Postage in the US – a Bargain ?
In a world where everything seems to be going up in price, the cost of a postage stamp remains one of the best deals around.
Even with the upcoming July 2025 rate increase, a First-Class stamp will cost just 73¢—a small price to pay to put your message directly into someone’s hands. Considering the incredible reach and impact of direct mail, it’s still a smart, affordable choice for marketers across the country.
Why Direct Mail Still Delivers
- 📬 It’s personal – Direct mail gets seen, held, and opened. It creates a tangible connection that email can’t replicate.
- 💼 It builds trust – According to the USPS, 70% of consumers say mail is more personal than online interactions. That matters when you’re trying to build a relationship with a new prospect.
- 📈 It gets results – Direct mail boasts a 9% response rate when mailed to house lists and 4.9% for prospect lists—much higher than most digital channels.
- 🔍 It’s trackable – With today’s technology, you can match back responses, use personalized QR codes, and integrate campaigns across platforms.
Postage Costs Around the World (as of 2025)
Country | Cost of Standard Letter | Approx. USD Equivalent |
United States | $0.73 (July 2025 rate) | $0.73 |
Canada | CAD $1.15 (domestic stamp) | ~$0.84 |
United Kingdom | £1.35 (1st class) | ~$1.70 |
Australia | AUD $1.50 | ~$1.00 |
Germany | €0.85 | ~$0.92 |
France | €1.29 (priority letter) | ~$1.40 |
Japan | ¥84 | ~$0.53 |
Sweden | SEK 15 | ~$1.35 |
U.S. First-Class Mail is still one of the most affordable postal services among industrialized nations. The UK, France, and Sweden all charge nearly double or more than what the USPS does. Japan has one of the lowest rates—but with fewer mail deliveries per week than in the U.S. Many countries also add surcharges for priority service or tracking, which are included by default in USPS marketing mail packages when using services like IMb tracing.
Compare the Value
Think about what 73¢ buys you these days. Not much—maybe a third of a cup of coffee or a minute of online ad exposure. But with direct mail, it buys you targeted reach, physical presence, and a real opportunity to be remembered.
Gee, maybe 73 cents isn’t so bad after all…..