Netflix Price Increase 2025: How to Cancel and Find Cheaper Alternatives

Netflix has done it again—another Netflix price increase in 2025 that's pushing monthly costs to unprecedented levels. With the Standard plan now costing $15.49 and Premium hitting $19.99, many subscribers are asking: "Is Netflix still worth it?" This comprehensive guide shows you exactly how to cancel your Netflix subscription and discover 10 superior alternatives that offer better value.

Why Netflix Isn't Worth It Anymore

The Content Quality Decline

Despite higher prices, Netflix's content strategy has shifted dramatically:

• Quantity Over Quality: More low-budget content, fewer blockbusters
• Shorter Series Runs: Most shows canceled after 1-2 seasons
• Lost Licensed Content: Major movies and shows moved to other platforms
• Regional Restrictions: Content varies significantly by location
• Ad-Supported Tiers: Paying for ads on a premium service

The Math Doesn't Add Up

At $19.99/month for Premium, Netflix costs $239.88 annually. For that price, you could get:

• Hulu + Disney+ + ESPN+ Bundle ($14.99/month)
• Amazon Prime Video ($8.99/month)
• Apple TV+ ($6.99/month)
• Total: $30.97/month for three services vs. $19.99 for one

How to Cancel Netflix (Step-by-Step)

Important Cancellation Notes:

• You can still watch until your current billing period ends
• Your account remains active until the paid period expires
• Download any content you want to keep before cancellation
• Netflix may offer retention deals—don't accept unless genuinely valuable

10 Better Netflix Alternatives for 2025

Smart Streaming Strategies for 2025

The Rotation Method

Instead of maintaining multiple subscriptions year-round, rotate based on content releases:

• Q1: HBO Max for prestige dramas
• Q2: Disney+ for Marvel/Star Wars releases
• Q3: Amazon Prime for fall premieres
• Q4: Apple TV+ for award season content

The Bundle Optimization

Look for legitimate bundles that offer multiple services:

• Verizon Unlimited plans (include Disney+ and Hulu)
• T-Mobile plans (include Netflix and Apple TV+)
• Student discounts (50% off most streaming services)
• Annual plans (often 15-20% cheaper than monthly)

Calculating Your Streaming Savings

Netflix vs. Alternative Comparison

Current Netflix Cost: $19.99/month ($239.88/year)

Optimized Alternative:

• Disney+ Bundle: $14.99/month
• Apple TV+: $6.99/month
• Free services: $0/month
• Total: $21.98/month ($263.76/year)
• Additional Value: 4 services vs. 1 for $24 more annually

Maximum Savings Approach

• Rotate 2 paid services: $12-16/month
• Use free services: Tubi, Crackle, YouTube
• Library DVDs and digital rentals for new releases
• Annual Savings: $100-150 vs. Netflix Premium

What to Do After Canceling Netflix

Immediate Steps:

1. Download any saved content before cancellation takes effect
2. Export your "My List" for reference
3. Set up your chosen alternative services
4. Update your streaming budget in your expense tracker

Long-term Strategy:

• Track your streaming spending with apps like SubTracker
• Review your streaming portfolio quarterly
• Take advantage of free trial periods strategically
• Consider sharing family plans with trusted friends/family

The Future of Streaming

The streaming landscape is rapidly evolving:

• More Fragmentation: Content spread across more platforms
• Higher Prices: All services increasing costs annually
• Ad-Supported Tiers: Becoming the new "standard"
• Bundling Wars: Companies creating mega-bundles

Conclusion

The Netflix price increase in 2025 is the perfect opportunity to reassess your streaming strategy. With so many quality alternatives available—many at lower costs—there's no reason to accept Netflix's inflated pricing for diminishing value.

By canceling your Netflix subscription and strategically choosing alternatives, you can maintain or even improve your entertainment options while saving money. The key is being intentional about your choices rather than defaulting to the most expensive option.