*Major record labels are reportedly calling on streaming platforms to increase subscription costs, with Spotify preparing a U.S. pricing update in the first quarter of 2026. This comes amid broader concerns about the sustainability of streaming revenue and competitive pressures from other media services.
According to the Financial Times, analysts and industry reports indicate that Spotify’s next U.S. price adjustment will continue the trend of gradual increases seen in international markets such as the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Australia. The last U.S. hike raised the monthly subscription to $11.99 from the $9.99 launch rate more than a decade ago. Record labels argue that current fees lag behind inflation and do not reflect the growing value of digital content.
Growth in the global music market is also slowing after years of strong expansion. The Financial Times cites IFPI data showing that revenue increases last year were only half as large as the previous year.
The top music streaming services in the U.S. include Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music Unlimited, YouTube Music, and Tidal. Pricing has seen increases across most platforms in recent years, with individual plans generally ranging from $10.99 to $12.99 per month. As of late 2025, Spotify charges $11.99 for its Premium individual tier, while Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Tidal subscribers are billed $10.99. Amazon Music Unlimited remains the most flexible: Prime members pay $9.99, while non-Prime subscribers are billed $10.99.
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Spotify’s planned price increase is expected to boost the company’s revenue. JPMorgan analysts reportedly projected that a one-dollar rise per month could generate an additional $500 million annually.
“We will act when the time is right for each specific market, and we’ll do it at the appropriate price based on those market dynamics,” Alex Norström reportedly stated during an earnings call. In September, Spotify revealed that cofounder Daniel Ek will step down as CEO on January 1, 2026
Norström and Gustav Söderström will take over leadership roles following Ek’s departure.
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