There has always been demand for astrology in the UK — think daily horoscopes printed in newspapers, personalised natal charts. But in the mobile-first age, astrology apps have become the go-to way for people to look up their star path, read their birth chart, receive a tarot reading, and analyze how signs and planets relate.
If you are looking to create an astrology app in the UK, then monetisation isn’t a luxury for your business model — it’s at its heart. Even the most visually stunning App will fail unless you have a concrete revenue strategy.
So, how does one actually make money off an astrology app? Subscriptions, à la carte reading, and bundled offerings are the three primary models. These controlled vocabulary words are used individually in some apps, and combined for maximized impact in others. It depends on your audience, what kind of content you are promoting, and how much growth you want it to get.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
- Monetisation models of astrology apps used by UK users.
- How each model operates (with examples).
- The good and bad of subscriptions, readings, and bundles.
- How to merge different models for better revenue.
- Which astrology apps are already winning popularity with these tactics?
By the end, you’ll know exactly which model (or combination of models) makes sense for your astrology app idea — and how to avoid the pitfalls that keep so many apps from getting off the ground.
So, if you are planning to develop an astrology app, here’s everything you need to know about monetizing it:
TL;DR – Key Takeaways
- There are three main models at play: subscriptions, pay-per-reading, and bundles.
- They deliver recurring revenue — and are ideal for people who read every day.
- Pay-per-reading is great for special occasions or personalised guidance.
- Packages drive up ARPU and bring in casual users by giving them choice.
- Hybrid models can mix various types of users and maximize revenue.
- A combination of these models is employed by such popular apps as Co–Star, The Pattern, and Nebula.
- UK concerns: GDPR, age ratings, payment security, and cultural relevance.
Popular Monetisation Models for Astrology Apps
As far as business models for astrology apps in the UK are concerned, three strategies reign supreme. Both have advantages, disadvantages, and use cases. Picking the right one (or mixing and matching) is crucial if you want your App to actually make money over time.
Subscriptions (Monthly or Annual)
Perhaps the most prevalent model is that users pay a flat recurring amount for unlimited access to premium astrology content.
How it works: Free daily horoscopes are the bait; more thorough (birth charts, compatibility reports, and tarot spreads) are behind a paywall.
Why it works in the UK: Astrology is becoming increasingly mainstream. Subscriptions produce a regular source of revenue from this behavior.
Average price bracket: £5–£15 a month, or £50–£120 per year.
Pay-Per-Reading
Rather than a monthly fee, users pay for an individual reading or live consultation.
How it works: Offers an in-app marketplace for users to book a live astrologer, tarot reader, or natal chart prepared by an astrologer.
Why it’s working in the UK: Appeals to users who value added extras but don’t want a subscription, but will pay for special events or personal achievements.
Cons: Income may be inconsistent unless working with another model.
Bundled Packages
Bundles are a more content offer — like the monthly horoscope report + compatibility chart + 1 tarot session live.
How it works: Customers pay discounted prices for a certain number of sessions.
Why it works in the UK: The bundling concept is particularly appealing to a casual astrology fan who doesn’t want to settle for one thing.
Example: £30 for a “Starter Pack” — one natal chart, compatibility report, and live reading.
Subscription-Based Astrology Apps
Subscriptions are the bread and butter of many astrology apps because they deliver a predictable, repeatable stream of money. It provides financial immunity for the creators and founders. And it gives users continuous access to personalized insights, rather than requiring that they pay each time.
Benefits for Users
- Unlimited access: Users receive daily horoscopes, monthly reports, and compatibility readings with no restrictions.
- Convenience: Forget about micro payments for each resource.
- Worthwhile cost: A flat fee, whether monthly or annual, can feel like a bargain if the user becomes heavily involved.
Benefits for Businesses
- Income: Credit card billing provides ongoing cash flow.
- More retention: It’s harder for subscribers to cancel because they’re committed.
- Scalable model: You are not limited to small apps, nor do you have to begin creating big platforms.
Examples of Subscription Structures
- Monthly access: £5–£10 per month for unlimited reports and insights.
- Annual access: £60-£100 per year, often at a discounted price.
- Three tiers of subscription: Basic (daily horoscope readings), Standard (personalised astrological reports), and Premium (including either one or two live readings per month).
Why Subscriptions Work for Astrology Apps in the UK
Astrology is habit-driven. Customers open the App every day to read fortunes, every week to see how they match with their partner, and every month for deeper insights. Such consistent usage is ideal for subscription-based monetisation.
Pay-Per-Reading Model
Not every astrology lover wants to take out a subscription, however. Others want to pay only when they’re seeking a certain insight — and that’s where the pay-per-reading model comes into play. As in the UK, it is popular with flexible users.
How It Works
Users peruse a catalogue of services within the App — tarot spreads, birth chart readings, compatibility checks, or live video calls with astrologers.
