Iowans Cut Subscriptions, Sell Belongings to Save
A new study finds canceling subscriptions and selling possessions are the top ways Iowans are trimming their spending.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Saving
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A study finds Iowans are saving money by canceling subscriptions and selling personal possessions, with each method used by 41% of respondents. Streaming services including Netflix, Spotify, Paramount Plus, Hulu, Disney+, and Peacock raised basic-tier prices in 2026, prompting many to cut back.
Why it matters
Rising subscription prices are pushing household budgets, and many Iowans are turning to cuts and asset sales to keep up with everyday costs. The findings point to financial strain across the state as essential expenses compete with routine spending.
In the survey, 41% of Iowans canceled subscriptions and 41% sold personal possessions to save money, while 32% have borrowed money to cover essential living costs. Of those borrowers, 71% asked family for help, and 59% listed utility bills among their top three financial concerns for the next year.
The players
Netflix
Netflix is a global streaming service whose basic-tier price increase is cited as a reason Iowans are canceling subscriptions.
Spotify
Spotify is a music streaming platform that raised its basic-tier price by $1 monthly in spring 2026.
The details
Streaming services raised basic-tier prices in 2026, with Netflix, Spotify, and Paramount Plus up $1 monthly, Hulu up $1.50, and Disney+ up $0.50. Iowans are responding by canceling subscriptions, selling items through platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and Vinted, and cutting groceries, social plans, and event attendance.
Timeline
Spring 2026: Netflix, Spotify, and Paramount Plus raised basic-tier prices by $1 monthly.
Fall 2026: Hulu, Disney+, and Peacock raised basic-tier prices.
Personal Finance Pressure
Recent basic-tier increases by Netflix, Spotify, Paramount Plus, Hulu, Disney+, and Peacock have made subscription cancellation a common household response. The Iowa findings suggest these price moves are feeding into broader cutbacks on essentials and borrowing.
Households paying for streaming can compare basic-tier prices across services before renewing. Canceling or downgrading subscriptions is one of the most common ways Iowans are reducing monthly bills.
The takeaway
Reviewing recurring subscriptions and their renewal dates can reveal easy monthly savings before cutting essentials. Households facing utility bill pressure may also benefit from checking available assistance programs early.
Further reading
Explore more on Saving strategies that Iowans are using to stretch their budgets.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AM 950 KOEL.
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