YouTube Premium is a game-changer. No ads, background play, offline downloads, and full access to YouTube Music—it’s everything a heavy YouTube user could ask for. But at $13.99/month in the U.S., the price can feel steep. The good news? There are smart, safe ways to pay less without resorting to shady hacks.
Here are 5 legit ways to get YouTube Premium for cheaper (or at least maximize its value)—no tricks, no scams, just smart strategy.
Share a Family Plan (and Split the Cost)
YouTube Premium’s Family Plan allows up to 6 people (including you) to share one subscription for just $22.99/month total. That works out to about $3.83/month per person—a massive discount compared to paying individually.
How to do it:
- Set up a Google Family Group
- Invite family (or trusted friends—Google doesn’t verify relations)
- Everyone gets their own account, personalized experience, and full access
Tip: Just make sure everyone lives in the same country as required by Google.
Subscribe from a Country with Lower Prices (VPN Method)
YouTube Premium pricing varies by country. For example:
- India: ~$1.50/month
- Turkey: ~$2.50/month
- Argentina: <$1/month (fluctuates)
By using a VPN to sign up from a country with cheaper rates, many users legally enjoy the same Premium features for a fraction of the price.
How to do it:
- Use a trusted VPN and set your location to a cheaper country (e.g., India or Turkey)
- Create a new Google account (optional but safer)
- Visit YouTube Premium and sign up
- Use an international card or Google Pay (some regions accept PayPal)
Keep your VPN on during sign-up only. After that, you can turn it off—YouTube won’t check IP regularly.
Take Advantage of Extended Free Trials
YouTube frequently offers 1- to 3-month free trials for new users or returning subscribers—especially during special promotions or on new devices.
How to find them:
- Sign out and check YouTube Premium’s offer page
- Buy a new Android phone, tablet, or Chromebook (some include free Premium)
- Try YouTube Music first—sometimes it comes bundled with a Premium trial
Set a calendar reminder to cancel before you’re charged if you’re not ready to pay.
Use Carrier or Device Bundles
Many mobile carriers, ISPs, or device manufacturers partner with Google to offer YouTube Premium or YouTube Music subscriptions for free or at a discount.
Common examples:
- Samsung Galaxy users often get 2–4 months free
- Some Pixel phones and Chromebooks offer Premium trials
- Wireless plans (like Verizon or AT&T) sometimes bundle YouTube services
Check your carrier’s rewards, perks app, or phone offers—you may already qualify.
Use Student Discount (If You’re Eligible)
YouTube offers a special student plan at a lower monthly rate (about $7/month, depending on the country). You’ll need to verify your student status through SheerID.
Requirements:
- Be enrolled at a qualifying college or university
- Re-verify annually
Not a student anymore? Try bundling with a friend who is and join their Family Plan instead.
Conclusion
You don’t have to pay full price to enjoy everything YouTube Premium offers. Whether you split a family plan, take advantage of international pricing, or grab a trial with your next phone, there are legit ways to save without compromising on features.
Even a few bucks saved each month adds up—especially for something you use every day.