Each of these services has a fixed price (£5 for a compatibility check, £20 for a full natal chart, £30–£50 for a live video session).
Payment is made immediately through in-app purchase systems such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal.
Benefits for Users
Flexibility: Choose what they want when they want it.
No commitment: perfect for casual users.
Personalisation: Custom readings are perceived as being more “premium” than automated horoscopes.
Benefits for Businesses
High margins on live services: One-on-one sessions or premium reports can be priced well above subscriptions.
Draws the looky-loos: It brings more than subscribers into your fold.
Upsell potential: Customers might be asked to take a one-time reading or two and be pointed to bundles or subscriptions.
Challenges with Pay-Per-Reading
Irresolute revenues: Revenue is not stable like subscriptions.
Attracts the looky-loos: You get more people than just subscribers coming into your fold.
User exhaustion: The users may not want to buy again if the price is high.
The pay-per-reading model is most effective for astrology apps that market themselves as “premium services” to be enjoyed once in a while, rather than daily utilities. It’s something that many successful apps mix with subscriptions or bundles for balance.
Bundled Packages & Hybrid Models
Bundle: Packages of multiple astrology offerings bundled together at a special price! For UK users, this model also plays out well because it seems like they’re getting “more for less” even as businesses then end up hiking average revenue per user (ARPU). Many apps also use hybrid models, combining subscriptions with bundles and one-off readings to reach as many customers as possible.
How Bundled Packages Work
A package could be: a year’s worth of monthly horoscope reports + compatibility chart + one live tarot session.
They make a single pre-paid charge, say £30–£50 for all the services in that bundle.
Bundles can be sold once-off or subscription-based (i.e., monthly/quarterly).
Benefits for Users
Variety: They can sample various astrology services without paying for each one individually.
Value: When purchased as a bundle, there’s generally a discount when compared to buying each piece separately.
Options: Packages can be tailored to beginners, advanced users, or even couples.
Benefits for Businesses
Higher ticket sales: Bundling leads to customers spending more on the front end.
Cross-selling: Exposes users to services they may not have been inclined to purchase separately.
What makes it sticky: Monthly renewal packages attach users to the App.
Examples of Hybrid Models
Subscription + Live Reading Credits: A £10/month subscription and discounted credits for live astrologer sessions.
Bundle + Subscription: Sell a single-time “Starter Pack” with recurring monthly subscriptions.
Seasonal Bundles: Special astrology kits that center around things going on, such as the New Year, Mercury retrograde, and also Vday.
You leave flexibility to bundled models and hybrids — you can attract casual users with packages and satisfy loyal readers by offering them subscriptions or pay-per-anything features.
How to Combine Monetisation Models
Most successful astrology apps employ not just one monetisation model at the same time. They create a fusion of subscriptions, pay-per-reading, and bundles to maintain different types of customers within their flow. In the UK, where viewers include casual horoscope checkers as well as serious astrology enthusiasts, fusing models can drive a significant increase in revenue.
Subscription + Pay-Per-Reading
A basic subscription includes daily horoscopes, monthly reports, and compatibility connections, while paying by reading grants access to premium one-on-one chats.
- Example: Users pay £7 a month for unlimited content, but access to a live tarot session is an additional £25.
- Why it works: predictable recurring income + high-margin additional sales.
Subscription + Bundles
Subscribers get in, but some special bundles are available as “limited-time offers.”
- Example: A Valentine’s Day package that includes compatibility reports + love-focused tarot readings for a single price you’ll love.
- Why it’s effective: Encourages urgency and provides more sources of revenue over existing costs.
Bundles + Live Premium Sessions
Users purchase a package (for example, natal chart + compatibility report) and add on discounted live astrologer sessions.
- An example: £ 40′ baby bundle’ + £20 optional live consultation.
- Why it works: It lets casual users play around, keeping things deep for serious enthusiasts.
Why Combining Models Works Best
- Various user types: Some want daily horoscopes, others will only pay on their birthday.
- Revenue maximized: Maximum revenue from casual, regular, and premium spend users.
- Cuts down on churn: Consumers can drop to a bundle or à la carte purchase, instead of cancelling altogether.
For astrology apps, perhaps the sweet spot is a hybrid approach: do a subscription to provide stability, plus pay-per-reading and bundles for upsell and seasonal revenue.
How to Choose the Right Model for Your Astrology App
In a world with so many options for monetisation, the issue isn’t being aware of what’s out there — it’s deciding which model is going to be most effective for your astrology app. The correct option is based on your audience, the kind of content you have, and how much in the long term.
Understand Your Target Audience
- Casual users: They will read daily horoscopes, but aren’t such big spenders. Here, a freemium + subscription model is most appropriate — providing basics for free, with the choice to upgrade.
