ESPN to Raise Streaming Prices in September

ESPN plans to increase streaming prices for the first time since launching its new direct-to-consumer service last year. The costs for ESPN Select will rise to $13.99 per month or $139.99 per year, up from $12.99 per month/$129.99. Similarly, ESPN Unlimited will cost $31.99 per month/$319.99 per year, compared to $29.99 per month/$299.99.

These changes, effective September 17, will also affect ESPN Select bundles with Disney+ and Hulu, such as Disney Plus (with ads), Hulu (with ads), and ESPN Select at $21.99 per month/$209.99, an increase from $19.99 per month/$199.99. Disney Plus (ad-free), Hulu (ad-free), and ESPN Select will now be $32.99 per month/$329.99, up from $29.99.

Legacy Disney Plus (ad-free), Hulu (ad-free), and ESPN Select will cost $27.99 per month/$279.99, an increase from $24.99 per month/$249.99. ESPN's Unlimited plan covers all ESPN networks, ESPN+, studio shows, and over 47,000 live events, including major sports leagues and postseason coverage. ESPN Select, on the other hand, offers around 32,000 live events but lacks ESPN linear networks.

ESPN has integrated NFL Network and CW Sports content into its app and offers features like multiview, personalized "SportsCenter For You," and Verts vertical video feed. While Disney does not disclose ESPN streaming service profits or subscriber numbers, ESPN's digital and social engagement reached nearly 230 million unique fans in June, surpassing 80% of the U.S. internet population.

In Q2, Disney's sports segment saw an 8% increase in subscription and affiliate fees to $3.14 billion, with half the growth from the NFL Network acquisition. Ad revenue grew 5% to $1.2 billion. Disney plans to offer more ESPN games on Disney+ starting this fall, including college football simulcasts, to boost engagement and upsell subscribers to the bundled trio service.