Streaming Revenue Triples Since 2020, Reaching $157 Billion in 2025 Amid Price Increases

Global streaming subscription revenue experienced significant growth in 2025, reaching over $157 billion according to research firm Ampere Analysis. This represents a 14% increase from the previous year and a tripling of revenue since 2020, when the industry generated approximately $50 billion. The United States accounted for half of all global streaming subscription revenue in 2025, with Netflix holding the largest market share at 14%. Multiple streaming platforms, including Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Apple TV, implemented price increases throughout the year, leading many consumers to switch to more affordable advertising-supported subscription tiers. Research from Deloitte indicates that approximately two-thirds of streaming subscribers now opt for ad-supported plans, reflecting a 20% increase from 2024. Lauren Liversedge, a senior analyst at Ampere Analysis, noted that the streaming market has shifted focus from subscriber growth to extracting greater value from existing audiences, particularly in competitive regions. Revenue from advertising tiers has grown substantially, rising from less than 5% of total streaming revenue in 2020 to 28% in 2025. When advertising revenue is included, streaming services generated approximately $177 billion globally last year. Ampere Analysis projects that subscription revenue will increase by another 29% over the next five years, potentially exceeding $200 billion worldwide by 2030. Advertising alone could contribute an additional $42 billion in annual revenue by that time. This trend toward ad-supported viewing extends beyond North America to Western European markets as well.