ESPN Unlimited Is Celebrating Its First Anniversary With a Price Hike

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ESPN Unlimited, the streaming service aiming to be your one-stop shop for sports content, is celebrating its first anniversary with a price increase. While the platform has expanded its offerings significantly since launch, this news might leave some subscribers wondering if the value proposition still holds up. Let’s dive into what’s changing and why.

The Price Increase Breakdown

According to ESPN’s official support page, both ESPN Select and ESPN Unlimited are getting a price bump starting September 17th. ESPN Unlimited plans will see a $2 increase, while ESPN Select plans get a smaller $1 hike. Existing Disney+ bundles including ESPN Select will also be affected, although the good news is that ESPN Unlimited bundles appear to be spared from this particular price adjustment.

A Look Back: The Launch of ESPN Unlimited

ESPN Unlimited first launched almost exactly a year ago, in August 2025. It was positioned as a particularly inclusive sports streaming service, aiming to consolidate various leagues and content under one roof. At the same time, ESPN Select debuted, effectively replacing ESPN+ and automatically migrating existing subscribers. This move aimed to streamline the ESPN experience for viewers.

Since its initial launch, ESPN has steadily expanded its content library. Notably, MLB.tv was integrated into the ESPN app starting with the 2026 season, and a sublicensing deal with The CW broadened the service’s roster of college sports offerings. More recently, ESPN acquired NFL media assets, leading to the availability of NFL Network for Unlimited plan subscribers on July 30.

While the price increase on standalone ESPN plans is now in effect for new subscribers, it’s worth noting that the Disney+ bundle with ESPN Select has already seen a similar adjustment. The fact that ESPN Unlimited bundles are currently unaffected could be interpreted as a way to maintain their appeal, especially for those interested in all three services: Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN.

The Broader Streaming Landscape

It’s important to remember that this price hike isn’t an isolated incident. The streaming wars have been marked by constant adjustments to pricing models. Paramount+ and Netflix both announced increases earlier this year, while Peacock has already implemented four price hikes in the past four years. This trend raises a crucial question: will there ever be an end to these recurring price adjustments?

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not this price increase is “worth it” depends on individual viewing habits and preferences. If you’re a dedicated sports fan who utilizes all that ESPN Unlimited offers, the added content might justify the extra cost. However, for casual viewers, it’s essential to weigh the value proposition carefully before committing to the subscription.

Source: IGN