If you’ve ever wondered about the Sports Illustrated cost per issue, you’re not alone. Fans, collectors, and casual readers alike often ask whether it’s better to buy Sports Illustrated magazine one issue at a time, subscribe for a year, or opt for digital access. In 2025, pricing varies depending on format, subscription length, promotions, and whether you want print, digital, or both.
This detailed guide covers everything: single-issue cover prices, subscription costs, digital vs print editions, promotions that lower per-issue fees, and expert tips for saving money while enjoying one of the most iconic sports magazines in history.
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Why Sports Illustrated Pricing Matters
For decades, Sports Illustrated has been the go-to magazine for in-depth sports journalism, striking photography, and iconic special editions like the annual Swimsuit Issue. But as publishing moved into digital spaces, the way people buy and consume magazines changed.
Today, you can:
- Pick up a single copy at the newsstand.
- Subscribe to the print edition, delivered monthly.
- Choose a digital subscription for phones, tablets, or computers.
- Opt for combo plans that include both print and digital.
With so many options, it’s important to know what you’re paying per issue and how subscription choices affect long-term cost.
What Affects the Sports Illustrated Cost Per Issue?
1. Print vs Digital Editions
- Print copies cost more because of production, paper, and shipping.
- Digital editions are cheaper, often bundled into subscriptions at a reduced rate.
2. Subscription Length
- Monthly subscriptions cost more per issue.
- Annual or multi-year subscriptions drastically reduce the per-issue cost.
3. Promotions & Discounts
- Seasonal deals, student discounts, or bundled promotions can cut the cost per issue in half.
4. Special Editions
- The Swimsuit Issue and collector’s covers are sometimes priced higher than standard issues.
5. Location
- International subscriptions often add postage fees, raising per-issue cost compared to U.S. subscriptions.
Sports Illustrated Single Issue Cost
If you only want one or two issues a year, maybe to collect a special cover or the Swimsuit Issue, you can buy single copies.
- Average cover price (print, U.S.): ~$9.99 per issue
- Collector’s editions: $12.99–$15.99 depending on rarity
- Digital single issue: $2.50–$5.00 via digital resellers
👉 While single copies are convenient, they are the most expensive per issue compared to subscriptions.
Sports Illustrated Subscription Pricing in 2025
Here’s a breakdown of what subscriptions look like this year.
| Subscription Type | Offer (2025) | Effective Cost Per Issue | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Print + Digital (1 year) | $20 for 12 issues | ~$1.67 per issue | Best for readers who want both formats |
| Digital Only (1 year) | $15 for 12 issues | ~$1.25 per issue | Cheapest option, accessible on devices |
| 2-Year Print + Digital | $30 for 24 issues | ~$1.25 per issue | Long-term savings, stable pricing |
| Single Issue (Print) | $9.99 | $9.99 per issue | Most expensive, better for collectors |
| Student or Promo Digital Plan | ~$29 for multi-year | ~$2.44 per issue | Discounted access for students |
Print vs Digital: Which Is More Cost-Effective?
- Print: Tangible, collectible, better for those who enjoy physical magazines. Average cost per issue on subscription: ~$1.50–$1.70.
- Digital: Accessible anywhere, environmentally friendly, lowest cost per issue (~$1.25).
- Combo: Slightly higher total cost but offers flexibility for readers who want both experiences.
For value, digital subscriptions win on price, but print has sentimental and collector value.
Annual Cost Comparison
Let’s see what you’d pay in a year depending on how you buy Sports Illustrated:
- Single Issues (12 at $9.99 each) = ~$120
- 1-Year Subscription (Print + Digital) = $20
- 1-Year Digital Subscription = $15
- 2-Year Subscription (24 issues for $30) = $15 per year
👉 Subscribing saves readers 80–90% per year compared to buying single issues.
Multi-Year Subscription Benefits
Multi-year subscriptions lock in lower prices and protect against annual increases. In 2025, offers like 24 issues for $30 bring the effective cost down to ~$1.25 per issue.
Pros:
- Lowest cost per issue
- Fewer renewals to manage
- Stable pricing
Cons:
- Upfront payment required
- Long-term commitment
Promotions and Seasonal Deals
Some of the best deals appear around:
- Holiday promotions (Black Friday, New Year)
- Sports events (Super Bowl, NBA Finals, Olympics)
- Student discounts through reseller platforms
Deals can reduce cost per issue to as low as $1.00–$1.25.
Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue Cost
The Swimsuit Issue remains the most famous edition of Sports Illustrated.
- Cover price: $12.99–$15.99
- Subscription inclusion: Included in annual plans at no extra cost
- Collector’s editions: Can rise in value, often purchased separately by fans
International Pricing
Outside the U.S., costs increase:
- Canada: Add $10–$20 annually for shipping.
- U.K./Europe: Annual subscription may reach $40–$60.
- Digital editions: Best option internationally, avoiding shipping fees.
Sports Illustrated Digital Access
Digital platforms include:
- Official SI app
- Zinio
- Apple News+
- Google Play Magazines
Advantages:
- Lower cost per issue
- Instant access
- Portable
Drawbacks:
- Lacks collectible value
- Device compatibility issues for some readers
Collector’s Value vs Subscription Value
- Collectors often prefer single issues (especially Swimsuit, championship covers).
- Regular readers save with subscriptions.
- Hybrid approach: Subscribe for regular reading, buy single issues for collector’s covers.
Cost Per Issue: Sports Illustrated vs Competitors
How does SI compare to other sports magazines?
| Magazine | Subscription Price (2025) | Avg. Cost Per Issue |
|---|---|---|
| Sports Illustrated | $15–$20/year | $1.25–$1.67 |
| ESPN Magazine (legacy, now digital content only) | n/a | n/a |
| SLAM Magazine | $29.99/year (6 issues) | ~$5.00 |
| Golf Digest | $19.99/year (12 issues) | ~$1.67 |
👉 Sports Illustrated remains one of the most affordable per issue when subscribed.
Tips for Saving on Sports Illustrated
- Subscribe, don’t buy single issues – unless collecting.
- Choose digital only if you just want to read.
- Look for seasonal promos – prices drop around holidays.
- Consider multi-year plans – lowest cost per issue.
- Check student discounts if applicable.
The Future of Sports Illustrated Pricing
As magazines continue shifting digital, expect trends like:
- More bundled digital deals with other publications.
- Dynamic pricing based on special issues.
- Fewer print runs, making single copies more expensive and more collectible.
- Continued aggressive discounts on digital subscriptions to keep readership high.
Conclusion: How Much Does Sports Illustrated Cost Per Issue in 2025?
- Single issue (print): ~$9.99–$15.99
- Digital single issue: ~$2.50–$5.00
- 1-year subscription (print + digital): ~$20 ($1.67 per issue)
- 1-year digital subscription: ~$15 ($1.25 per issue)
- 2-year subscription: ~$30 total ($1.25 per issue)
Best value: Annual or multi-year subscriptions, especially digital, reduce the Sports Illustrated cost per issue by more than 80% compared to buying single copies.
For collectors, buying single issues may be worthwhile. But for most readers, subscribing is the most cost-effective and practical way to enjoy Sports Illustrated in 2025.
