Wondering if your membership needs multiple tiers—or if one price is enough?

You’re not alone. Many business owners second-guess this decision, wondering if they’re missing out on revenue or reach by not offering different levels.

Tiers can be helpful. But only if they serve your members—and your energy.

Let’s break it down.

This post is based on Episode 8 of my upcoming podcast, Beyond 1:1, launching soon! If you want to be the first to know when it’s live, join my email list.

 

Do You Actually Need Multiple Tiers?

Before you add multiple tiers because “that’s what memberships do,” pause and ask:

• Do I actually have distinct types of members with different needs? 
• Would this create a clear upgrade path—or just complicate things? 
• Can I realistically deliver on each level without burning out?
  

If most members would benefit from the same access, one tier is usually the simplest (and most sustainable) path.

More options don’t always mean more value. Sometimes they just mean more confusion—for you and your people.

 

The Three Most Common Membership Tier Structures

If you decide multiple tiers make sense for your membership, here are three ways to structure them effectively:

Option 1: Basic + Premium

✨ Two levels, one upgrade path.

Example:

• Basic ($30/month): Access to content + community 
• Premium ($100/month): Everything in Basic + coaching calls + exclusive tools 

Best if: You know some members want to DIY, while others want your brain in the mix.

 

Option 2: The Stepladder Model (Three Tiers)

✨ Built-in progression for different stages.

Example:

• Starter ($25/month): Content access 
• Growth ($75/month): Content + live support 
• VIP ($200/month): Everything + 1:1 coaching or premium bonuses 

Best for: Memberships with multiple levels of support over time.

👉 You’ll need clear boundaries and systems to deliver this sustainably.

 

Option 3: One Tier + Optional Add-Ons

✨ Simple for you, flexible for them.

Example:

• Core ($50/month): Access to foundational content 
• Add-ons: Private sessions, workshops, templates (priced separately) 

Best for: When your audience mostly needs the same support—but a few folks want more without complicating the core.

💡 Pro tip: This is a great entry model when you’re still testing or launching slow.

 

How to Pick the Best Option for Your Membership

When choosing your membership structure, ask:

• Does this feel manageable? (Not just exciting) 
• Will I have the capacity to deliver each tier consistently? 
• Does this help or hinder the member experience? 
• Would I enjoy running this model a year from now?

Start simple. You can always add more later.

 

Small Step You Can Take Today

Take a look at your membership idea and ask:

• Would multiple tiers serve your members—or just add noise? 
• If I offered tiers, could I clearly explain the difference between them? 
• Could I deliver each tier without overcomplicating my calendar? 

If you’re leaning toward “simple,” go with one clear offer.
If you can confidently tier, just make sure each one feels distinct, valuable, and doable.

 

What’s Next?

Tiers are just one piece of the puzzle.
Up next: how to actually run your membership in a way that doesn’t take over your life.

Because your time matters, too.

This post is based on Episode 8 of Beyond 1:1, my podcast for wellness practitioners who want to expand beyond private sessions. The podcast is launching soon – join my email list to be notified!