Price Guide Updated January 2026

Virgin Media Price Rises: Your Rights & Options

Understanding Virgin Media's annual price increases, when they happen, how much they are, and your options for negotiating or leaving.

When Do Prices Increase?

We've helped thousands of readers understand and navigate Virgin Media price rises - here's everything you need to know.

Virgin Media increases prices once per year, typically in April. The exact date varies slightly each year, but you'll receive at least 30 days' notice before any price increase takes effect.

You'll receive a notification (usually by email and letter) from Virgin Media about 30-45 days before the increase, detailing exactly how much your bill will go up.

2026 Price Rise Formula

CPI + 3.9%

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rate used is typically from December/January

Example Calculation:

If CPI is 4% and you pay £50/month: 50 × 1.079 = £53.95/month (an increase of £3.95)

How Much Will My Bill Increase?

The increase depends on the CPI rate at the time, but here's a guide based on typical scenarios:

CPI Rate Total Increase £50 Bill Becomes £80 Bill Becomes
2% 5.9% £52.95 £84.72
3% 6.9% £53.45 £85.52
4% 7.9% £53.95 £86.32
5% 8.9% £54.45 £87.12

Your Rights During a Price Rise

Understanding your rights is important. Here's what you need to know:

When You CAN'T Leave Penalty-Free

The annual CPI-linked price rise is written into your contract terms. Because you agreed to this when you signed up, you typically cannot cancel penalty-free due to this specific price increase.

Virgin Media's contracts explicitly state that prices will rise by CPI + 3.9% each year, so Ofcom considers this an expected change rather than a material detriment.

When You CAN Leave Penalty-Free

  • If Virgin Media increases prices outside of the annual CPI increase (a mid-contract change)
  • If there's a significant change to your services that puts you at a material disadvantage
  • If you're within the 14-day cooling-off period for a new contract
  • If your minimum contract term has ended
  • If Virgin Media fails to provide the service you're paying for

How to Negotiate a Better Deal

Even though you can't leave penalty-free due to the annual price rise, you can often negotiate a better deal. Here's how:

  1. Know your current deal
    Log into My Virgin Media or check your bill to see exactly what you're paying and when your contract ends.
  2. Research competitor prices
    Look at what Sky, BT, and other providers are offering new customers. Note down specific deals to mention.
  3. Call the retentions team
    Call 0345 454 1111 and say you want to cancel. This will get you through to the retentions team who have authority to offer discounts.
  4. Be polite but firm
    Explain you've been a loyal customer but the price increase is too much. Ask what they can do to help you stay.
  5. Don't accept the first offer
    The first offer is rarely the best. Politely decline and ask if they can do better. Mention competitor deals.
  6. Be willing to walk away
    If you're out of contract, be prepared to actually leave. Sometimes the best deals come after you've set a cancellation date.

How to Leave Virgin Media

If negotiations fail and you want to leave, here's what you need to know:

If You're Out of Contract

Call 0345 454 1111 to cancel. You'll need to give 30 days' notice. There are no early termination fees if your minimum term has ended.

Tip: Even when cancelling, you may receive better offers. Some of the best deals come after you've set a cancellation date.

If You're Still in Contract

You'll need to pay early termination fees, which is typically the remaining monthly charges for your minimum term. This can be significant if you have many months left.

Calculate: Monthly fee × months remaining = approximate early termination fee

Price Rise FAQs

What is CPI and how is it calculated?
CPI stands for Consumer Price Index, a measure of inflation calculated by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). It tracks the price of a "basket" of goods and services over time. Virgin Media uses the CPI rate from around December/January for their April price rise.
Do all providers use CPI + increases?
Many UK broadband and mobile providers have adopted CPI-linked price rises. Virgin Media uses CPI + 3.9%, while others use different formulas. Some providers have moved away from mid-contract increases for new customers, so shop around if this is important to you.
Can I switch to a different Virgin Media package to avoid the increase?
You can switch to a different package, but the CPI + 3.9% increase will apply to whatever package you're on. Switching to a cheaper package can reduce your overall bill, but the percentage increase will still apply to your new price.
Does the price rise apply to phone bundles too?
Yes, if you have a mobile phone with Virgin Media (O2), the same CPI + 3.9% increase applies to your mobile airtime plan. However, the device payment portion of your bill typically remains fixed.
What if I can't afford the increase?
If you're struggling financially, contact Virgin Media to discuss your options. They may be able to offer a cheaper package, temporary discount, or payment plan. You can also ask about their social tariff (Essential Broadband) if you receive certain benefits.

Sources & References

JT

Written by James Thompson

Broadband & Home Technology Expert

James is a former broadband engineer with 10 years of experience installing and troubleshooting home internet and TV systems across the UK. He specialises in helping customers get the most from their Virgin Media services.

Last reviewed: January 2026

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