From Netflix to toilet paper, Americans love subscriptions — but 30% are spending much more than they realize

Once upon a time, subscriptions were something you’d sign up for occasionally. Maybe it was a magazine, a gym membership or a streaming service.

Now, it feels like every company wants a monthly payment from your bank account or credit card.

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The average American currently carries an average of 5.2 subscriptions and spends about $69 a month — roughly $830 a year — on them, according to Bango (1). But many people underestimate — or are simply not aware of — exactly how much they’re actually paying.

In fact, one analysis found nearly 30% of consumers often believe they’re spending less than $100 a month when their true subscription costs can exceed $200 (2). Over time, those small recurring charges can quietly eat away at a household budget.

And subscriptions aren’t just for entertainment anymore. These days, you can subscribe to everything from meal kits and razor blades to pet food, coffee and even toilet paper.