Most expensive Netflix original series 2023, by production cost per episode

"Stranger Things" was by far the most expensive Netflix original series as of September 2023, with estimated production costs of around 30 million U.S. dollars per episode. "One Piece" and "The Sandman" rounded out the top three at 18 million and 15 million U.S. dollars, respectively.

Are the production costs worth it?

Original content is one of Netflix's biggest draws and success factors. In addition to acquiring sought-after shows and movies, Netflix has also been dedicating larger budgets to producing and promoting its own content to remain competitive in today's crowded streaming space. In late 2021, eight out of the 10 most-watched original streaming series titles in the U.S. were produced by Netflix, with the crime drama series "Narcos: Mexico" amassing the most viewing minutes.

Netflix originals are critically acclaimed

Netflix's original content has not only proven successful with audiences but also with critics. Over the past few years, more Netflix titles have received nominations for the world's most acclaimed award ceremonies than ever before, proving that cinematic excellence is not necessarily tied to cinematic releases. In 2022, Netflix scored an impressive 27 nominations at the Academy Awards while also boasting the most Golden Globe wins among all film distributors that year. "The Power of the Dog," a Western drama starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Kirsten Dunst, even brought home the Golden Globe in the prestigious Best Motion Picture (drama) category.