How Much Is ESPN? Subscription Cost Per Month This May 2026

The go-to streaming platform for sports fans, ESPN Plus, provides access to exclusive sports content, including live events, original programming, and more. Unlike ESPN's cable networks, ESPN Plus focuses on giving sports fans assorted live sports coverage, ranging from UFC and MLB to NHL and college sports. Subscribers can access ESPN's premium service through multiple platforms, such as the ESPN app, Hulu, and Disney Plus, providing flexibility for subscribers. ESPN Plus frequently offers sales and bundle deals — and even a few options to watch for free.

Best ESPN Deals This May

ESPN Unlimited 1-Month Trial

Free w/ MLB.TV subscription

New subscribers who purchase an MLB.TV plan will get one month of ESPN Unlimited at no additional charge. This is a great way to see everything ESPN has to offer as well as watch all your MLB favorites. Note that after the month trial is up, your ESPN Unlimited subscription will automatically renew at the then-current rate ($29.99 per month at the time of publishing) unless you cancel. You also don't need to keep ESPN Unlimited to maintain your MLB.TV subscription, so if you only care about baseball, you can drop the ESPN subscription without issue. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle

$19.99/mo.

Sign up for this trio of services and you'll get Disney+ (with ads), Hulu (with ads), and ESPN Select (with ads) for 45% less than subscribing to the services separately. You'll be able to watch your favorite Disney+ and Hulu content as well as select CFB games; LALIGA, Bundesliga, NWSL, and more; men's and women's CBB; NHL; ESPN Originals, 30 for 30s, and E60s; and more. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle

$35.99/mo.

Subscribe to the Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited bundle and you'll get Disney+ (with ads), Hulu (with ads), and ESPN Unlimited (with ads) for 33% less than getting each service separately. That means you'll be able to enjoy everything Disney+ and Hulu has to offer, plus NFL; CFB (including ACC, Big 12, SEC, and the CFP on ABC/ESPN); WWE Premium Live Events; LALIGA, Bundesliga, NWSL, and more; NBA and WNBA; men's and women's CBB; NHL; SportsCenter, College GameDay, First Take, and more; ESPN Originals, 30 for 30s, and E60s. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

ESPN Unlimited NFL+ Bundle

$39.99/mo.

Subscribe to ESPN Unlimited and add NFL+ to make sure you never miss a Monday Night Football game. You'll also get access to everything ESPN Unlimited offers as well as NFL Network, NFL RedZone, NFL Films, and more. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

ESPN, Fox One Bundle

$39.99/mo.

Sign up for a subscription to the ESPN Fox One Bundle and you'll get even more access to all the live sports you love to watch. You'll have access to ABC Sports, ESPN, ESPN2, Fox, FS1, FS2, SEC Network, and more. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle

$19.99/mo.

Get the Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle for $19.99 per month. This offer ends December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle Premium

$29.99/mo.

The Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle Premium is $29.99 per month. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle

$35.99 per month

Get the Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle for 33% off, making it $35.99 per month. This plan includes access to all of ESPN's networks and services, including ESPN+, access to ESPN content in the Disney+ app, and access to select Hulu content in the Disney+ app. This offer ends December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle Premium

$44.99/mo.

Get 33% off the Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle Premium making just $44.99 per month. This plan includes access to all of ESPN's networks and services, including ESPN+, Access to ESPN content in the Disney+ app, access to select Hulu content in the Disney+ app, no ads, and downloads. This offer ends December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Premium Bundle

$44.99/mo.

Subscribe to the premium bundle of Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited and you'll get Disney+ (no ads), Hulu (no ads), and ESPN Unlimited (with ads) for 33% less than subscribing to each one separately. You'll be able to watch all your Disney+ and Hulu favorites, plus ESPN Unlimited will give you access to NFL; CFB (including ACC, Big 12, SEC, and the CFP on ABC/ESPN); WWE Premium Live Events; LALIGA, Bundesliga, NWSL, and more; NBA and WNBA; men's and women's CBB; NHL; SportsCenter, College GameDay, First Take, and more; ESPN Originals, 30 for 30s, and E60s. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundles

33% off per month

Get 33% off Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundles. These bundles include access to all of ESPN's networks and services, including ESPN+, access to ESPN content in the Disney+ app, and much more. This offer ends December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

ESPN Select Subscription

$12.99/mo.

