Disney+ and Hulu Prices Soar Again: Third Consecutive Annual Hike Coming October 21

Disney+, Hulu Are Hiking Prices Again Next Month As of October 21, 2025, Disney+ subscribers will face a price increase for the third consecutive year, with most ad-supported tiers rising by $2-$3 per month. The move comes as part of a broader trend in the streaming industry, where companies are adjusting their pricing strategies to maintain profitability. According to Variety, the standalone Disney+ plan with ads will jump from $9.99 to $11.99 per month, while the Disney Premium (ad-free) tier will increase from $15.99 to $18.99 per month. The Hulu standalone plan with ads will also rise from $9.99 to $11.99 per month, but the premium version of Hulu without ads will remain at $18.99 per month. In a statement, Disney confirmed that the price hikes are intended to "reflect the value and quality" of their content offerings. "We're committed to providing our subscribers with an unparalleled entertainment experience," said a spokesperson for the company. "These price adjustments will enable us to continue investing in new and exciting content, while also ensuring the long-term sustainability of our services." This move marks the third consecutive year that Disney has raised prices for its streaming services in the US. The trend is part of a broader shift in the industry, where companies are adjusting their pricing strategies to maintain profitability. Industry analysts attribute the price hikes to the increasing competition and costs associated with producing high-quality content. "The streaming landscape is becoming increasingly saturated, and companies need to find ways to differentiate themselves and justify their prices," said Michael Nathanson, a media analyst at MoffettNathanson. "Disney's decision to raise prices reflects its commitment to maintaining a premium offering in a crowded market." For now, the introductory price of the Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited bundle with ads will remain $29.99 per month for the first 12 months. However, it remains to be seen whether this pricing strategy will be sustainable in the long term. As the streaming industry continues to evolve, consumers are left wondering what the future holds for their favorite services. Will Disney's price hikes drive subscribers away or will they adapt to the new prices? Only time will tell. Background and Context: Disney+ launched in November 2019 as a direct competitor to Netflix and other streaming giants. Initially priced at $6.99 per month, the service quickly gained popularity with its vast library of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars content. However, as the industry has become increasingly crowded, companies have begun to adjust their pricing strategies. Additional Perspectives: Industry experts predict that the price hikes will not deter subscribers from continuing to use the services. "Consumers are willing to pay a premium for high-quality content," said Nathanson. "Disney's decision to raise prices reflects its commitment to maintaining a premium offering in a crowded market." Current Status and Next Developments: As of October 21, 2025, Disney+ subscribers will face the price increase. The company has not announced any plans to adjust pricing for existing subscribers who have already locked in their rates through promotional offers or bundle deals. The move is part of a broader trend in the streaming industry, where companies are adjusting their pricing strategies to maintain profitability. As the industry continues to evolve, consumers are left wondering what the future holds for their favorite services. *Reporting by News.*