HBO Max Increases Prices for Second Time in 18 Months

Get ready to dig a little deeper into your pocketbook for your favorite shows and movies. HBO Max has just announced a price increase across all of its subscription tiers, effective immediately.

If you’re on the Basic plan with ads, you’ll now be paying $10.99 a month, up from $9.99. The annual subscription has also gone up to $109.99 from $99.99.

Moving up to the Standard plan will run you $18.49 a month, a $1.50 increase from $16.99. The yearly subscription is also up $15 to $184.99.

For those who want it all with the Premium package, be prepared for a $2 bump to $22.99 a month. The yearly subscription will now cost you $229.99, a $20 increase from $20.99.

These price hikes went into effect immediately for new customers. If you’re an existing subscriber, you won’t see the change until you renew after Nov. 20. HBO Max will give you a 30-day heads-up before making the shift.

This isn’t the first time HBO Max has upped its prices. The ad-free tier increased in June 2024 right in time for House of the Dragon season two. But this is the first increase for the ad-supported tier, introduced in May 2021.

CEO David Zaslav recently mentioned that HBO Max was underpriced, pointing out the exceptional quality of the content. It looks like they’re seizing this opportunity to bring prices more in line with the value offered.

And it’s not just HBO Max. Other streaming services have also upped their prices recently, with Disney+ implementing a $2 increase today. So, if you’re sharing passwords to split costs, be aware that HBO Max is also cracking down on that. Looks like it’s time to start budgeting for your entertainment!