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.
Want the number that fits your market and goal? Run the free advertising budget calculator.
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, often ~$20–$35.
- Targeting specificity: the tighter you target, the higher the CPM.
- Season: Q4 (October–December) CPMs typically rise 20–40% with holiday competition.
CTV is one of the fastest-growing channels for local businesses because it brings TV-level impact to 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.
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