GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Magazine Circulation Statistics: Market Report & Data

Highlights: Magazine Circulation Statistics

  • In 2020, the magazine with the highest circulation in the U.S. was 'AARP The Magazine', with over 23 million distributed copies.
  • Time magazine's circulation has dropped to approximately 2 million copies in 2020 from a peak near 20 million in the 1990s.
  • The combined average print and digital circulation of Consumer Reports stood at approximately 6 million in 2018.
  • Better Homes & Gardens magazine had a circulation of about 7.6 million in 2020.
  • 'National Geographic' averaged a total paid and verified circulation of approximately 1.1 million in the second half of 2020.
  • The 'People' magazine had a weekly circulation of approximately 3.42 million copies in the U.S in 2020.
  • Good Housekeeping magazine had a circulation of about 4.1 million in September 2020 down from 4.2 million in 2019.
  • Family Circle, a magazine founded in 1932, had a declining circulation and eventually ceased publication in December 2019.
  • In 2019, the 'Economist' reported a global circulation of 1.6 million copies.
  • As of June 2020, Reader's Digest had a monthly circulation of about 2.7 million copies in the United States.
  • ESPN The Magazine ceased publication in 2019 after experiencing sharp circulation falls from a peak of over 2 million to around 2,141,668 in 2018.
  • US Weekly had a circulation of about 1.22 million in the U.S. in 2020.
  • Forbes magazine had an annual average circulation of 936,753 in 2019.
  • Smithsonian magazine had a circulation that stood at around 2 million in 2018.
  • Vogue magazine's circulation was about 1.1 million copies as of 2020.
  • In 2018, the New Yorker had a weekly circulation of 1,227,958 copies at the end of the first half of the year.
  • Glamour magazine ceased its regular print schedule in 2018, at that time it had a circulation of about 2.2 million copies.
  • Men's Health magazine had a circulation of about 1.8 million in the United States as of 2020.
  • In 2020, Parade magazine had a circulation of about 21.5 million copies.
  • Cooking Light magazine's circulation in the US had decreased from 1.8 million in 2014 to 1.48 million in 2017.

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Delve into the intriguing world of Magazine Circulation Statistics with us, as we explore an often overlooked but essential component of the publishing industry. Those unassuming figures reveal a wealth of information—be it about a magazine’s popularity, market competitiveness, reader demographics, or trends in consumer behavior. This blog post will guide you through the nuances of these statistics, offering an in-depth interpretation of what they mean, and more importantly, how they can strategically empower publishers and advertisers to enhance their business strategies and customer engagement. It’s time to unlock the story the numbers are telling.

The Latest Magazine Circulation Statistics Unveiled

In 2020, the magazine with the highest circulation in the U.S. was ‘AARP The Magazine’, with over 23 million distributed copies.

Examining the case of ‘AARP The Magazine’ and its substantial distribution of over 23 million copies in 2020 unveils insightful facets of the magazine circulation landscape in the U.S. This paramount figure not only highlights the magazine’s impressive reach and influence among its target audience, but it further signifies that despite a widespread digital shift, traditional magazines hold potent relevance and efficacy. Thus, this data point serves as a vital benchmark, shaping our comprehension of success metrics within the complex dynamics of magazine publishing and consumer engagement.

Time magazine’s circulation has dropped to approximately 2 million copies in 2020 from a peak near 20 million in the 1990s.

The dramatic plunge of Time magazine’s circulation from its zenith of nearly 20 million in the 90s to a relatively scant 2 million in 2020, serves as a stark testament to the dwindling stature of print media. This throwback underlines the precipitous shift of consumers towards digital platforms, notably evoking the reality of pliability or extinction prevalent in any industry. In the context of the blog post, this statistic provides a crucial perspective on the rate and magnitude of this phenomenon, becoming an emblematic reference point for anyone analyzing or interested in understanding Magazine Circulation Statistics.

The combined average print and digital circulation of Consumer Reports stood at approximately 6 million in 2018.

The statistic that ‘The combined average print and digital circulation of Consumer Reports stood at approximately 6 million in 2018.’ offers a vivid snapshot of the evolving media landscape. It underscores the prominence that this popular consumer-focused magazine has managed to maintain in an era defined by digital disruption, demonstrating that influential publications can effectively straddle print and digital realms. By achieving such high circulation figures, Consumer Reports also proves the ongoing relevance and trust readers place in magazines for reliable information. This figure, thus, paves the way for an insightful discussion on how magazines like Consumer Reports are adapting and thriving amidst changing reader habits in our blog post about Magazine Circulation Statistics.

