Netflix may be one of the biggest streaming services, but it isn’t immune to criticism. Fans may find another thing to criticize now that Netflix has just announced some bad news for its subscribers: it’s increasing its monthly prices again, per DiscussingFilm.
In 2008, Netflix charged subscribers $9 a month to stream as many movies and shows as they wanted. By 2020, a two-tier plan was in plae: subscribers could spend $13.99 for a Standard subscription, while Premium members paid $17.99. Now, as of March 2026, the Standard With Ads plan costs $8.99 (up $1), Standard Without Ads Plan costs $19.99 (up $2), and a Premium Plan costs $26.99 (up $2).
It’s Another Cost Hit For Subscribers
This 2026 update marks Netflix’s second hike in a year: the service also put its prices up in early 2025. Prior to the 2025 increase, the Standard With Ads plan cost $6.99, the Standard plan cost $15.49, and the Premium tier cost $22.99.
For some time, the streaming giant has defended its choice to up costs by reasoning that the platform has a huge number of movies and shows to stream, and that increased prices allow Netflix to continue investing in new projects. The January earnings report indicated that Netflix predicted to spend approximately $20 billion on content throughout 2026.
5 Worst Netflix Movies Of 2022 (According To Rotten Tomatoes)
While Netflix often put out hits, it also released quite a few major duds this year.
However, many long-time subscribers voiced that these price increases actually don’t reflect higher-quality releases, with many explaining that the low-quality Netflix Originals can feel formulaic, while high-quality projects are abruptly canceled when they don’t produce enough immediate revenue. Fans often cite Shadow and Bone, The OA, and GLOW as some of Netflix’s most egregious cancelations.
When Netflix raises its prices, it hits viewers right in the wallet. Most users subscribe to multiple services, and when each streaming platform increases the costs, it undoubtedly leaves audiences questioning quality and the state of the industry.