Subscribe to ESPN Select and for just $12.99 per month you'll be able to watch select CFB games; LALIGA, Bundesliga, NWSL, and more; men's and women's CBB; NHL; ESPN Originals, 30 for 30s, and E60s. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

ESPN Unlimited Subscription

$29.99/mo.

Subscribe to ESPN Unlimited and you'll be able to watch a ton of sports content for $29.99 per month. That means access to NFL; CFB (including ACC, Big 12, SEC, and the CFP on ABC/ESPN); WWE Premium Live Events; LALIGA, Bundesliga, NWSL, and more; NBA and WNBA; men's and women's CBB; NH; SportsCenter, College GameDay, First Take, and more; ESPN Originals, 30 for 30s, and E60s. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Stream ESPN Sports

From $12.99

Subscribe to ESPN and stream all your favorite sports content, with prices starting at just $12.99 per month. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Stream Golf on ESPN

From $12.99/mo.

Subscribe to ESPN and you'll be able to watch a variety of golf content, including the PGA Tour Live, The Masters, and more. You'll be able to watch all 34 events with four unique feeds, plus more exclusive coverage, all season long. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Stream ESPN Sports in Spanish

From $12.99/mo.

Stream all your ESPN favorites in Spanish when you subscribe to an ESPN plan. Prices start at just $12.99 per month and you can bundle ESPN with Disney+ and Hulu as well. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Stream Soccer at ESPN in Spanish

From $12.99/mo.

Subscribe to an ESPN plan and you'll be able to watch a huge variety of soccer content in Spanish. From LALIGA to the FA Cup and beyond, you'll be able to watch matches from all over the world. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Stream ESPN Originals in Spanish

From $12.99/mo.

Subscribe to an ESPN plan and stream a variety of Originals in Spanish. Plans start at just $12.99 per month. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Stream Soccer at ESPN

From $12.99/mo.

Subscribe to an ESPN plan and you'll be able to enjoy all kinds of soccer content, including all of LALIGA; all of the FA Cup; more than 300 matches from Germany plus the DFL-Supercup and relegation playoffs; European matches; and more. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Stream ESPN Originals

From $12.99/mo.

Subscribe to an ESPN plan for as little as $12.99 per month and you'll be able to enjoy ESPN Originals content including the full 30 For 30 library; every E60 episode; The Places Universe; and other Originals from some of the biggest athletes including Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Abby Wambach, and more. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Stream NHL on ESPN

From $12.99/mo.

Stream NHL content on ESPN starting at just $12.99 per month. With ESPN Select, you'll be able to watch ESPN+ Power Play (more than 1,000 out-of-market games); ESPN+ Hockey Night; Original NHL Content (In The Crease); on-demand content and replays; hockey studio shows (The Point); and local market blackouts. Opt for the higher tier ESPN Unlimited Plan for $29.99 per month and you'll get everything above plus live NHL games on ESPN/ABC; Stanley Cup Playoffs on ESPN/ABC; and the Stanley Cup Final on ABC. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Stream College Football at ESPN

From $12.99/mo.

Get your college football fix with an ESPN subscription starting at just $12.99. With ESPN Select you'll be able to watch more than 1,000 college football games as well as ESPN+ college football games and select FCS Championship games. If you opt for the ESPN Unlimited plan for $29.99 per month, you'll get everything included with the ESPN Select plan as well as full coverage of The College Football Playoff and National Championship; College GameDay, SEC Nation, ACC Huddle; ACCN/SECN; College Football Playoff Top 25 Rankings and Selection Show; and Bowl Season. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Stream Tennis at ESPN

From $29.99/mo.

Stream all your tennis favorites live when you subscribe to ESPN. Whether you want to see every Wimbledon match, the entire US Open lineup, or lock into the Australian Open, you can enjoy your favorite athletes best plays on ESPN. You can even go back and revisit select classic matches to see those unbelievable plays again and again. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

MLB.TV Subscription at ESPN

$29.99/mo.

