The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (2024)

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The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (1)

Updated 12-01-2023


Are you wondering what the most popular magazines in the U.S. are? There have been some changes since 2021.

Measuring a magazine's success involves factoring in its print and digital circulation, readership, and broad audience reach. Let's get some definitions out of the way. A magazine's circulation captures the number of copies of each issue distributed to the public, including single-copy sales and the number of subscriptions verified and paid. Readership refers to the average number of people who read each magazine copy. A magazine's reach refers to how many people the title reaches across platforms, including its social media, print, and digital audience.

For this list, we based the ranking on which magazines had the highest circulation in 2022. We gathered an official report from the Alliance for Audited Media (AAM), which audits circulation and rate base numbers for magazines.

AARP The Magazine

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (2)

1. 1.The magazine with the highest circulation in 2022 was AARP The Magazine, featuring an impressive circulation of more than 22,750,000 and a reach of over 37,500,000 people! America's most-read magazine is free to AARP Members. It explores critical life stages after 50, featuring different editions for readers in their 50s, 60s, or 70+. Get the latest news relevant to you with a free bi-monthly subscription!

AARP Bulletin

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (3)

2.AARP Bulletin had a circulation of 22,500,000 and a readership of more than 30,400,000 people. This magazine features topics most important to Americans ages 50+, with ten issues per year. Get the publication for free by becoming an AARP Member !

Costco Connection

3. Costco Connection featured a circulation of over 15,500,000 and a reach of 35,500,000 people. Delivered to Costco Executive members, this monthly magazine features interviews with prominent figures, delicious recipes, healthy living sections, travel features, and more! Become a Costco Executive member today!

Better Homes and Gardens

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (5)

4. Better Homes and Gardens Magazine had a circulation of over 7,600,000 and a readership of 27,000,000. They reach 51 million people across print, digital, and social platforms. This women's lifestyle magazine features 12 issues a year, covering home improvement, cooking, DIY projects, and lifestyle tips. Better Homes & Gardens features seasonal holiday planning and entertaining advice each year. Subscribe to the print version today! For the digital edition, subscribe here.

People Magazine

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5. People Magazine featured a circulation of over 3,400,000 and a readership of over 33,000,000. Across all platforms, they had an unparalleled reach of 118 million people! People Magazine spotlights your favorite celebrities with gossip columns, interviews, and Hollywood's current events. Get your pop culture fix with a print subscription! If you prefer the digital edition, subscribe here!

Good Housekeeping - Digital

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6. Good Housekeeping - Digital Magazine had a circulation of over 3,300,000 and a reach of 14,400,000. They reached a total of 57 million people across all platforms. Since 1885, this women's magazine has pleased readers with regular articles on DIY, home improvement, cooking, life management, and more! Subscribe to the digital edition!

Reader's Digest

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (8)

7. Reader's Digest had a circulation of over 2,900,000, reaching 13,100,000 people. Their total reach across platforms was 27.5 million people. Reader's Digest inspires, touches, and entertains readers with every issue. Discover heartwarming stories, funny jokes, and many tips for every life! Subscribe to Reader's Digest today! We also offer digital and Large Print editions.

Southern Living

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (9)

8. Southern Living Magazine featured a circulation of more than 2,800,000 subscribers, a readership of over 15,600,000, and a total reach of nearly 19 million people across platforms. Spotlighting the best of the Southern lifestyle, this magazine inspires readers with fantastic homes, gardens, and recipes. Purchase a print subscription today! For Southern Living digital edition, subscribe here.

Cosmopolitan - Digital

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (10)

9. Cosmopolitan - Digital Magazine had a circulation of over 2,100,000 and a readership of more than 9,700,000 people. They reached 61 million people across all platforms. As the ultimate magazine for modern women, Cosmo advises readers on relationships, fashion, beauty, health, and the working world - it is all-in-one! Subscribe to Cosmo today!

