As podcasts are becoming popular worldwide, there are also a lot of cost-related questions. Many keep asking “How much does a podcast subscription charge?” Well, most of them require only $3 to $20. 

Also, podcasts are available both in free and paid form. Most podcasters earn money by going with paid and private content. Besides, you have a yearly package, which will cost you less overall. A lot also depends on which particular platform you are hosting the podcast. 

Stick with us till the end to learn everything you need to know about podcast subscription charges. This will be your ultimate guidance as a podcaster!

What Are Podcast Subscriptions?

A podcast subscription is an access to private content. Listeners have to pay a certain amount of bucks in order to lock all episodes of the podcast they want to have access to. 

However, there are both free podcasts and paid podcasts. Free ones do not require any bucks and are available on platforms like Spotify and Apple. 

Still, people who are truly into podcasts, choose the private ones. It is because by paying a small amount of money they are getting free access to exclusive content unlimitedly. Also, this is an incredible way to support favorite podcasters.

However, the thing of concern is that paid podcasts are not available for every content creator. Once the particular podcaster makes his/her own name among everyone, only then paid content get sold. 

How Much Does A Podcast Subscription Charge? 

The average payment to get a podcast subscription varies from $3 to $20. The exact amount depends upon the content quality and number of audience the podcaster is getting.

For someone who is initiating a podcast for the first time, might not gather a lot of audience. For them, it is not logical to charge a high amount of money as there are already a lot of free podcasts available. 

If we check on the famous podcasters, they already have good traffic on their channel. For instance, Peter Attia charges $19 for each audience, and  FoundMyFitness charges $250 for each month. The amount difference is huge because one holds an average engagement rate whereas the other one is top-rated and holds an amazing engagement rate.

Things to consider while deciding the charge of your podcast subscription:

• Research competitors or similar podcasts in your niche. You need to consider both the content type and market recognition here.

• Engage with your audience to understand what they’re willing to pay. Their suggestions or responses can help you determine a fair and appealing subscription fee.

• Factor in your production expenses, including equipment, hosting platforms, and software. Ensure the subscription fee covers these costs while leaving room for profit. Your production cost should sync with the potentiality of your content.

• Account for fees charged by subscription platforms like Patreon, Spotify, or Supercast. Ensure your pricing still meets your financial goals after deductions.

What Kind Of Paid Podcast Subscriptions Can You Offer?

Well, there are many exciting things you can offer your subscribers. Most podcast hosting platforms have a customization section, from which you can offer the following benefits to your audience:

Bonus Episodes

Additional episodes that delve deeper into topics, include extra interviews or cover special requests from subscribers.

High-Quality Audio 

Paid podcasts sometimes offer enhanced audio quality, such as lossless or higher bitrate sound, which is perfect for audiophiles.

Behind-the-Scenes Material

Insights into how the podcast is made, bloopers, or creator commentary. Such BTS are quite fun to watch.

Early Access

Subscribers often get to hear episodes before they’re made available to the public. This is particularly valuable for fans who want to stay ahead in ongoing series or trending discussions.

Video Content

Some podcasts offer video versions of episodes, providing a more immersive experience. You can see the hosts’ expressions, studio setup, or guest interactions, which adds a personal touch.

Live Chatting and Q&A Sessions

Subscribers may get the chance to interact directly with the hosts through live chat or Q&A sessions. This allows for real-time engagement, personalized shoutouts, or even contributing questions to the discussion.

Community Engagement

Many paid podcast platforms provide access to private forums, groups, or Discord channels. These spaces allow subscribers to connect with other fans and engage more deeply with the podcast community. It is a great opportunity for the audiences to connect with their favorite podcasters.

Paid subscribers might also enjoy:

• Exclusive merchandise or discounts.
• Shoutouts in episodes as part of the community.
• Invitations to live events, workshops, or virtual meet-and-greets.

‍How Do Podcast Subscriptions Cost On Spotify?

Spotify is one of the leading platforms for podcast enthusiasts. Spotify offers various Premium subscription plans at affordable rates. Herewith Spotify you can opt for either a duo plan or a family plan.

