Music streaming giant Spotify has announced another round of price hikes, making it one of the more expensive options on the market. Starting next month, individual Premium subscriptions will cost $12.99 per month, up from $11.99. Duo plans for two people have also increased to $18.99, while Family plans now sit at $21.99. Even student plans have seen a rise, from $5.99 to $6.99.
These adjustments follow Spotify's last price increase in June 2024, when individual rates jumped from $10.99 to $11.99. The company has now raised prices twice in the span of a year, though the increases remain more modest compared to video streaming services like Netflix or Disney+. For now, music-streaming costs are still relatively close to the $10-a-month benchmark that has been standard for over a decade.
But with these new rates, users may find themselves looking for alternatives. Is it worth switching? What other platforms offer comparable—or even better—value?
First, let’s consider why Spotify is raising prices. The company operates in a highly competitive market where user expectations for quality and features continue to grow. Higher subscription costs often reflect investments in better audio quality, exclusive content, and improved algorithms. However, for those who feel the pinch, there are indeed cheaper options available.
One notable alternative is Amazon Music Unlimited. For non-Prime members, the individual plan costs $11.99 per month, slightly below Spotify’s new rate. Prime members enjoy a discount, paying just $10.99. The service offers over 100 million songs, including lossless and high-resolution tracks, spatial audio, and one free audiobook per month via Audible. For families, the price jumps to $19.99.
Apple Music also presents a compelling choice, with individual plans at $10.99 per month—matching Spotify’s previous rate before the hike. Student plans are available for $5.99, and family plans cost $16.99. Apple’s catalog includes over 100 million songs, along with lossless audio, spatial audio, and Dolby Atmos support. Additionally, student subscribers get free access to Apple TV.
Tidal, another pioneer in high-quality music streaming, offers individual plans for $10.99 per month, with student plans at $5.49. Family plans are priced at $16.99. Tidal is known for its extensive library of lossless and high-resolution tracks, as well as early adoption of Dolby Atmos mixes. For an extra $9 per month, users can add the track-mixing DJ Extension to their Individual or Student plans.
YouTube Music Premium rounds out the list with individual plans at $10.99 per month and student plans at $5.49 for the first month free. Family plans cost $16.99. While YouTube Music doesn’t yet offer lossless audio, it remains a strong contender with its vast music library and integration with YouTube’s content.
So, is Spotify still worth the price? For those who value its extensive catalog, personalized playlists, and strong algorithm, the answer may be yes. But with alternatives offering similar or even better features at lower costs, it’s a decision that now comes down to priorities—quality, exclusivity, or simply saving a few dollars each month.