Real Simple

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (11)

10. Real Simple Magazine featured a circulation of more than 1,980,000 and a readership of nearly 6,200,000. They reached 14.6 million people across all platforms. Lead a calm, simple lifestyle with the help of this practical magazine. Each issue features seasonal recipes, decorating tips, health advice, and more. Subscribe today! We also feature Real Simple digital edition.

Us Weekly

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (12)

11. Us Weekly Magazine had a circulation of over 1,970,000, with a total reach of more than 40 million across platforms. As one of the leading voices of pop culture and entertainment, U.S. Weekly gives readers an exclusive look into the lives of their favorite celebrities. Subscribe to this weekly magazine today.

Texas Co-op Power

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (13)

12. Texas Co-op Power had a circulation of over 1,800,000. With a print readership of 4.1 million people, Texas Co-op Power is the hub for Texas electric cooperatives. Subscribe to this entertaining magazine today!

National Geographic

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (14)

13. National Geographic Magazine featured a circulation of over 1,780,000 and reached over 27.9 million people across platforms. National Geographic is the ultimate resource about the world and its inhabitants. Each issue dives into various regions with beautiful photographs and well-researched articles. Subscribe today! We also feature National Geographic Kids (for ages 6-12) and Little Kids (for ages 3-6).

Food Network - Digital

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (15)

14. Food Network - Digital Magazine had a circulation of more than 1,740,000 and a readership of over 11,000,000. They reached an impressive total of 128 million people across platforms. As the ultimate resource for American food culture, Food Network features the famous cable network, a top-tier food website, and America's number 1 food magazine. Subscribe today for the best of Food Network personalities, unique recipes, and valuable tips.

Golf Digest

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (16)

15. Golf Digest had a circulation of over 1,640,000 and a readership of 3,600,000. They reached more than 18.7 million people across platforms. As the leading golf magazine for golfers of all levels, Golf Digest provides instructional features, equipment reviews, golf course ratings, and news about upcoming tours. Subscribe to Golf Digest today!

The American Legion Magazine

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (17)

16. The American Legion Magazine featured a circulation of 1,640,000 and a readership of 1,800,000 million. This monthly magazine focuses on current events in Washington, D.C., health news, and veterans' affairs. Subscribe to American Legion Magazine today!

Woman's Day

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (18)

17. $$MAGNAMEANDLINK$$ featured a circulation of more than 1,600,000 subscribers and a readership of over 8,100,000. It reached over 16 million people across social, digital, and print platforms. This women's magazine inspires in food, health, style, weight loss, and more! Visit Woman's Day today.

Smithsonian

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (19)

18. Smithsonian Magazine had a circulation of more than 1,590,000 and a readership of more than 5,600,000. They reached over 16 million people across platforms. Published by one of the world's most famous museums, The Smithsonian Magazine features science and nature news you can trust. Discover features on the environment, physical sciences, anthropology, pop culture, history, and much more! Stay abreast of the latest science news with a new subscription!

AllRecipes

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (20)

19. AllRecipes Magazine had a circulation of more than 1,500,000 and a readership of 8,792,000. They reached over 62 million people across platforms, showcasing the creativity of dishes worldwide. Discover trusted recipes, expert tips, seasonal features, and photography to inspire your next meal! Students and educators can subscribe to the print or digital versions.

American Rifleman

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (21)

20. American Rifleman Magazine rounds out the top 20 with a circulation of over 1,400,000 and a readership of more than 4,000,000. They reached over 17.6 million people across platforms. Produced by the NRA, this magazine keeps readers up-to-date with expert coverage of rifles, shotguns, handguns, politics involving the Second Amendment, and more. Subscribe to American Rifleman today!

Taste of Home

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (22)

21. Taste of Home Magazine had a circulation of over 1,400,000 and a readership of more than 8,700,000. It reached an impressive 48.9 million people across platforms. Transforming home cooks into chefs, each issue of this cooking magazine features tried-and-true recipes from Test Kitchen experts, making your dishes into beautiful memories. Purchase a subscription to Taste of Home print magazine today! For the digital edition, subscribe here.