Subscribe to MLB.TV monthly at ESPN for just $29.99 and enjoy every out-of-market game LIVE or on demand and MLB Big Inning. You'll also be able to enjoy audio game feed, extensive VOD, additional events live on MLB via the MLB app. Note that you can pay as you go and cancel at any time with monthly billing through October; your monthly subscription will then automatically renew on or around March 1, 2027. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

MLB.TV Seasonal Subscription at ESPN

$149.99/season

Go all-in on baseball with a seasonal subscription to MLB.TV at ESPN. You'll get every out-of-market game live or on-demand, as well as MLB Big Inning. Plus, you'll have access to audio game feed, extensive VOD, and additional events live via the MLB app. Note that your seasonal subscription will auto-renew for the next season on or around March 1, 2027. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

Gift ESPN Select Year-Long Subscription

$129.99

Gift a year-long subscription to ESPN Select and you'll save 16% compared to subscribing monthly. That might not sound like much, but you'll be getting 12 months for the price of 10. Whether you want to treat yourself or gift a subscription to someone else, an annual subscription means more sports for less money. Some exclusions may apply. This offer is valid through December 31, 2026.

Get Deal

How Much Does ESPN Plus Cost in May 2026?

ESPN has shifted to two primary tiers. Depending on your viewing habits, you can choose between a streaming-only option or a full cable-replacement service:

• ESPN Select (Formerly ESPN+): Costs $12.99 per month or $129.99 per year. This plan is the best value for fans of niche sports, NHL Power Play, PGA Tour Live, and international soccer, though it does not include live linear channels like ESPN or ESPN2.
• ESPN Unlimited (All-Access): Costs $29.99 per month or $299.99 per year. This is a complete cord-cutting solution that includes everything in the Select plan, plus live feeds of all 12 ESPN networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, and ABC, as well as WWE Premium Live Events.
• Disney Bundle Trio: Starts at $16.99 per month. This bundle includes Disney+ (with ads), Hulu (with ads), and ESPN Select. It remains the most cost-effective option for families who want a variety of entertainment alongside sports.

What is the Difference Between ESPN Select and ESPN Unlimited?

The primary difference is access to live linear networks. ESPN Select is a streaming-only service for exclusive digital content and niche sports, whereas ESPN Unlimited includes the live feeds of 12 networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, SEC Network, and ACC Network.

• ESPN Select: Replaces the old ESPN+ service. It features 32,000+ live events, 30 for 30 documentaries, and out-of-market games. It does not include Monday Night Football or major NBA broadcasts.
• ESPN Unlimited: A premium service designed for cord-cutters. It includes everything in Select, plus live TV channels and WWE Premium Live Events, which transitioned to ESPN in early 2026.

2026 Disney Bundle Pricing and Savings

If you already subscribe to Disney+ or Hulu, bundling is the most cost-effective way to get ESPN.

• Disney Bundle Trio Basic ($16.99/mo): Includes Disney+ (With Ads), Hulu (With Ads), and ESPN Select. This is the best value for casual sports fans.
• Disney Bundle Trio Premium ($29.99/mo): Removes ads from Disney+ and Hulu while keeping ESPN Select.
• ESPN Unlimited Bundle (~$35.99/mo): A newer 2026 offering that combines Disney+ and Hulu with the full ESPN Unlimited "all-access" tier.

How to Get ESPN Unlimited for Free via YouTube TV

Following a 2026 carriage agreement, ESPN Unlimited is now integrated into YouTube TV at no additional cost. If you are a YouTube TV subscriber, you can access all ESPN Select (formerly ESPN+) content and on-demand originals directly through the YouTube TV interface without a separate $29.99/month subscription.

Where to Find the Best ESPN Discounts and Deals

The most consistent way to save on ESPN is to opt for an annual subscription, which reduces the effective monthly cost by approximately 20%.

