Cole Kan/CNET
Looking for ways to cut back on your budget? Start with your subscriptions.
Think about how much you're paying monthly for your Netflix, Amazon Prime and Instacart subscriptions alone. The costs can quickly add up. CNET's second annual subscription survey found that the average US adult spends $1,080 per year on subscriptions -- averaging to $90 per month.
Even more alarming, US adults are wasting nearly $200 a year on unused subscriptions. With prices remaining high and tariffs likely to push them higher, you may be able to find a few hundred dollars or more that can add a cushion to your budget.
Here's a deep dive into CNET's latest subscription survey findings and other ways to trim your subscription costs without missing out on your favorite TV show or meal kit delivery service.
Key takeaways Four out of five US adults (80%) have paid for one or more subscriptions in the past year. That's down 1% from last year.
US adults (80%) have paid for one or more subscriptions in the past year. That's down 1% from last year. Among those who have paid for subscriptions, the average total amount spent in the past year was $90 per month, which adds up to $1,080 per year. That's $1 less a month and $12 less a year than in 2024.
per month, which adds up to per year. That's $1 less a month and $12 less a year than in 2024. 61% of subscribers are rethinking their paid subscriptions because of the state of the economy -- 26% have already canceled a paid subscription.
of subscribers are rethinking their paid subscriptions because of the state of the economy -- have already canceled a paid subscription. On average, subscribers reported spending $17 a month for subscriptions they don't use, adding up to more than $200 a year.
Cole Kan/CNET
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