Spotify raises prices again in the U.K. as streaming costs climb worldwide
It makes one wonder if the U.S. would be next in line to receive yet another price bump.
Spotify is increasing its subscription prices in the U.K. for the second time in just 18 months, with similar hikes set to roll out in Switzerland.
Starting this month, the Individual Premium plan jumps from £11.99 to £12.99. Duo rises by a pound to £17.99, while Family plans go from £19.99 to £21.99. The Student tier remains unchanged at £5.99. In Switzerland, the individual plan moves from 13.95 to 15.95 CHF, or roughly $20.
Spotify says the price adjustments reflect “local market conditions and economic factors” as it continues to “enhance the value” of its platform, corporate speak for streaming is getting more expensive again.
Louis Eriakha
The move follows last year’s $1 increase in the U.S., where the Individual plan rose to $11.99 per month. Analysts say another American price hike could be on the way. According to J.P. Morgan, a similar U.S. bump could boost Spotify’s annual revenue by nearly $493 million.
But for artists, there’s less to celebrate. Spotify’s controversial decision to bundle audiobooks with music last year, a change that effectively lowered royalty payouts, continues to draw criticism from musicians and industry groups.
The takeaway
Spotify’s latest price hike highlights a wider trend in streaming. Platforms are chasing higher margins, while users keep paying more for what feels like the same experience. The real question is whether “enhanced value” will ever mean better pay for artists.
Emmanuel Umahi