• Annual Savings: Paying $129.99/year for ESPN Select saves you $25.89 compared to the monthly rate.
• Verizon/Amex Offers: Check your "Member Benefits" or "Amex Offers" sections; many high-tier Verizon plans still offer the Disney Bundle as a free perk.
• Student/Military Discounts: Look for "ID.me" verification links on the ESPN sign-up page for potential cash-back rewards ranging from $5 to $15.

How to Watch WWE Premium Live Events (PLEs) in 2026

In a major shift for 2026, WWE Premium Live Events are now exclusive to the ESPN Unlimited plan ($29.99/mo). WWE content has moved away from Peacock; however, fans who already have a cable or satellite provider (like Spectrum or DirecTV) can often authenticate their credentials in the ESPN app to watch WWE events at no extra charge.

The Best Ways to Save on ESPN Plus in 2026

With "streamflation" continuing to impact nearly every major platform, finding ways to lower your monthly overhead without losing access to your favorite teams is more important than ever. Fortunately, even as standalone rates have shifted, there are still several reliable methods to secure a discount on your sports coverage this month. Whether you are looking to bundle your entertainment services or leverage external perks from your mobile provider or credit card, the following strategies can help you maximize your savings while maintaining full access to the live events you love.

Opt For The Annual Subscription Plan

One of the most straightforward ways to reduce your streaming expenses this month is to commit to a full year upfront. While the monthly cost of $12.99 provides flexibility, the annual plan typically offers a discount that equates to getting nearly two months of service for free.

• Locked-In Pricing: An annual plan protects you from any mid-year price hikes that may occur as "streamflation" continues to impact the industry.
• Single Billing Cycle: You only have to manage one transaction per year, making it easier to track your entertainment budget.
• Effective Monthly Rate: By paying the yearly fee, you often lower your effective monthly cost by approximately 15% to 20% compared to the standard ESPN Plus monthly rate.

Bundle With Disney Plus And Hulu

The Disney Bundle remains the powerhouse of value for sports fans who also enjoy movies and general entertainment. Instead of paying for three separate apps, combining them into a single Trio package can save you over $15 every month.

• Trio Basic vs. Premium: Users can choose between the ad-supported "Basic" tier for the lowest price or the "Premium" tier for an ad-free experience on Disney+ and Hulu.
• Consolidated Billing: Managing all three services through one account simplifies your subscriptions and ensures you are getting the maximum discount available.
• Cross-Platform Integration: Many live sports events from ESPN Plus are now integrated directly into the Disney+ and Hulu interfaces for bundle subscribers.

Use Credit Card Streaming Perks

Many premium credit cards now offer monthly statement credits specifically for digital entertainment. For instance, certain American Express cards provide a monthly credit that can completely offset the cost of the Disney Bundle or a standalone ESPN Plus subscription. Before you pay your next bill, check your banking app's "Offers" section to see if you can activate a 5% to 10% cash-back reward for streaming services, which effectively lowers your out-of-pocket cost without changing your viewing habits.

Explore Mobile Carrier Incentives

Mobile service providers frequently use streaming bundles to attract and retain customers. This month, several major carriers continue to offer "Disney Bundle" inclusions as a perk for their premium unlimited plans.

• Verizon "On Us" Offers: Verizon has a history of including the Disney Bundle Trio in their high-tier data plans, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars per year.
• Add-On Discounts: Some carriers allow you to add ESPN Plus to your mobile bill for a discounted "perk" price of $10, which is lower than the standard market rate.
• Trial Periods: Even if a permanent bundle isn't available, many carriers offer 6-month promotional trials for new lines or upgrades.

Monitor DealNews For Flash Sales

While official price drops are rare, third-party retailers occasionally offer promotions that can lower the cost of entry. By keeping a close eye on DealNews streaming deals, you can catch flash sales on subscription gift cards or limited-time "welcome back" offers that aren't advertised on the main ESPN homepage. These deals are most common during the lead-up to major sporting events or during the traditional holiday shopping season, but smaller regional promotions can pop up at any time throughout the year.

