Spotify to Increase U.S. Subscription Prices in Early 2026
Spotify, the renowned music streaming service, is reportedly preparing to raise its subscription prices in the United States during the first quarter of 2026. This anticipated adjustment would mark the first price increase for U.S. subscribers since June 2024.
In June 2024, Spotify increased the cost of its Premium individual plan in the U.S. from $10.99 to $11.99 per month. The upcoming price hike is expected to follow a similar pattern, potentially adding an additional $1 to the monthly fee. Analysts at JPMorgan estimate that such an increase could boost Spotify’s annual revenue by approximately $500 million. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2025/11/25/spotify-to-raise-us-prices-in-first-quarter-of-next-year-report-says/?utm_source=openai))
This move aligns with Spotify’s recent global pricing strategy. In August 2025, the company raised subscription fees in various international markets, including Europe, South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and the Asia-Pacific region. For instance, in these regions, the monthly fee increased from €10.99 to €11.99 (approximately $13.82). ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/business/spotify-raise-us-prices-first-quarter-next-year-ft-reports-2025-11-24/?utm_source=openai))
The decision to implement price increases is influenced by several factors. Major record labels have been advocating for higher subscription fees, arguing that current prices have not kept pace with inflation and remain lower compared to video streaming services like Netflix. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2025/11/25/spotify-to-raise-us-prices-in-first-quarter-of-next-year-report-says/?utm_source=openai)) Additionally, Spotify aims to enhance its profitability and sustain growth amidst a competitive streaming landscape.
Despite previous price hikes, Spotify has continued to experience robust user growth. In the third quarter of 2025, the platform reported 713 million monthly active users and 281 million Premium subscribers. However, the company faced challenges with monetization, as Premium revenue per user declined by 4%, and ad-supported revenue decreased by 6% compared to the previous year. ([techtimes.com](https://www.techtimes.com/articles/312960/20251125/spotify-premium-us-set-price-hike-first-quarter-2026-report.htm?utm_source=openai))
The anticipated U.S. price increase is also set against the backdrop of significant leadership changes within the company. Longtime CEO Daniel Ek is preparing to transition into an executive chair role, with Gustav Söderström and Alex Norström slated to assume leadership positions early next year. ([techtimes.com](https://www.techtimes.com/articles/312960/20251125/spotify-premium-us-set-price-hike-first-quarter-2026-report.htm?utm_source=openai))
As Spotify continues to adjust its pricing strategy, subscribers are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming changes and consider how these adjustments may impact their streaming experience.
