How Much Does CTV & OTT Advertising Cost?

A smart TV glowing in a dark living room, a remote on the armrest

What connected TV and OTT streaming ads cost in 2026 — real CPM ranges, minimum budgets, and what moves the price up or down.

The short answer

CTV and OTT advertising — the ads you see on streaming-TV apps like Hulu, Peacock, Roku, and the free ad-supported channels — commonly costs ~$25–$45 CPM, with premium authenticated inventory reaching ~$55–$65. Many platforms let you start meaningfully around $500–$1,000/month, and some have no minimum at all. Not sure how the two differ? See CTV vs OTT advertising explained.

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Why CTV costs more than social — and less than you'd think

CTV's CPM is higher than paid social because you are buying the living-room screen, with near-100% completion on non-skippable ads and ~87% US household reach for connected TV — the audience big brands pay full TV budgets to reach. But it is far cheaper and more targetable than traditional cable or broadcast: you can aim CTV at specific geographies, demographics, and interests, and pay only for impressions actually delivered.

What moves the price

Inventory quality: premium streamers (authenticated, exclusive content) charge the most; mid-tier and FAST (free ad-supported) channels price lower.
Targeting specificity: the tighter you target, the higher the CPM.
Season: CPMs typically rise in Q4 (October–December) with holiday competition.

CTV brings TV-level impact within reach of a small-business budget. Whether it earns a place in your plan depends on your goal and budget — see CTV/OTT advertising and let the calculator weigh it for you.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How much does CTV advertising cost?

Commonly $25 to $45 CPM, with premium authenticated inventory reaching about $55 to $65. Many platforms let you start meaningfully around $500 to $1,000 a month, and some have no minimum.

Why does CTV cost more than social media ads?

You are buying the living-room screen: non-skippable ads that are nearly always watched to the end, on a channel that reaches about 87% of US households. It is still far cheaper and more targetable than traditional cable or broadcast TV.

What raises CTV advertising prices?

Premium inventory, tighter targeting and season. CPMs typically climb in the fourth quarter with holiday competition.

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