Buy Discounted Multi-Month Gift Cards

Warehouse clubs and digital retailers often sell subscription gift cards at a slight markdown. If you can find a $100 ESPN Plus gift card for $90 at a store like Costco or BJ's, you are essentially pre-paying for your sports coverage at a 10% discount.

• No Expiration: These cards typically do not expire, allowing you to bank them for future use.
• Avoid Auto-Renew: Using gift cards is an excellent way to prevent unwanted auto-renewals if you only want the service for a specific season.
• Stacking Savings: You can sometimes combine these gift cards with store-specific cash-back apps to increase your total savings even further.

Implement A Seasonal Cancellation Strategy

For fans who only care about a specific sport, the most effective way to save is to stop paying for the service during the off-season. Because there are no long-term contracts for the monthly tier, you can subscribe in the fall for football and hockey, then cancel your membership once the playoffs conclude. This "churning" strategy allows you to only pay for the months you actually use, which can cut your annual expenditure in half compared to a year-round subscription. Just be sure to set a calendar reminder to cancel before your next billing cycle begins to avoid an extra charge.

What Do You Get With ESPN Plus? A Deep Dive Into Plans and Features

ESPN has significantly evolved its streaming landscape, moving beyond a simple add-on service to a comprehensive platform that serves both casual viewers and die-hard sports fans. Whether you are looking for exclusive international soccer matches or a full replacement for your cable sports package, the current lineup of plans offers a variety of entry points. The service has transitioned into two primary tiers—ESPN Select and ESPN Unlimited—while maintaining its popular integration with the Disney Bundle.

Exploring The Different ESPN Subscription Plans

Choosing the right plan depends on whether you want a supplement to your current TV setup or a standalone way to watch the flagship ESPN networks. The service now offers tiered access that ranges from streaming-only exclusives to a total "all-in" sports experience.

• ESPN Select: Formerly known as the standard ESPN Plus service, this plan is the most budget-friendly option. It includes over 30,000 live annual events, the complete "30 for 30" documentary library, and exclusive original programming. However, it does not include the live linear feeds of the main ESPN cable channels.
• ESPN Unlimited: This premium tier acts as a complete cord-cutting solution. It includes everything found in the Select plan plus 24/7 live streams of every ESPN network, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network, and ACC Network.
• The Disney Bundle: One of the most popular ways to subscribe is by bundling ESPN Select or Unlimited with Disney+ and Hulu. This trio provides a massive library of entertainment, making it an ideal choice for households that need more than just sports.
• Sports-Centric Bundles: For those who live and breathe specific leagues, you can find specialized packages that combine ESPN Unlimited with services like NFL Plus Premium or FOX One, providing a massive breadth of coverage across football, baseball, and more.

Premium Content And Exclusive Live Sports

The hallmark of the service is its massive volume of live sports that you won't find on traditional television. It has become the primary home for various international and niche sports while offering a significant amount of "out-of-market" coverage for major domestic leagues.

Subscribers gain access to every out-of-market NHL game and a wide selection of MLB games throughout the regular season. For soccer fans, the platform is indispensable, carrying every match from LaLiga and the Bundesliga, as well as extensive coverage of the FA Cup and NWSL. Combat sports fans also benefit from being the exclusive home of UFC, including access to preliminary fights and the ability to purchase Pay-Per-View events directly through the app.

Beyond the live action, the service houses an extensive library of on-demand content. This includes the multi-award-winning "30 for 30" series, original shows like "The Captain" and "Peyton's Places," and daily studio programs that dive deep into the latest headlines.

Essential Features For Every Sports Fan

The platform is built with technical features designed to improve the viewing experience, particularly for those tracking multiple games at once or looking for an edge in their fantasy leagues.

• Multiview and Simultaneous Streams: Users can stream on up to five devices at the same time. On connected TV devices, the "Multiview" feature allows you to watch up to four different live games on a single screen—a must-have for busy college football Saturdays.
• Exclusive Written Content: A subscription removes the paywall from the ESPN website and app, granting full access to "Insider" articles, deep-dive scouting reports, and advanced analytical tools from top sports journalists.
• Fantasy Sports Integration: The app provides enhanced tools for fantasy players, including real-time stat tracking and expert advice that integrates directly with your active ESPN fantasy rosters.
• Offline Viewing: For fans on the go, the mobile app allows you to download select on-demand shows and documentaries to watch without an internet connection, which is perfect for travel or commutes.