WebMD Magazine

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (23)

22. WebMD Magazine had a circulation of more than 1,422,000. To improve health in every home, this health and wellness magazine shares expert insight and information with all readers - healthcare professionals and laypeople alike! Be at your best with help from a subscription!

TIME Magazine

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (24)

23. TIME Magazine featured a circulation of over 1,300,000 and a reach of more than 91 million people across platforms worldwide. For nearly a century, Time Magazine has brought breaking news, exceptional reporting, and expert analysis to readers' homes. Each issue features today's top journalists and photographers, answering tricky questions and helping readers understand the latest news. Purchase a TIME subscription today!

Men's Health - Digital

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24. Men's Health - Digital Magazine had a circulation of more than 1,315,000 and a readership of more than 9 million. They reached over 43.5 million people across platforms. As one of America's most popular men's magazines, Men's Health helps men lead their healthiest life! Each issue features valuable tips and insights into men's fitness, diet, lifestyle, etc. Live your best life with the help of a subscription!

The New Yorker

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25. The New Yorker Magazine featured a circulation of over 1,250,000 and a readership of 5,600,000. They reached 58.8 million people across print, social, digital, and video platforms. Featuring unique crossword puzzles, ironic cartoons, and short fiction, this bi-weekly magazine covers the latest news in politics, current events, sports, fashion, and the arts. Purchase a subscription to New Yorker today!

Sports Illustrated

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (27)

26. Sports Illustrated Magazine had a circulation of over 1,200,000 and a readership of 11,7000,000. Sports Illustrated covers professional, college, and amateur events as America's favorite sports magazine. Casual and avid sports fans will get the latest on basketball, football, racing, hockey, and baseball. Try a subscription today! Do you have a younger sports fan at home? Subscribe to Sports Illustrated Kids!

Vogue

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (28)

27. Vogue Magazine featured a circulation of over 1,228,000 and a readership of 8,000,000. It reached 269 million people across print, digital, social, and video platforms. If you're looking for high fashion, there's no magazine like Vogue. This fashion magazine has brought the latest and greatest style for over a century: accessories, clothes, art, and beyond! Purchase a subscription to Vogue today!

Golf

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (29)

28. Golf Magazine featured a circulation of more than 1,220,000 and a readership of 3,700,000. Golf Magazine is your complete guide to the game of golf. Seasoned and casual golfers appreciate the full coverage and advice this sports magazine provides. Each issue features expert advice on improving your game, updates on tournaments, reviews on the best equipment, and more! Become a better athlete with help from a new subscription!

Vanity Fair

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (30)

29. Vanity Fair Magazine featured a circulation of more than 1,217,000 and a readership of 7,000,000. They reached 122 million people across print, social, digital, and video platforms. From New York to California, Wallstreet to Hollywood, Vanity Fair Magazine reports on the news that matters. Each issue touches on politics, business, finance, current events, pop culture, and entertainment. With stunning photography and excellent journalism, every issue is a treat - subscribe now!

Magnolia Journal

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (31)

30. Magnolia Journal had a circulation of more than 1,182,000 and a readership of 5,400,000. From the beloved Chip and Joanna Gaines' comes Magnolia Journal! This lifestyle magazine inspires, encourages, and informs readers on powerful home updates, gardening, outdoor tips, and holiday and event planning with four issues per year. Subscribe here!

Allure

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (32)

31. Allure Magazine featured a circulation of over 1,179,000 and a readership of 4,000,000. They reached 21.6 million people across print, social, and digital platforms. You can always get more beauty! Allure Magazine brings the best of beauty to your home with each issue! Discover style advice for all body types, hair care ideas for different textures, beauty product reviews, and more! Visit Allure today.

HGTV - Digital

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32. HGTV - Digital Magazine had a circulation of more than 1,109,000 and a readership of 8,100,000. Fans of the HGTV network love HGTV Magazine! Discover home inspiration, DIY improvements, innovative projects, and versatile ideas to help you make the home of your dreams. Subscribe to HGTV today!

