Ever settled in for a movie night, only to wonder if you’re paying too much for your streaming? You’re not alone. With prices changing and new plans emerging, many people search for “how much is Netflix a month” every year. Now that we’re into 2026, it’s a great time to break it all down.
Netflix remains one of the largest streaming services available. It has a massive library of shows, movies, originals, and even live events. But the cost matters. In this guide, we’ll cover the current Netflix subscription prices in the US, what each plan offers, recent changes, and tips to save money. Whether you’re a new subscriber or thinking about upgrading, you’ll know exactly how much Netflix costs per month in 2026.
Current Netflix Prices in 2026 (US)
As of early 2026, Netflix has three main plans in the United States. Prices went up in 2025, so these are the latest numbers straight from Netflix:
- Standard with Ads: $7.99 per month
- Standard: $17.99 per month
- Premium: $24.99 per month
Taxes aren’t included—they vary by state. The old Basic plan is gone for new users, but some longtime members might still have it.
These prices reflect Netflix’s push for more revenue after cracking down on password sharing and adding ads. The cheapest Netflix plan in 2026 is still the ad-supported one at $7.99, which is a solid entry point for casual viewers.
Here’s a quick look at how the plans stack up:
Breaking Down the Netflix Plans: What You Get
Not sure which plan fits you? Let’s look at each one closely. Each has different features around ads, video quality, streams, and downloads.
Standard with Ads ($7.99/month)
This is the cheapest Netflix plan in 2026. It’s perfect if you’re okay with a few commercials.
- Ads on most content (a handful of titles aren’t available due to licensing)
- 2 devices streaming at once
- Full HD (1080p) quality
- Downloads on 2 devices
- Access to the full library, games, and live events
Pros: Super affordable, great for solo viewers or couples. Ads aren’t too bad—usually 4-5 minutes per hour. Cons: No 4K, and ads can interrupt the vibe.
Here’s an example of how ads appear while streaming:
Many people stick with the Netflix with ads plan price because it keeps costs low without losing much.
Standard ($17.99/month)
The middle option goes ad-free and stays popular for small households.
- No ads
- 2 simultaneous streams
- Full HD (1080p)
- Downloads on 2 devices
- Option to add one extra member (someone outside your household) for $6.99 (with ads) or $8.99 (without ads)
This is the sweet spot for most people. The Netflix standard plan price jumped to $17.99 after the 2025 increase, but you get uninterrupted viewing and decent quality.
Premium ($24.99/month)
The top tier for serious streamers or bigger families.
- No ads
- 4 simultaneous streams
- Ultra HD (4K) + HDR/Dolby Vision
- Spatial audio for immersive sound
- Downloads on 6 devices
- Add up to 2 extra members for $6.99–$8.99 each
If you have a 4K TV or multiple people watching at once, the Netflix premium plan cost per month feels worth it. Here’s what 4K streaming looks like on a big screen:
It’s the priciest, though, at $24.99.
Recent Netflix Price Changes: What Happened Leading into 2026?
Netflix doesn’t shy away from raises. The last big one hit in 2025, bumping:
- Ads plan from $6.99 to $7.99
- Standard from $15.49 to $17.99
- Premium from $22.99 to $24.99
No new Netflix price increase in 2026 has been announced yet, but the company often adjusts based on content costs and market shifts. They’ve added big exclusives and live sports, which helps justify the hikes for many.
If you’re wondering about a Netflix price increase in 2026, keep an eye on their earnings calls. For now, these are the current rates.
How Much Does Netflix Cost a Month Around the World?
Prices vary a lot by country. Here’s a quick look (approximate, in local currency converted to USD):
- Canada: Ads ~$5.50 USD, Standard ~$12.50, Premium ~$18.50
- UK: Ads ~$6.30 USD, Standard ~$14.50, Premium ~$22.50
- India: Starts as low as ~$2 USD for mobile-only, up to ~$8 for Premium
- Turkey/Argentina: Often under $5 USD for higher plans due to local pricing
If you’re traveling or tech-savvy, some use VPNs to sign up in cheaper countries. It’s against Netflix’s terms, though, and they crack down sometimes. Proceed with caution.
How to Get Netflix Cheaper in 2026
Want to lower your bill? Here are practical ways:
- Pick the ads plan — Save $10 compared to Standard.
- Add extra members — Better than separate accounts if sharing.
- Look for deals — Gift cards on sale or carrier bundles (like T-Mobile sometimes).
- Share wisely — Premium allows 4 streams + extras.
- Downgrade when needed — Easy to switch plans.
- Bundle with others — Some services include Netflix, like certain Verizon plans.
The cheapest way to watch Netflix legally is the $7.99 ads tier. For deals like region-switching, it’s risky but popular in high-cost areas.
Is Netflix Still Worth It in 2026?
With prices up, you might wonder. Netflix has over 300 million subscribers worldwide for good reasons:
- Huge library: Classics, new releases, award-winning originals like Stranger Things or Squid Game sequels
- Live events: Sports, comedy specials
- Great recommendations and profiles
- Offline downloads
Here’s a glimpse at some of the popular Netflix originals that keep people hooked:
Compared to Disney+ ($9.99–$15.99) or Max ($9.99–$19.99), Netflix’s content depth often wins. If you watch a lot, the Netflix monthly cost 2026 pays off. Light viewers might prefer cheaper options or free services.
Alternatives to Consider
If Netflix feels too pricey:
- Free options: Tubi, Pluto TV (ad-supported)
- Cheaper paid: Hulu with ads ($7.99), Paramount+ ($5.99+)
- Bundles: Disney+/Hulu/ESPN+ for $16.99
Many mix services or rotate subscriptions.
FAQ
How much is Netflix a month with ads in 2026?
The Standard with Ads plan is $7.99 per month in the US. It’s the cheapest Netflix plan in 2026.
What is the Netflix standard plan price now?
It’s $17.99 per month for ad-free viewing on 2 devices in Full HD.
How much does the Netflix Premium plan cost per month?
Premium runs $24.99 per month, with 4K, 4 streams, and more.
Has there been a Netflix price increase in 2026?
Not yet in early 2026. The last hike was in 2025.
How much does Netflix cost a month in the US compared to other countries?
US prices are higher—$7.99 to $24.99—while places like India start under $3 equivalent.
What’s the cheapest way to get Netflix?
Go for the $7.99 ads plan, or share a Premium account with extra member slots.
Can I still get the old Basic plan?
No, it’s discontinued for new subscribers.
Does Netflix offer annual plans or discounts?
No yearly discounts, but watch for promo gift cards.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Netflix Plan for You
So, how much is Netflix a month in 2026? It ranges from $7.99 with ads to $24.99 for Premium in the US. Prices have climbed, but so has the content. Pick based on your watching habits—ads for budget, Premium for families, or 4K fans.
The current Netflix subscription price works for millions because of the unmatched variety. Check your account today and see if you’re on the best plan. Or head to Netflix.com to compare options yourself. Happy streaming!
