Netflix dominates the global streaming market, but people’s ability to afford it varies widely.
A Cloudward report therefore compared Netflix prices with median monthly incomes in 100 countries.
Consequently, residents in wealthy nations can pay for Netflix almost effortlessly, unlike poorer countries.
Netflix And Affordability
For example, Norwegians spend just 24 minutes working to cover Netflix’s $12.46 subscription.
Meanwhile, Rwandans must work more than four days to pay for the same $7.99 plan.
Furthermore, seven of the ten hardest-hit countries lie in Africa, showing deep economic inequality.
Netflix often sets prices without considering local income realities, favouring wealthier markets instead.
The company bases subscription costs on licensing, competition, and broadband coverage, rather than affordability.
Although it offers cheaper mobile plans, Netflix keeps standard subscriptions unaffordable for millions.
Thus, streaming costs reflect deeper inequality, particularly in countries with low purchasing power.
Economic Strain Across Africa
For instance, Botswana residents work over three hours for Netflix; Rwandans spend more than four days.
Read Also; Oil Revenue Slides 22% To ₦3.9T In Q4 2024 – Budget Office
Similarly, Nigerians face inflation, currency devaluation, and low wages, making subscriptions a recurring burden.
Moreover, affordability issues extend beyond Netflix to Spotify and YouTube Premium services.
Western companies often ignore local income conditions, leaving millions with limited access to digital services.
Also, price hikes and currency fluctuations force Nigerians to pay more, even if dollar prices stay the same.
Growth Vs Inequality
Nevertheless, Netflix continues to grow in Africa through Nollywood investments and local content production.
However, economic inequality still threatens the sustainability of streaming growth in developing markets.
In conclusion, global availability does not guarantee fair access to digital entertainment services.
Ultimately, Netflix illustrates how technology can widen the gap between rich and poor worldwide.
