Paramount+ Announces U.S. Subscription Price Hike for Early 2026

Paramount Global has confirmed a price increase for its streaming service. The change will affect all U.S. subscribers. New rates will take effect in early 2026. This is the first major price adjustment for the platform in over a year.

The move aims to fund significant new content investments. Company leadership stated the hike is necessary to enhance the service’s value. This strategy mirrors recent actions by other major streaming competitors.

New Paramount+ Pricing Structure Detailed

The Paramount+ Essential plan, which includes ads, will rise by one dollar. Its new monthly cost will be $8.99. The ad-free Premium plan will also increase by the same amount.

The new Premium plan price will be $13.99 per month. Annual subscriptions are also seeing adjustments. The yearly Essential plan will cost $89.99, while the Premium tier rises to $139.99.

According to Reuters, the decision follows a challenging financial quarter for Paramount. Television advertising revenue fell sharply. Distribution fees from traditional cable also declined.

The company is focusing on content to compete with giants like Netflix. Investments will target new, buzzworthy television shows and films. The goal is to attract a broader, modern audience.

Streaming Market Adjustments and Consumer Impact

The streaming industry is consistently evolving. Price adjustments have become a common tactic to offset production costs. Paramount’s strategy aligns with this broader trend.

For consumers, this means higher monthly entertainment bills. However, the company promises a more robust content library in return. The success of this trade-off will be seen in future subscriber numbers.

The confirmed Paramount+ subscription price increase will begin on January 15, 2026. Subscribers will be notified directly before the change takes effect. This move signals a continued focus on content growth within a competitive market.

Info at your fingertips

When do the new Paramount+ prices start?

The new subscription rates will officially begin on January 15, 2026. This gives current subscribers several months at the existing price. Billing cycles will reflect the change after this date.

How much will Paramount+ cost?

The ad-supported Essential plan will cost $8.99 per month. The commercial-free Premium plan will be $13.99 monthly. Annual plans will be $89.99 and $139.99, respectively.

Why is Paramount+ raising its prices?

The company stated it needs to support ongoing investments in new content. This includes funding for original series, movies, and exclusive sports. The funds are intended to improve the platform’s competitive standing.

Will there be new content added to the service?

Yes, Paramount has committed to increasing its content investment. Subscribers can expect a larger library of original shows and films. The strategy focuses on attracting and retaining a modern audience.

How does this compare to other streaming services?

The new prices place Paramount+ in a mid-range position among competitors. It remains less expensive than the premium ad-free tiers from Netflix and Max. The increase reflects a common industry pattern.

Trusted Sources

Variety, Reuters, Associated Press