Digital Subscription Costs Surge Nearly 20% Since 2020

Americans face a mounting financial burden as digital subscription services cost significantly more today compared to six years ago. A recent analysis from DepositAccounts, an online platform owned by LendingTree that allows users to compare bank accounts, revealed this trend across 15 widely used subscription services including streaming platforms like Hulu and Spotify, video tools such as Zoom Pro, and entertainment apps.

The findings show that subscriptions now average $84 per month or $1,008 annually, representing a nearly 20% increase from when these services were priced in 2020. One-third of Americans have canceled at least one paid digital subscription over the past six months due to rising costs according to an independent survey conducted by DepositAccounts.

Disney+ stands out with its ad-free plan now costing $18.99 per month, which has more than doubled since 2020 when adjusted for inflation. This price hike occurred in September 2025 as the company upgraded and bundled Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN plans together.

Apple TV’s subscription costs have surged by nearly 108% from 2020 levels, reflecting a significant increase despite Nielsen reporting that streaming now accounts for approximately 48% of total TV viewership—outpacing broadcast and cable viewing segments. On the other hand, Apple’s iCloud storage service has seen its prices drop nearly 20%, while Apple Music has reduced in price by more than 12%.

These variations underscore the complex pricing landscape within digital subscription services, where some platforms have adjusted their rates to maintain profitability or capitalize on new features and offerings, while others like Apple Music and Apple’s iCloud continue to see reductions.