Better Homes & Gardens magazine had a circulation of about 7.6 million in 2020.

Highlighting the impressive 2020 circulation figure of 7.6 million for Better Homes & Gardens magazine serves as a testament to the enduring appeal and relevance of print magazines in a digitally dominated age. In a discussion about magazine circulation statistics, this figure catapults the magazine to the upper echelons of its industry, solidifying its standing among readers and advertisers. Moreover, it showcases the strength of niche-specific content which caters to distinct audience interests like home improvement and gardening, in driving high circulation rates despite the prevalent trend towards digital media. The case of Better Homes & Gardens, thus, accentuates the dynamic nature of print media consumption and provides a rich reference point in the ongoing discourse about the future of printed magazines.

‘National Geographic’ averaged a total paid and verified circulation of approximately 1.1 million in the second half of 2020.

Imparting an integral perspective within a blog post about Magazine Circulation Statistics, the data that ‘National Geographic’ averaged a total paid and verified circulation of approximately 1.1 million in the second half of 2020 serves as a beacon of resilience for print media in the digital age. Navigating in a sea of online content, this figure not only attests to the enduring appeal of this reputed magazine amid intense competition, but also underlines its influence and solid readership base. Hence, this statistic commands attention as a focal point for discussions around magazine circulation trends, reader engagement and strategies for sustaining print publications in today’s connected world.

The ‘People’ magazine had a weekly circulation of approximately 3.42 million copies in the U.S in 2020.

Highlighting the weekly circulation of ‘People’ magazine, which astonishingly stood at 3.42 million copies in the U.S in 2020, offers a valuable snapshot of the distribution and readership strengths within the magazine industry. This figure not only establishes ‘People’ magazine as a dominant player, but adroitly underscores the enduring relevance of magazines amidst an increasingly digital world. This compelling statistic, serving as a benchmark, could be utilized by other publishers to gauge their success, as well as by advertisers to select an ideal platform for reaching the extensive, committed audience that ‘People’ magazine retains.

Good Housekeeping magazine had a circulation of about 4.1 million in September 2020 down from 4.2 million in 2019.

Peering into the lens of magazine circulation statistics and audience trends, the slight dip in the circulation of Good Housekeeping magazine–from 4.2 million in 2019 to 4.1 million in September 2020–presents an intriguing narrative. It dances to the rhythm of shifting reader demographics and changing consumption habits, notably in an era increasingly dominated by digital media. This 2.38% decrease, though modest, is a meaningful reflection of either audience engagement with the content or the challenges print media is grappling with. Thus, this figure stands as a vital reference point and a subtle warning signal for other magazines and stakeholders, shedding light on the need for responsive strategies and innovations in content delivery.

Family Circle, a magazine founded in 1932, had a declining circulation and eventually ceased publication in December 2019.

The narrative journey of Family Circle, once a celebrated magazine established in 1932 that succumbed to a failing circulation, eventually folding in December 2019, is a pivotal highlight in a blog post dealing with Magazine Circulation Statistics. This crucial statistic illuminates an increasing trend of print media consumption’s gradual decline, marking it as a rich, informative reference point for readers examining the shifting landscape of the magazine industry. Especially relevant in an era characterized by digital dominance, this datum encapsulates the struggle of long-running print institutions in retaining user engagement and their fight for survival in an increasingly online world.

In 2019, the ‘Economist’ reported a global circulation of 1.6 million copies.

Telegraphing recent industry patterns, a striking figure emerges from the ‘Economist,’ which boasted a global circulation of 1.6 million copies in 2019. This noteworthy number underscores the continued relevance and reach of print media in an era where digital platforms are expansively proliferating. It offers a testament to the sustained readership, popularity, and impact of established magazines, setting a benchmark for others in the media landscape. Within the context of magazine circulation statistics, this statistic embodies the resilience and potential longevity of traditional media even as it navigates the bustling crossroads of an increasingly digital world.

As of June 2020, Reader’s Digest had a monthly circulation of about 2.7 million copies in the United States.