Everything Else to Know About ESPN Plus

While the sticker price provides a baseline for entry, getting the most out of an ESPN Plus subscription requires a deeper look at how the service functions within the broader Disney ecosystem. Understanding the interplay between standalone costs, bundled savings, and additional pay-per-view requirements is essential for any budget-conscious viewer looking to maximize their entertainment dollar.

Whether you are a first-time subscriber or a long-term member evaluating your options this month, the following breakdown covers the technical details and financial strategies you need to know to ensure you aren't overpaying for your sports fix.

Annual Subscription Savings vs. Monthly Billing

For fans who plan on keeping the service year-round, the annual plan remains the most effective way to lower the effective monthly cost. Historically, opting for the yearly commitment has saved subscribers approximately 15% to 20% compared to paying the month-to-month rate. As of this month, the annual price offers a significant buffer against potential mid-year price hikes, locking in your rate for a full 12 months of coverage across the NHL, MLB, and international soccer leagues.

The Value Of The Disney Bundle Trio

The Disney Bundle remains the "gold standard" for streamers looking to maximize their entertainment budget. By combining ESPN Plus with Disney+ and Hulu, subscribers can see a massive reduction in their total bill compared to purchasing each service individually.

• Total Monthly Savings: Bundling typically saves users over $15 per month compared to standalone subscriptions.
• Trio Basic: Includes ad-supported versions of all three services for a streamlined price.
• Trio Premium: Offers the best value for power users, providing ad-free Disney+ and Hulu alongside ESPN Plus.
  You can find the latest Disney Bundle offers to see which configuration fits your household budget.

Pay-Per-View Costs and UFC Integration

If you are a combat sports fan, the cost of ESPN Plus is often just the baseline. The service is the exclusive home to UFC Pay-Per-View (PPV) events, which require an additional fee on top of the standard subscription.

• PPV Price Point: Individual PPV events are currently priced at approximately $84.99 each.
• Exclusive Bundle Deals: New subscribers can often find a "PPV + Annual Plan" bundle that saves roughly 25% for the first year.
• Frequency: With nearly a dozen numbered UFC events per year, these costs can add up quickly for dedicated MMA followers.
  Keeping an eye on DealNews can help you spot rare promotional credits or gift card deals that can be applied toward these high-cost events.

Comparative Costs Versus Traditional Cable

When evaluating the cost of ESPN Plus, it is important to distinguish it from the linear ESPN cable channel. While a cable or satellite package can cost upwards of $100 per month, ESPN Plus provides a specialized library of over 30,000 live events per year for a fraction of that price. However, it does not include the "main" ESPN feed seen on cable. For cord-cutters, this service is a supplemental cost-saving measure rather than a direct replacement for the flagship network.

Multi-Stream Functionality and Shared Value

To get the most out of the monthly subscription fee, many households take advantage of the service's generous streaming limits. This effectively lowers the "cost per user" within a single home.

• Simultaneous Streams: Subscribers can stream on up to three devices at the same time.
• Device Compatibility: The service is available on almost all smart TVs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices at no extra cost.
• Offline Viewing: While live sports must be streamed, certain original programming and "30 for 30" documentaries can be downloaded for offline viewing, saving on mobile data costs.
  You can check the full list of compatible hardware on the official ESPN Plus hardware page.

The Evolution of Free Trials and Promotions

It is worth noting for price-conscious consumers that the era of the "7-day free trial" for ESPN Plus has largely ended. As the service matured and the library grew to include exclusive rights to the NFL and prestigious golf tournaments, Disney phased out free entry points. This month, the best way to test the service without a long-term commitment is to sign up for a single month and cancel before the renewal date, as there are no "hidden" cancellation fees.

Content Volume Per Dollar Invested

When looking at the sheer volume of content, the price-per-event on ESPN Plus remains one of the lowest in the streaming industry. For the current monthly fee, users gain access to a massive array of niche and mainstream sports that were previously unavailable without expensive specialized cable packages.

