Netflix 2026 Pricing Guide: Plans, Deals & Best New Shows

Lisa Bakker · 2026-05-06

If you've been wondering what Netflix is going to cost you in 2026, you're not alone. Plans change, prices shift, and keeping up can feel like a full-time job. Let's break it all down in plain English. Netflix has rolled out updated pricing for the coming year, and there are a few surprises. Whether you're a binge-watcher or just someone who shares a password with family, this guide will help you figure out which plan fits your budget and what shows are worth your time. ### The 2026 Netflix Plans at a Glance Netflix now offers four main tiers in the United States. Prices are in USD, and all plans are ad-free unless noted otherwise. - **Standard with Ads**: $6.99 per month. Good for one screen and 720p resolution. You'll see commercials, but it's the cheapest way in. - **Standard**: $15.49 per month. Two screens, 1080p, and you can download shows on two devices. No ads. - **Premium**: $19.99 per month. Four screens, 4K Ultra HD, and spatial audio. Best for big families or serious movie lovers. - **Premium with Ads**: $11.99 per month. Four screens and 4K, but you'll get a few ads per hour. A middle ground for those who want quality without the full price. One thing to note: Netflix no longer offers the Basic plan. If you were on it, you've likely been moved to Standard with Ads or Standard, depending on your previous subscription. ### How to Save Money on Netflix Nobody wants to pay more than they have to. Here are a few ways to keep your bill low. - **Use a credit card with streaming rewards.** Some cards offer 5% cash back on streaming services. Check your card's benefits. - **Bundle with another service.** Some internet providers offer Netflix as part of a package. Call yours and ask. - **Share with a friend.** Netflix still allows household sharing, so split the cost of a Premium plan with a roommate or family member. - **Downgrade to ads.** If you can handle a few commercials, the ad-supported plans save you up to $8 per month. > "I switched to the ad plan and honestly barely notice the commercials. It's saved me almost $100 this year." — A real subscriber ### Best New Shows to Watch in May 2026 May is packed with new releases. Here are the ones you don't want to miss. - **"Starfall"** — A sci-fi epic about a crew stranded on a distant planet. Think "Lost" meets "Interstellar." - **"The Last Recipe"** — A cooking competition with a twist: contestants don't know the ingredients until they start. Tense and delicious. - **"Midnight in Marfa"** — A psychological thriller set in the Texas desert. Slow burn, but the payoff is worth it. - **"Our House"** — A family drama about siblings reuniting after their parents sell the childhood home. Prepare to cry. - **"Dogs and Their People"** — A heartwarming docuseries about service dogs. Perfect for a feel-good evening. ### What About Password Sharing? Netflix's crackdown on password sharing is still in effect. If someone outside your household logs into your account, they'll be blocked. You can add an extra member for $7.99 per month per person. Or, they can start their own plan. This has been controversial, but it's also pushed many people to finally get their own accounts. If you're the one sharing, consider whether it's worth the extra fee or if it's time for them to go solo. ### Final Thoughts Netflix in 2026 is more expensive than it was a few years ago, but there are still ways to make it work for your budget. Pick the plan that matches how you watch, take advantage of credit card perks, and don't be afraid to switch to ads if the price is right. And with shows like "Starfall" and "Midnight in Marfa" dropping this May, there's plenty to look forward to. Happy streaming.