- Interested hobbyists: Customers interested in detailed natal charts or compatibility readings might pay for packages or a la carte reading services.
- Seekers, not cheap-os: Some people prefer to have direct contact with the astrologer. For those people, they can have sessions on video at a higher cost and generate a lot of revenue.
Match Model to Content Type
- Daily horoscopes & month reports for paid $ → subscriptions.
- Custom charts & tarot spreads → great for pay-per-reading.
- Classes, workshops & seasonal special offers → work really well as packages.
Consider Long-Term Growth
Subscriptions offer stability and a predictable monthly income.
Pay-per-reading generates high-margin revenue, but can be inconsistent.
Bundles inject seasonal spikes and pull in new users.
Tip: Successful astrology apps begin small (subscription or pay-per-reading based) and layer in bundled purchases as they grow.
Test and Optimise
You don’t have to commit yourself from day one to a single model.
- Start out with one or two techniques.
- Quantify the rate of conversion through A/B testing.
- Monitor LTV by user segments.
- Adapt pricing and packages for UK customer habits.
Finding the best monetization model is not about shooting and hoping. It’s about making sure your App’s contents line up with what your audience cares most about — and being willing to remain nimble as you evolve.
Popular Astrology Apps & Their Monetisation Models
Letting you take the reins of actual examples sheds light on just how various monetisation models play out. Here are some of the UK and world’s best-known astrology apps, and their revenue streams
| App | Monetisation Model | How It Works | Takeaway |
| Co–Star | Freemium + Subscription | Free daily horoscopes; premium reports and compatibility insights require a subscription. | Scales well for mass-market — free users convert to recurring subscribers. |
| The Pattern | Free Basic Access + Paid Reports | Daily cycles are free; detailed personality or compatibility reports sold as one-off purchases. | Strong pay-per-reading model for users who avoid subscriptions. |
| Sanctuary | Live Readings + Subscription Bundles | Free daily content; live astrology/tarot sessions (£20–£40) + subscription bundles. | Blends subscription + pay-per-reading for predictable + premium income. |
| AstroMatrix | Free App + In-App Purchases | Free horoscopes; advanced natal charts and transit analysis require in-app purchases. | Effective freemium model, converting casual users into buyers. |
| Nebula | Subscription-First | Limited free content; strong push for monthly/annual subscriptions (£7–£15/month). | Classic subscription strategy with upsells for extra guidance. |
Additional Revenue Streams
Besides subscriptions, readings, and bundles, astrology apps can tap into a handful of additional monetization channels. These ones work specifically well in the UK because people are open to spiritual products and classes, & high-ticket consultations.
| Revenue Stream | How It Works | Pros | Cons | Best For |
| In-App Advertising | Display ads (banner, interstitial, native) inside the free app version. | Generates income from free users. | Can feel intrusive if overused. | Apps with large free user bases (daily horoscope checkers). |
| Affiliate Marketing | Partner with brands (books, crystals, meditation apps) and earn referral commissions. | Expands revenue without new product development. | Only works if partnerships align with user interests. | Niche UK astrology apps targeting enthusiasts. |
| Premium Consultations | One-to-one astrology/tarot sessions at premium rates (£30–£100). | High-margin sales, adds exclusivity. | Requires astrologer availability & scheduling system. | Platforms positioning as expert-led astrology services. |
| Digital Products & Courses | Sell ebooks, guides, or workshops on astrology. | One-time effort, ongoing passive income. | Needs upfront content creation. | Apps with engaged users interested in deepening astrology knowledge. |
UK-Specific Considerations
When monetising astrology apps for the UK audience, it’s not just about pricing models. Local regulations, cultural behaviour, and payment preferences all play a major role in how successful your app will be. Here are the key points to keep in mind.
Cultural Demand for Astrology
Astrology has a long history in the UK, from horoscope columns in tabloids to online compatibility checks. Today, younger audiences (especially Gen Z and Millennials) are driving app usage.
- Insight: UK users expect astrology apps to feel modern, mobile-friendly, and accessible on-demand.
- Tip: Offering free daily horoscopes can act as a gateway to paid subscriptions or bundles.
Age Ratings & Compliance
App stores require age-appropriate content ratings. Since astrology apps sometimes involve “fortune telling,” developers need to ensure responsible positioning.
- Best practice:
- Rate apps 12+ or 16+ to avoid issues with minors.
- Comply with UK GDPR for user data, especially when processing birth dates and times.
- Be transparent about what is entertainment vs professional advice.
- Rate apps 12+ or 16+ to avoid issues with minors.
Payment Preferences in the UK
UK users are comfortable with digital payments but prefer convenience and security.
- Popular options: Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and debit/credit card integrations.
- Best practice:
- Offer flexible payment frequencies (monthly/annual subscriptions, one-off bundles).