• College Sports: Access to thousands of events from over 20 conferences, including the SEC and Big 12.
• International Reach: Exclusive US rights to La Liga and the Bundesliga.
• Original Programming: Thousands of hours of archive footage and original series like Peyton's Places.
  For a deeper dive into how this compares to other sports streamers. Even with "streamflation" impacting the market, the density of live programming per dollar remains a strong selling point for the service.

Historical Pricing of ESPN Plus and Disney Bundles

Priced at $12.99 per month this month, a standalone subscription to ESPN Plus (now also known as ESPN Select) costs over two-and-a-half times more than when the service launched at $4.99 monthly in 2018. As with most services, costs have risen steadily over the years to keep pace with the evolving streaming landscape.

From 2020 to 2025, ESPN Plus saw consistent incremental increases in both its monthly and annual subscription rates, reflecting the rising costs of acquiring major sports rights and expanding its live content library. Despite these price hikes, the service's bundled deals have consistently provided significant savings, particularly the Disney Bundle Trio Premium (now $29.99/month) and the standard Disney Bundle Trio Basic.

While most price hikes have been incremental, the most significant shift occurred in 2022 when the standalone price for ESPN Plus jumped by $3.00, moving from $6.99 to $9.99. More recently, late 2025 saw a similar $3.00 increase for the Trio Basic bundle, which now sits at $19.99. This pricing strategy highlights a continued effort to encourage subscribers toward all-in-one bundles, which offer a deeper discount compared to individual service prices.

The consistent availability of bundled deals has made ESPN Plus an attractive option for cost-conscious sports fans, allowing them to access a massive variety of sports content alongside Disney+ and Hulu at a reduced total price. As individual service rates have gradually climbed, these bundles have helped mitigate the impact of "streamflation," ensuring that subscribers continue to receive competitive value for their entertainment budget.

What Can I Actually Watch on ESPN Plus This Year?

With its library having grown exponentially since its debut, ESPN Plus now offers an overwhelming amount of live programming that caters to every type of sports enthusiast. Whether you are looking for top-tier international competitions or niche college matchups, the platform provides a breadth of coverage that traditional cable simply cannot match.

This year, subscribers have access to a rotation of over 30,000 live events, ranging from the hard-hitting action of the Octagon to the strategic matches of global soccer leagues. Here is a breakdown of the specific content you can expect to find on the service this month and throughout the rest of the year.

The Exclusive Home Of UFC And Combat Sports

For fans of mixed martial arts, ESPN Plus remains an essential subscription. It is the only place to access UFC Pay-Per-View events and the weekly "Fight Night" cards.

• Main Card Exclusivity: You must have an active subscription just to purchase PPV events.
• UFC Fight Nights: Dozens of live events are included at no extra cost throughout the year.
• The Ultimate Fighter: Full access to the long-running reality series and the deep UFC archive library.
• Professional Fighters League (PFL): Live coverage of the regular season, playoffs, and championship events.

Extensive Live Coverage Of Out-Of-Market Professional Leagues

One of the biggest value adds for sports fans is the volume of professional league games available. This is particularly valuable for fans who live far away from their favorite team's local broadcast market.

• NHL Power Play: Includes over 1,000 out-of-market NHL games throughout the regular season.
• MLB Action: A daily selection of Major League Baseball games is available to stream all summer long.
• Top Rank Boxing: Exclusive live coverage of world-class boxing matches and weigh-ins.

Global Soccer Hub: From La Liga To International Cups

ESPN Plus has solidified itself as a premier destination for soccer fans in the United States. The service carries thousands of matches from the world's most prestigious leagues.

• Spanish La Liga: Every single match from the top flight of Spanish soccer, including the legendary "El Clásico."
• German Bundesliga: Comprehensive coverage of Germany's top league, featuring giants like Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund.
• English Domestic Cups: Exclusive US rights to both the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup.
• Additional Leagues: Coverage of the EFL Championship, Dutch Eredivisie, and the Belgian Pro League.

