VPN price in 2025: What’s the average cost & how to save money
Wondering how much a VPN costs in 2025? With so many providers offering different features at varying prices, finding the right VPN for your budget can be confusing.
On average, VPN prices range from $2 to $15 per month, depending on features, security levels, and subscription plans. But what exactly do you get for the price? And how can you avoid overpaying?
In this guide, we’ll break down the average VPN price in 2025, explain what you get at different price points, and share money-saving tips to help you get the best value.
Average VPN price in 2025
VPN price varies based on factors like subscription length, features, and provider reputation. Here’s a breakdown of the average VPN costs in 2025:
| VPN type | Monthly price | Yearly plan (per month) | Best for |
| Budget VPNs | $2 – $5 | $1.50 – $3 | Basic users, casual browsing |
| Mid-tier VPNs | $5 – $10 | $3 – $7 | Streaming, gaming, moderate security needs |
| Premium VPNs | $10 – $15+ | $7 – $12 | Advanced security, dedicated IPs, business use |
VPN price trends over the years
- 2015 – 2018: VPNs were more expensive, with fewer long-term discounts. The average cost was around $8 – $12/month.
- 2019 – 2023: As competition increased, VPN providers introduced multi-year plans, bringing prices down to $2 – $5/month for long-term subscribers.
- 2024 – 2025: More budget-friendly VPNs have emerged, offering basic protection for as low as $2/month. However, premium providers maintain higher pricing due to advanced security features.
💡 Insight: If you’re on a budget, a long-term plan can save you 50% or more compared to paying monthly.
What you get for the price
Not all VPNs offer the same value. Here’s what you can expect at different price points:
Budget VPNs ($2 – $5/month)
✅ Basic encryption & security features
✅ Limited server locations (usually under 50 countries)
✅ Slower speeds due to overcrowded servers
❌ May lack streaming & gaming optimization
❌ Some log user data (less privacy)
Mid-Tier VPNs ($5 – $10/month)
✅ Faster speeds & more reliable connections
✅ Unblocks streaming platforms (Netflix, Disney+, etc.)
✅ No-log policies for better privacy
✅ More server locations (60+ countries)
❌ May have limits on simultaneous connections
Premium VPNs ($10 – $15+/month)
✅ High-speed servers & unlimited bandwidth
✅ Advanced security features (Double VPN, RAM-only servers)
✅ Dedicated IP & multi-device support
✅ 24/7 customer support & priority access
✅ Best for businesses & privacy enthusiasts
💡 Tip: If you only need a VPN for basic browsing, a budget VPN is enough. But if you want faster speeds and better security, a mid-tier or premium VPN is worth the extra cost.
Hidden costs & extra fees
Even if a VPN seems cheap, hidden costs can increase the price. Watch out for:
🔹 Dedicated IP address – Extra $3–$5/month for a unique IP.
🔹 Cloud storage & antivirus add-ons – Some VPNs bundle extra services for an additional fee.
🔹 Data limits – Free or ultra-cheap VPNs may restrict bandwidth, forcing you to upgrade.
✅ How to avoid hidden fees: Always check the full pricing details before signing up. Look for “fine print” limitations.
How to save money on VPNs
Want a top-quality VPN without overpaying? Use these strategies to save:
1️⃣ Choose a long-term plan
Most VPN providers offer 50-70% discounts on 1-year or 2-year plans.
💡 Example: Instead of paying $12/month, a 2-year plan can reduce it to $3/month.
2️⃣ Watch for seasonal discounts
🔹 Black Friday & Cyber Monday – Some VPNs slash prices by up to 80%.
🔹 New Year & Summer Sales – Look for limited-time promotions.
3️⃣ Use student & referral discounts
Some VPNs offer student discounts (10-20%) or referral bonuses. If a friend signs up, you both get free months.
4️⃣ Take advantage of free trials & money-back guarantees
🔹 7–30 day free trials let you test the VPN before committing.
🔹 Money-back guarantees (30–45 days) let you cancel if you’re not satisfied.
5️⃣ Look for bundled deals
Some VPNs bundle services (password managers, encrypted storage) at a lower cost. If you need these tools, a bundle can save you money.
6️⃣ Save money with a VPN on online purchases
Did you know that VPNs can help you save money while shopping online? Many websites adjust prices based on your location, meaning you might be paying more just because of where you live. By using a VPN to switch to a different region, you can access lower prices on flights, hotels, and subscriptions.
👉Learn how to get cheap TikTok coins with a VPN by unlocking region-specific deals and getting the best online prices.
Real-world scenarios: How different users save money
💰 Case study 1: Budget Traveler
- Sarah needs a VPN for occasional travel.
- She chooses a budget VPN ($3/month) with a 2-year deal.
- Savings: 50% compared to monthly plans.
📺 Case study 2: Streaming Enthusiast
- Jake wants a VPN to unblock Netflix & Disney+.
- He picks a mid-tier VPN ($6/month) on a holiday discount.
- Savings: 30% compared to standard pricing.
🛡️ Case study 3: Privacy Advocate
- Emma prioritizes security & a no-log policy.
- She gets a premium VPN ($10/month) with a 3-year plan.
- Savings: 60% compared to a monthly subscription.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- Is a free VPN a good option?
No. Free VPNs often come with data limits, slow speeds, and security risks (some log your data or show ads). - Do VPNs get more expensive over time?
No, VPN prices have decreased due to competition. However, premium VPNs maintain higher costs for advanced features. - Can I share my VPN subscription with family?
Yes! Many VPNs allow 5-10 simultaneous connections, meaning one account can cover multiple devices. - What’s the cheapest way to get a VPN?
The best way to save is by choosing a long-term plan during a holiday sale. - Are expensive VPNs worth it?
If you need high speeds, better security, and streaming access, a premium VPN is worth the price. Otherwise, a budget or mid-tier VPN is enough.
Conclusion
VPN pricing in 2025 ranges from $2 to $15 per month, depending on features and subscription length. While budget VPNs offer basic protection, premium VPNs provide faster speeds and stronger security.
💡 To save money on a VPN:
✔️ Choose long-term plans for lower monthly rates.
✔️ Watch for seasonal discounts & student deals.
✔️ Use free trials & money-back guarantees before committing.
By understanding VPN pricing and using smart saving strategies, you can get the best protection without overspending. 🚀