $15.99 to $18.99 starting in October 2025.

Q4: Why is Disney raising prices again?

Disney, like other streamers, is focusing on achieving profitability. The price hikes are a direct method to increase revenue from its streaming operations.

Q5: Are there any plans that are not affected by the price increase?

Yes. The Disney Bundle with ads and the standalone Hulu Premium (no ads) plan will not see a price increase. Their rates will stay the same for now.