Death. Taxes. And now, higher streaming prices. It seems like every time you turn on your favorite service, it's asking for more of your hard-earned cash.

The latest hikes see Netflix and Amazon Prime Video both upping their game (and their prices) in a bid to match the ever-increasing demands of content creators and investors. Even smaller players like Crunchyroll have had to reassess their pricing, while Apple TV Plus is adding a hefty $3 surcharge.

These changes aren’t just about recouping lost revenue from declining cable subscriptions; they’re also part of a broader strategy to lock in loyal viewers and fund an ever-expanding library of content. HBO Max itself has raised prices for the third year running, even as it considers selling off parts of its vast media empire.

As studios compete fiercely for your attention, expect this trend to continue. The next time you’re tempted by a new show or movie, remember: it’s likely come with a hefty price tag attached. And that’s just the way they want it.