Duo plan costs $16.99 per month and family plan costs $19.99. For families, the Family Plan supports up to six members, offering parental controls and individual accounts for each member. With these plans, Spotify delivers premium music streaming options for a variety of budgets and needs. For students, Spotify has a special offer of $5.99 only.

How Do You Set Up Podcast Subscriptions On Spotify?

You can easily opt for a Spotify Podcast subscription, you just need to complete a few steps:

• First of all, get your podcast channel at least two episodes and your account subscribed by 100 listeners in the last month. This is the key prerequisite of getting a subscription. Also, setting up subscriptions can be done only with the creators' web.

• Now, browse to your monetize tab and search for “subscription” Here you will get the “Get Started” tab. 

• Start there and it will automatically connect to your stripe account.

• Now, you can select your monthly or yearly payment procedure.

• If you want to customize, select episodes that you want to make “paid”. However, updating is possible anytime with the option “update episode”

To know more about Spotify podcast subscriptions, follow here.

‍How Does The Subscriptions Cost On Apple Podcasts?

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Apple podcast is available in 17- countries on any of the Apple tech devices. Users who have Apple can enjoy both free and paid shows on their devices.

On Apple Podcasts, the subscription cost is determined by the podcast creator, who can set their pricing. The minimum subscription price for a podcast on Apple Podcasts is $0.49 per month. You can choose anything from monthly to yearly packages here.

Creators can charge more depending on the exclusive content or premium benefits they offer, with typical prices ranging from $1.99 to $9.99 per month or higher for more exclusive access. The revenue split is 70% for creators. This increases to 85% after one year where Apple will be taking a 30% commission. However, the cost is reduced to 15% after the first year.

How Do You Set Up Podcast Subscriptions On Apple?

Before everything, you need to publish at least one episode in mp3 format and your podcast must already be successfully submitted to Apple Podcast.

• First, of all, you need to enroll yourself into the Apple Podcaster program. 

• Then log in to your account, tab apple podcast connect, and enable subscription. You can choose a monthly/ yearly package here as well. 

• Now, you are all set to upload your content and customize the offerings.

• Once you have designed all well, you can submit your setup for application.

You can follow the detailed instructions here.

‍Tips To Get Maximum Profit By Subscription Cost

‍Remember, a subscription is not the only thing that will get you money. You can earn bucks on a monthly and yearly basis with other things through the podcast. While getting maximum profit from your subscription, you must maintain a balance.

• To achieve maximum engagement and a good profit by subscription, work on your podcast sound quality. This is one of the first few things that will attract your audience.

• `Make sure you are not boring the listeners. You should constantly work on the quality of the content and never offend the listeners. You have to serve what the audience wants. For that analyze podcast performance and follow a data-driven marketing strategy.

Star tip:To maximize your profit from podcast subscriptions you can grab help from crowdfundly. You can follow strategies that blend subscription-based revenue with Crowdfundly's community-driven funding model:

• Offer unique rewards to your subscribers who also contribute to your Crowdfundly campaign. For example, premium podcast content or exclusive episodes can be offered as rewards for supporting your goals.

• Crowdfundly can also be a tool for offering special rewards, such as exclusive merchandise, which can be an additional incentive for listeners to upgrade their subscriptions. With this platform, you can also integrate the audience into your journey by organizing Q&A, letting them vote on episode topics, or suggesting guest appearances.

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FAQs

How Does A Podcast Subscription Work For The Podcasters?

A podcast subscription works as a way to monetize content by offering listeners exclusive, premium access to episodes or features that are not available to non-subscribers. As a podcaster, you will be getting money from subscriptions by paying a certain percentage to the platform you are releasing the content.

Can I Change The Price Of My Podcast Subscription Later?

Yes, you can edit the subscription price anytime on most platforms. You can also offer special deals or incentives to current subscribers to keep them engaged.

Should I Charge For All Content Or Just Some Episodes?

It is better to follow a hybrid approach. You can design your channel with a few exciting free content along with extended and exclusive episodes or content. This can surely get you more engagement and subscriptions.

Wrap Up

Podcast Subscription Charge depend upon a lot of things. However, the article has brought it all together for a beginner. First of all, focus on your content precisely and you can then follow all those things mentioned here. Incorporating these can surely help you succeed as a podcaster.