Unrivaled Access To College Athletics

For the college sports enthusiast, the sheer volume of content available this year is staggering. ESPN Plus provides a platform for games that were historically difficult to find on traditional cable.

• Comprehensive Coverage: Over 20 different conferences are represented, including the SEC, Big 12, and ACC.
• Variety of Sports: It's not just football and basketball; you can stream live baseball, softball, volleyball, lacrosse, and track and field.
• Regional Rivalries: Hundreds of matchups that are often "blacked out" or unavailable on national networks can be found here.

Anticipation For Major International Tournaments

As we move through the current calendar year, ESPN Plus serves as a critical secondary platform for major global events. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup taking place in North America this year, the service is a hub for related analysis, historical match replays, and supplemental coverage. While the main matches air on broadcast networks, the "surround" content on ESPN Plus provides a much deeper dive for the dedicated fan.

Grand Slam Tennis And PGA Tour Live

Tennis and golf fans receive some of the best "per-hour" value on the service due to the length of the events and the multi-court/multi-hole coverage options.

• PGA Tour Live: Over 4,300 hours of live coverage from 35+ tournaments, including "Featured Groups" and "Featured Holes."
• Grand Slam Tennis: Thousands of matches from Wimbledon, the Australian Open, and the US Open.
• Choice of View: During major tournaments, subscribers can often choose which court they want to watch, a feature rarely available on linear television.

Award-Winning Original Series And Documentaries

When there are no live games on the schedule, the "Plus" in the service's name refers to a massive library of on-demand content. This year, the library has grown to include:

• The 30 for 30 Library: The entire archive of ESPN's acclaimed documentary series is available for ad-free streaming.
• Exclusive Series: Shows like Peyton's Places, Man in the Arena, and More Than An Athlete provide an inside look at sports legends.
• Daily Studio Shows: On-demand episodes of ESPN FC, In the Crease, and The Pat McAfee Show ensure you never miss a headline.

So, Is ESPN Plus Worth the Cost in 2026?

As "streamflation" continues to reshape the digital landscape, the question of value has become more critical for the average household. This month, at its current price point, ESPN Plus is no longer the "impulse buy" it was at launch, but it remains a powerhouse for specific types of viewers. Whether it is "worth it" depends entirely on how much of a specialist you are when it comes to your sports consumption.

• The "Super Fan" Factor: For NHL, UFC, and international soccer followers, the service is practically mandatory. The cost of a single UFC PPV alone often justifies the annual subscription through bundle discounts, and the sheer volume of out-of-market games is unrivaled.
• The Bundle Advantage: If you already pay for Disney+ or Hulu, the incremental cost to upgrade to the Disney Bundle Trio remains one of the best deals in streaming. By bundling, you are essentially paying a fraction of the standalone price for ESPN Plus, making it a high-value add-on rather than a primary expense.
• Content Volume vs. Premium Access: It is important to remember that ESPN Plus is a supplement to, not a replacement for, the linear ESPN cable channel. While you get over 30,000 live events, you still won't find the flagship Monday Night Football broadcasts or the NBA Playoffs here without a separate live TV provider.
• No Long-Term Risk: Because the service offers a month-to-month "cancel anytime" policy, the risk is low. Many fans find the most value by subscribing only during the peak months of their favorite sport's season and pausing the service during the off-season to save money.

Ultimately, for those who live and breathe sports—especially niche or international leagues—the answer is a resounding yes. The price per hour of live entertainment remains incredibly low compared to the cost of a single ticket to a live game. However, for the casual fan who only cares about the biggest national broadcasts, the service is best enjoyed as part of the Disney Bundle to ensure you are getting the most "bang for your buck" across your entire entertainment budget.

Why Trust DealNews For ESPN Plus Tips and Tricks

DealNews was founded in 1997, giving DealNews over 25 years of experience in finding the best deals across different categories of services and products. Interested in saving money on your favorite streaming discounts? Sign up for the DealNews Select newsletter to receive emails with some of the hottest deals every weekday. Make the most of these deal offerings by setting a deal alert for products you're interested in.