How to Cut Subscription Costs in 2025: Simple Ways to Save on Streaming, Apps and More

You might not realize it, but your monthly subscriptions could be quietly draining your wallet. Streaming, cloud storage, fitness apps, beauty boxes, newsletters: all those “just a few bucks a month” services can easily add up to hundreds every year.

According to C+R Research (2024), the average American spends over $219 per month on subscription services: more than most realize until they check their bank statements.

Here’s how to finally get control, cut the extras, and keep the stuff you actually use.

1. Start with a subscription audit

Most people underestimate how many active subscriptions they have or how much they’re actually spending. Start reducing your spending simply by scanning your bank and credit card statements from the last 90 days.

Look for repeating charges from:

• Streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, Paramount+, Disney+)
  
• App stores (Apple, Google Play, fitness or meditation apps)
  
• Retail or delivery subscriptions (Amazon Prime, Instacart, DashPass)
  
• Cloud storage or software tools
  

You can do this manually or use an app that tracks and cancels subscriptions for you. MoneyLion’s guide to managing subscriptions walks through tools that automatically flag recurring charges and, in some cases, remind you when free trials are about to renew.

Pro tip: Set a calendar reminder for renewal dates, especially for annual plans that auto-charge once a year.

2. Compare what you’re paying vs. what you use

Chances are, you’re paying for at least one subscription you barely touch. Use this quick table to gauge how much your “just one more” streaming habit is really costing you.

Category	Average Monthly Cost	Example Services	Approximate Yearly Cost	Approximate Savings If Canceled or Downgraded
Streaming (2-3 platforms)	$45–$60	Netflix, Hulu, Paramount+	$720	$360 if you cut 1-2 services
Music	$10–12	Spotify, Apple Music	$140	$70
Fitness/Wellness	$15–$30	Peloton, Calm, Headspace	$360	$180
Delivery	$10–$15	DashPass, Instacart+, Uber One	$180	$90
Cloud/Software	$10–$20	iCloud, Google One, Adobe	$240	$120

The above numbers are approximate and vary based on the exact app and service level. But using it as a rough guide, the example above reflects a savings of around $800 a year just by trimming things down.

3. Downgrade before you delete

Not every subscription has to go; some just need a cheaper plan. Many platforms hide budget-friendly options behind the “cancel” button.

Try these:

• Streaming: Drop to ad-supported tiers (Netflix, Hulu, Peacock).
  
• Music: Switch to family or student plans if you qualify.
  
• Cloud services: Consolidate to a single provider (Google One, iCloud).
  
• Fitness apps: Pause memberships during off-seasons.
  

Even small plan downgrades can cut your costs without losing access to your favorite content.

4. Use free trials and rotating subscriptions

Here’s an underrated strategy: rotate subscriptions instead of paying for everything at once.

Watch all your must-see shows on Netflix for a month, then cancel and switch to Disney+ the next. That way, you’re only paying for one at a time instead of stacking.

If you try this, remember:

• Set reminders to cancel before trial periods end.
  
• Use new email addresses only for legitimate promotions (avoid sketchy “free trial” sites).
  
• Keep notes of which shows or apps to return to later.
  

5. Get discounts and bundles

Some of the best deals come from bundling services — or knowing where to find hidden discounts.

Check these out:

• Cell phone carriers (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T) often bundle streaming services like Netflix, Apple TV+, or Paramount+.
  
• Student and military discounts can slash up to 50% off major subscriptions.
  
• Annual payment plans usually cost less overall than month-to-month pricing, but only if you truly use the service.
  
• Shared accounts with family plans spread costs legally among multiple users.
  

6. Automate savings with budget tools

Once you’ve canceled or downgraded, redirect that freed-up money toward your savings or debt payoff goals.

MoneyLion’s tools make it easy to automate deposits into a savings account or micro-invest spare change with round-ups*. Treat the $10 you saved canceling Spotify as your new “streaming savings” line item.

Want a simple formula?

Track → Cut → Redirect → Repeat.

7. Keep yourself honest with monthly check-ins

Subscription bloat creeps back in fast. Make it a habit to check your recurring charges once a month.

Quick checklist:

• ✅ Review your app store purchases
  
• ✅ Look for expired free trials
  
• ✅ Re-evaluate whether each service adds value
  
• ✅ Set up push alerts for new recurring payments
  

Staying mindful is half the battle, and your future self (and bank account) will thank you.

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