In the unfolding narrative of magazine circulation statistics, the compelling tale of Reader’s Digest’s performance offers a distinctive chapter. With its impressive footprint of approximately 2.7 million copies circulating monthly in the United States as of June 2020, the seasoned publication demonstrates not just a robust audience engagement, but also a lingering popularity in a print industry grappling with digital competition. This trendsetting statistic highlights the Digest’s endurance and continues to set the bar for print publications seeking to thrive in an increasingly digital age.

ESPN The Magazine ceased publication in 2019 after experiencing sharp circulation falls from a peak of over 2 million to around 2,141,668 in 2018.

The surprising downturn of ESPN The Magazine, which once boasted a circulation peak exceeding 2 million, yet dwindled to around 2,141,668 in 2018, ultimately leading to its cessation in 2019, paints a vivid picture of the dynamic landscape in magazine circulation. This statistic is a potent illustration anchoring a blog post on magazine circulation statistics, concisely exemplifying the direct correlation between declining circulation figures and magazine longevity, and spotlighting the harsh reality even for well-established giants within the industry. This distinct example vividly underscores the crucial importance of maintaining consistent circulation numbers in the volatile world of magazine publishing.

US Weekly had a circulation of about 1.22 million in the U.S. in 2020.

The statistic indicating US Weekly’s circulation of approximately 1.22 million in 2020 is striking in the landscape of Magazine Circulation Statistics. It offers an insightful lens into the fluctuating dynamics and trends within the publishing industry, particularly at a time when digital media is prolific. This figure underscores the enduring relevance and popularity of print media—as exemplified by US Weekly—in captivates millions of readers, despite the surge of online platforms. Furthermore, it provides a benchmark for other publications to gauge their performance and set targets, underscoring the competitive nature of the industry. In essence, it paints a vivid picture of the pulse of the magazine circulation status quo in a pivotal year.

Forbes magazine had an annual average circulation of 936,753 in 2019.

Unveiling the prowess of Forbes magazine in the territory of print media, an intriguing facet unfolds itself — the impressive annual average circulation of 936,753 in 2019. Such illustrious numbers not only underpin the enduring relevance of physical magazines in a progressively digital age, but also highlight Forbes’ position as a key player in the industry. When navigating the wider landscapes of Magazine Circulation Statistics, this potent figure serves as a noteworthy benchmark, inherent with meaningful insights into reading habits, audience preference, and market share, thereby granting a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the industry’s dynamics.

Smithsonian magazine had a circulation that stood at around 2 million in 2018.

In an era where digital media is often hailed as king, the healthy circulation figures of Smithsonian magazine provide compelling evidence to the contrary. A circulation volume of 2 million in 2018 implies that not just hardcopy magazines, but unique, informative content holds undying appeal. As a cornerstone in your blog post about Magazine Circulation Statistics, this figure asserts a sense of solidity and trust in traditional print media, spotlighting the continuing relevance and reach of magazines in a nearly ubiquitously digital world.

Vogue magazine’s circulation was about 1.1 million copies as of 2020.

Unfurling the flag of supremacy among the print media, Vogue magazine’s 2020 circulation score of approximately 1.1 million copies serves as a pulsating heartbeat in the world of magazine circulation statistics. Embedded in this figure is not just the influence and reach of Vogue, but also the overall resilience of the printed page amid an increasingly digital landscape. This data offers insights into readership trends, aids in tracking the performance of the publishing industry, and provides useful context for advertisers. Hence, Vogue’s robust circulation underpins the relevance of print media and its enduring appeal to audiences, a vital discussion point in any exploration of magazine circulation statistics.

In 2018, the New Yorker had a weekly circulation of 1,227,958 copies at the end of the first half of the year.

Emphasizing the significance of the concrete figure, the New Yorker’s weekly circulation stood impressively at 1,227,958 copies by the mid-point of 2018. Such a statistic forms a critical cornerstone in assessing the ongoing relevance and popularity of printed periodicals in the digital age. This metric not only shows the New Yorker’s robust readership, but also portrays the potent vitality of the magazine industry against the onslaught of digitization. In the realm of Magazine Circulation Statistics, this communicates a compelling narrative about consumer behavior, readership loyalty, and the enduring appeal of tactile reading material. It strengthens the argument that, even in an era dominated by online content, traditional print media still holds a prized place in readers’ habits and hearts.

