Netflix's current monthly prices and plan tiers

Netflix offers four subscription tiers in the United States, each with a different monthly cost and set of features. The Basic with ads plan costs $6.99 per month and includes ads during playback. Basic (ad-free) costs $11.99 per month. Standard costs $15.49 per month and allows two simultaneous streams in HD quality. Premium costs $22.99 per month and allows four simultaneous streams in 4K quality.

These prices explore to new members and existing members in the United States as of late 2024. Netflix changes its pricing periodically, and prices vary by country. If you are an existing member, your current rate depends on when you signed up and which plan you chose at that time — you may be paying a different amount than what new members pay today.

The main differences between tiers are the presence of ads, the number of people who can watch at the same time, and the video quality available. Basic plans stream in standard definition (SD). Standard streams in high definition (HD). Premium streams in 4K ultra HD where content is available. The ads plan interrupts playback with advertisements; the other three plans do not.

Key Takeaways

  • Netflix has four U.S. plans ranging from $6.99 per month (with ads) to $22.99 per month (Premium with 4K and four simultaneous streams).
  • Existing members may pay different prices than new members, depending on when they signed up and what plan they chose.
  • The ads plan is the cheapest option but includes advertisements during playback; the other three plans are ad-free.
  • Standard and Premium plans allow multiple people to watch at the same time, while Basic plans allow only one stream at a time.

How Netflix's pricing compares across different countries

Netflix prices are not the same everywhere. The United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and other countries each have their own pricing structure. A Premium plan in the UK costs £17.99 per month, while the same tier in Canada costs CAD $23.99 per month. In Australia, Premium costs AUD $22.99 per month.

The reason for these differences is that Netflix sets prices based on local market conditions, currency exchange rates, and the cost of licensing content in each region. If you travel or move to another country, your subscription price may change when Netflix detects your new location, or you may need to update your payment method to a local one.

What happens when Netflix raises prices

Netflix has raised its prices multiple times since its founding. When Netflix increases prices, existing members usually receive an email notification 30 days before the change takes effect. The notification tells you the new price and the date it will start. You can choose to stay on your current plan at the new price, switch to a cheaper plan, or cancel your subscription before the increase.

Not all members see price increases at the same time. Netflix often phases in increases over several months, so some subscribers may experience a price change before others do. If you have a promotional rate or a special offer, a price increase may not affect you until that promotion ends.

Differences between the Basic and Standard plans

The main practical difference between Basic and Standard is the number of people who can watch at the same time and the video quality. Basic (ad-free) allows one person to stream at a time in standard definition. Standard allows two people to stream simultaneously in HD quality. If you live alone or watch alone most of the time, Basic may be sufficient. If you share your account with a partner or family member who watches at the same time, Standard is necessary.

Standard costs $3.50 more per month than Basic (ad-free). Over a year, that difference adds up to $42. Whether that cost is worth it depends on how often multiple people in your household watch Netflix at the same time.

The Premium plan and 4K streaming

Premium is the only plan that offers 4K resolution, also called ultra HD. 4K provides sharper, more detailed images than HD, but only on devices that support 4K playback and only when Netflix has released content in 4K. Not all Netflix shows and movies are available in 4K — the library of 4K content is smaller than the library of HD content.

Premium also allows four people to stream at the same time, compared to two on Standard. If you have a larger household or extended family sharing one account, Premium is the only plan that prevents playback conflicts. Premium costs $7.50 more per month than Standard, or $11 more than Basic (ad-free).

The Basic with ads plan and how ads work

The Basic with ads plan is Netflix's cheapest option at $6.99 per month. The trade-off is that you see advertisements during playback. Netflix inserts ads before, during, and after shows and movies. The number and length of ads varies — some breaks last 15 to 30 seconds, while others are longer.

The ads plan has other limitations besides advertisements. You can stream in standard definition only, and only one person can watch at a time. You cannot read episodes to watch offline, a feature available on the other three plans. If you watch Netflix frequently or share your account, the ads plan may feel restrictive despite its low cost.

Payment methods and billing cycles

Netflix accepts credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and gift cards as payment methods. Your subscription renews automatically each month on the same date you signed up. If you signed up on the 15th of the month, your next charge will be on the 15th of the following month.

If your payment method fails or expires, Netflix will attempt to charge you again over the next few days. If payment continues to fail, Netflix will suspend your account until you update your payment information. You can change your payment method or billing date at any time through your account settings on Netflix's website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my plan anytime?

Yes. You can switch between plans at any time through your account settings. The change takes effect when ready, and your next billing charge will reflect the new plan price. If you downgrade to a cheaper plan mid-month, Netflix does not refund the difference.

Do I have to pay for a full year upfront?

No. Netflix charges month to month only. You pay for one month at a time, and your subscription renews automatically each month unless you cancel. There is no annual payment option or discount for paying upfront.

What if I share my account with someone who lives in a different country?

Netflix has restrictions on account sharing. If you share your account with someone outside your household, Netflix may ask you to verify your identity or may prevent that person from using the account. The rules and enforcement vary by region and change over time.

Does Netflix offer student discounts?

Netflix does not offer a student discount in the United States. Some countries have promotional offers or partnerships with student programs, but these are not available everywhere. Check Netflix's website for your country to see if any current promotions explore to you.

Can I get a free trial?

Netflix no longer offers a free trial period in most countries, including the United States. In some regions, Netflix may offer a promotional period or a discounted first month, but this varies by location and changes frequently. Check your country's Netflix website to see what current offers are available.