YouTube TV Raises Prices Again, Now $83 Per Month
As the cost of cutting the cord continues to climb, YouTube TV has announced yet another price increase.
Google revealed on Thursday that the streaming service's monthly subscription will rise to $82.99, up $10 from the previous $72.99. The new rate is effective immediately for new customers and will roll out to most existing subscribers starting January 13.
This adjustment means an annual subscription to YouTube TV now totals $995, a far cry from its 2017 debut price of $34.99 per month. This increase places YouTube TV on par with Hulu + Live TV in terms of cost.
Rising Costs Amid Competitive Offerings
In its announcement, Google cited “the rising cost of content” as the reason for the price hike. The company acknowledged the impact on users but emphasized the value of features like unlimited DVR storage, multiview, and a wide library of on-demand content.
“YouTube TV remains committed to changing the way we watch live TV,” the company stated in an email to subscribers.
While YouTube TV continues to offer live TV and local programming, it has also lost content over the years, including the MLB Network, which has frustrated sports fans.
Cord-Cutting No Longer a Bargain?
The steady rise in streaming costs has left many subscribers questioning whether cord-cutting still offers financial savings over traditional cable.
One social media user sarcastically noted:
“I’m so glad I ditched my $89/month cable package in 2018, only to now pay $83/month for YouTube TV, plus subscriptions to Netflix, Disney+, Paramount+, Prime, Apple TV+, and Max.”
A Broader Trend
YouTube TV isn’t alone in raising prices. Services like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Max have all implemented similar increases in recent years. The trend reflects growing content costs and intense competition in the streaming industry.
For more on navigating the ever-changing streaming landscape, check out our latest rankings of major streaming services.