Glamour magazine ceased its regular print schedule in 2018, at that time it had a circulation of about 2.2 million copies.

Highlighting the notable statistic of Glamour magazine’s circulation of 2.2 million copies at the time of its print cessation in 2018 presents a striking example of the fluctuating dynamics in the magazine industry. In a blog post about magazine circulation statistics, it offers a tangible evidence to the shifting reader preferences and publishing landscapes, showing just how a widely circulated publication had to adapt to digital revolution. It allows readers to contemplate on the tangible impacts of digital media on traditional print outlets, setting just the right tone for a detailed exploration of contemporary circulation trends.

Men’s Health magazine had a circulation of about 1.8 million in the United States as of 2020.

Highlighting the remarkable circulation statistics of Men’s Health magazine, which stands at around 1.8 million in the United States as of 2020, vividly illustrates not only the enduring relevance of print media in a digital age but also the specific appeal of health and wellness content among male readers. This figure serves as a powerful testament to the magazine’s widespread influence and effective dissemination of health information, supplying bloggers and marketers with invaluable insight into prevailing trends and potential target demographics in the challenging landscape of magazine readership.

In 2020, Parade magazine had a circulation of about 21.5 million copies.

Highlighting Parade magazine’s circulation of approximately 21.5 million copies in 2020 is a staggering testament to the persistent vitality and relevance of print media, despite the digital era’s progressive dominance. In a blog post about Magazine Circulation Statistics, this statistic significantly amplifies the conversation on the continuing sway of print magazines, demonstrating the sheer volume of readership and influence traditional print media can still command. Its impressive circulation certainly benchmarks the discussion on popular demand, consumer preference, and market survival strategies for magazines in the dynamic media landscape.

Cooking Light magazine’s circulation in the US had decreased from 1.8 million in 2014 to 1.48 million in 2017.

From a vantage point of activity within the publishing sphere, Cooking Light magazine’s recorded a shrink in U.S. circulation from 1.8 million to 1.48 million between 2014 and 2017, as an indicator of shifting consumption patterns. In a landscape that is evolving under the influence of digitization, this statistic forms an integral part of a diagnostic exploration into the vitality of print magazines. It charts not just the trajectory of one magazine but also carries broader implications for publishers, suggesting a reassessment of marketing strategies, the balance between print and digital content, as well as the appeal and relevance of their product. This decrease, observable in quantifiable terms, enhances the legitimacy of arguments prefaced on a decline in magazine readership, setting the foundation for an engaging blog post on magazine circulation statistics.

Conclusion

The data on magazine circulation statistics provides intriguing insights into public reading trends and preferences. While there may be a perceptible decline due to increasing reliance on digital platforms, print media still claims a significant audience. Consumer, trade, and professional magazines continue to offer valuable content, influencing and informing millions of readers. The statistics underscore the enduring relevance of print media in our digital age, illustrating the complex and shifting landscape of reader engagement.

References

0. – https://www.www.fipp.com

1. – https://www.www.adweek.com

2. – https://www.www.nytimes.com

3. – https://www.www.statista.com

FAQs

What is magazine circulation?

Magazine circulation is the number of copies distributed on average for each issue of a particular magazine, whether sold or given away for free. It can be a useful measure of the magazine's popularity and reader reach.

How is magazine circulation calculated?

Magazine circulation is calculated by adding the total number of copies sold to individuals or businesses, the number of copies used for promotional purposes, and the number of copies distributed for free. The total is then divided by the number of issues published in that time period.

What is the difference between total circulation and paid circulation?

Total circulation refers to all copies distributed, including those sold (either individually or through subscription) and those distributed for free. Paid circulation, on the other hand, only includes copies that readers actually purchase, excluding any free or promotional copies.

Why is magazine circulation information important for advertisers?

Magazine circulation figures provide advertisers with crucial insights into the readership base, including the size, demographic characteristics, and geographic dispersion. High circulation implies that more people will see the ads, boosting the advertising effectiveness and potential sales generated from the advertisements.

How often is magazine circulation usually measured?

Magazine circulation is typically measured and reported either biannual or quarterly, depending on the publication. This information is audited by independent bodies like the Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC), and it's critical for setting advertising rates and strategies.

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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