Paramount Plus has confirmed a price increase set to take effect in January 2026. During its Q3 earnings call on November 10, 2023, the company disclosed that both subscription plans would see a rise of $1 per month. This announcement follows previous price hikes in Australia and Canada, marking the first such increase for the United States.
Effective January 17, 2026, the price for the Essentials plan will rise to $8.99 per month, while the Premium plan will cost $13.99 per month. The changes will also significantly impact the annual subscription fees. The Essentials plan will jump from $59.99 to $89.99 per year, representing an approximately 50% increase. Similarly, the Premium annual plan will increase from $119.99 to $139.99 per year.
Strategic Focus on Streaming and UFC Partnership
Paramount Skydance has emphasized that its Direct to Consumer (DTC) business, which encompasses both Paramount and Showtime, is a top priority for the upcoming year. The price increase is part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing the streaming service’s offerings. The company plans to invest the additional revenue into developing new original content for Paramount Plus.
A contributing factor to this price increase is Paramount’s recent agreement with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The company secured a seven-year deal worth $7.7 billion, starting in 2026. This partnership is expected to boost viewership and attract new subscribers, further justifying the price adjustment.
The upcoming changes may prompt potential subscribers to consider signing up for Paramount Plus before the new rates take effect. With the promise of additional original programming and exclusive content from the UFC, the platform aims to enhance its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving streaming landscape.
As Paramount Plus positions itself for growth, users will need to weigh the value of its offerings against the new pricing structure. With an increased focus on original content and high-profile partnerships, the service aims to deliver a more compelling experience for its audience.