- Use Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) to meet PSD2 requirements.
- Offer flexible payment frequencies (monthly/annual subscriptions, one-off bundles).
Competition & Market Maturity
The UK astrology market is crowded, with global apps like Co–Star and Nebula dominating, but there’s still space for niche offerings.
- Tip for new apps: Differentiate with localised content — e.g., UK-based astrologers, British cultural references, or seasonal events like Summer Solstice readings.
In short: UK users value convenience, transparency, and secure payments. Meeting cultural expectations and compliance standards is just as important as choosing the right monetisation model.
Common Mistakes in Astrology App Monetisation
Even with strong demand in the UK, many astrology apps fail to maximise revenue because of avoidable mistakes. If you’re planning to monetise, here’s what to watch out for.
1. Over-Reliance on Ads
Some apps flood free users with ads, hoping to earn quick income.
- Problem: intrusive ads drive users away and damage trust.
- Better approach: keep ads light and combine them with subscriptions or bundles.
2. Complicated Pricing Structures
If users can’t quickly understand what they’re paying for, they won’t convert.
- Problem: offering too many tiers, unclear benefits, or hidden restrictions.
- Better approach: simple options like “Free / Monthly / Annual” or “Bundle vs Single Purchase.”
3. Ignoring Free Trial or Freemium Entry Points
UK users often want to try before they buy.
- Problem: pushing paid features immediately without offering free horoscopes or trial reports.
- Better approach: offer a free tier (daily horoscope) or 7-day trial to build trust.
4. Neglecting Compliance in Payments
Failing to meet UK payment and GDPR rules can cause serious issues.
- Problem: skipping SCA (Strong Customer Authentication) or unclear consent forms.
- Better approach: follow PSD2/SCA rules and ensure GDPR compliance in data handling.
5. Forgetting Long-Term Retention
Many apps focus on acquisition but ignore retention.
- Problem: users download, try one reading, then uninstall.
- Better approach: keep users engaged with daily content, personalised offers, and seasonal bundles.
The takeaway: Monetisation isn’t about squeezing users — it’s about offering value clearly and consistently, while balancing compliance and customer trust.
Why Partner with Bestech Solutions – Astrology App Development Company UK
Designing an astrology app is one thing — making it profitable is another. To succeed in the UK market, you need a partner that not only understands astrology app development but also the nuances of subscriptions, pay-per-reading models, and bundled monetisation strategies. That’s where Bestech Solutions comes in.
Why Choose Bestech Solutions?
- End-to-End Expertise – From initial strategy to launch, we guide you through the entire app development process.
- Monetisation Strategy – We help you implement the right mix of subscriptions, bundles, and one-off readings tailored to your audience.
- Compliance First – Every astrology app we build aligns with UK GDPR, App Store policies, and secure payment regulations (PSD2/SCA).
- Integration Ready – Payment gateways (Stripe, PayPal, Apple/Google Pay) and third-party scheduling tools for live readings.
- Scalable Solutions – Whether you’re building an MVP or a full-featured platform, we design apps that grow with your user base.
If you’re serious about launching or scaling an astrology app, partner with Bestech Solutions — the UK’s trusted astrology app development company. Together, we’ll create an app that users love and one that delivers steady, scalable revenue for your business.
Conclusion
Astrology apps aren’t just about horoscopes anymore — they’re full-fledged platforms where users pay for deeper insights, personalised reports, and even live guidance. Whether you choose subscriptions, pay-per-reading, bundles, or a hybrid model, the key is to align monetisation with your audience’s needs.
In the UK, where astrology is woven into culture and digital adoption is strong, the opportunity is ripe. By keeping pricing simple, content fresh, and payments secure, your app can attract both casual horoscope readers and dedicated astrology followers.
And with the right partner — like Bestech Solutions, a UK-based astrology app development company — you can not only launch your app but also scale it with the right monetisation model, ensuring it delivers real value to users and revenue to your business.
FAQs
Q1: What is the best monetisation model for astrology apps in the UK?
It depends on your audience. Subscriptions work for daily users, pay-per-reading fits occasional users, and bundles appeal to those wanting variety. A hybrid model often works best.
Q2: How much can astrology apps charge for subscriptions?
Most UK apps charge between £5–£15/month or £50–£120/year, with tiered options for extra features.
Q3: Can I combine different monetisation models?
Yes, many successful apps blend subscriptions with pay-per-reading or bundles to maximise revenue and cater to different user types.
Q4: Are astrology apps subject to compliance rules in the UK?
Yes. You must follow UK GDPR for data privacy, PSD2/SCA for payment security, and app store guidelines for age ratings.
Q5: Why should I choose Bestech Solutions for astrology app development?
We’re an experienced UK app development company with expertise in astrology apps, secure payment integrations, and monetisation strategy design.