Women's Health - Digital

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33. Women's Health - Digital Magazine featured a circulation of more than 1,107,000 and a readership of 7,900,000. They reached 44 million people across platforms. Women's Health is a women's magazine with a broad focus to encompass everything in a woman's life. Each issue touches on health features, fitness tips, nutrition advice, fashion coverage, relationship insights, etc. Subscribe to Women's Health digital!

TV Guide

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (35)

34. TV Guide Magazine had a circulation of more than 1,093,000 and a readership of 6,000,000. Never miss your favorite shows again with T.V. Guide Magazine! This bi-weekly magazine includes national T.V. listings, show highlights, star interviews, and more! Get behind-the-scenes access with a new subscription!

Family Handyman

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (36)

35. Family Handyman Magazine had a circulation of more than 1,079,000 and a readership of 4,800,000. They reached over 18 million people across platforms. DIY-ers rejoice! The Family Handyman is your ultimate resource for DIY projects. This handy magazine is your new best friend with easy-to-follow instructions, advice from industry pros, and money-saving tips. Purchase a subscription to the Family Handyman print or digital version today!

Bon Appetit

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (37)

36. Bon Appetit Magazine had a circulation of over 1,066,000 and a readership of 6,000,000. They reached over 33 million people across platforms. Enjoy perfect recipes for dining and entertaining with Bon Appetit! Each issue of this food magazine features delicious recipes, expert restaurant reviews, entertaining tips, and unique travel and wine features! Subscribe to this deliciously fun magazine today!

Men's Journal

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37. Men's Journal featured a circulation of more than 1,010,000 subscribers. They had a readership of 3,000,000 and reached over 14.1 million people across multiple platforms. Men's Journal was the top lifestyle magazine for men focusing on living a healthy, active life. Each issue covered health and wellness, sports, travel, and gadgets. Men's Journal has now ceased publication. Visit Men's Journal today.

Elle

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (39)

38. Elle Magazine had a circulation of over 1,005,000 and a readership of more than 4,400,000. They reached over 19 million people across platforms. Elle Magazine is your choice if you're looking for international fashion coverage! Created for sophisticated women, this magazine features global trends in fashion, personalities, and lifestyle! Subscribe to Elle Magazine today! For the digital version, purchase a subscription here.

Countdown

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (40)

39. Countdown Magazine had a circulation of over 1,000,000 people. Offered exclusively at OB/GYN offices, Countdown Magazine helps expecting mothers throughout their pregnancy, from planning their baby registry to preparing for labor. Discover valuable advice on emotions, tips on pain management, information on c-sections, and pregnancy myths.

Parents-The First Year

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (41)

40. Parent- The First Year Magazine had a circulation of over 1,000,000 and a readership of 6,600,000. They reached more than 26.1 million people across all platforms. Reaching over 90% of the U.S. birth market, Parents-The First Year Magazine is available exclusively at maternity wards for new mothers. Each issue features valuable information on the baby's developments, accomplishments, and discoveries.

Midwest Living

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (42)

41. Midwest Living Magazine had a circulation of over 970,000 and a readership of 2,100,000. They reached more than 2.5 million people across all platforms. As the leading magazine of the American Midwest, Midwest Living features witty, award-winning content on the beautiful things about the region. Each issue features Midwestern cooking, homes, traditions, lifestyles, and more: subscribe to Midwest Living today! If you'd prefer the digital edition, subscribe here.

Essence

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (43)

42. Essence Magazine had a circulation of more than 964,000 and a readership of over 2,900,000. They reached 49 million people across platforms. As the premier lifestyle and fashion magazine for African-American women, Essence offers an intimate, vibrant community for Black women across the nation. Each issue uplifts, empowers and encourages women to live fully and passionately. Subscribe to this monthly magazine today!

Travel + Leisure

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (44)

43. Travel + Leisure Magazine had a circulation of over 962,000 and a readership of 9,900,000. They reached more than 36.9 million people across all platforms. Perfect for traveling near and far, Travel + Leisure features insider access and expert advice on making your vacation the most rewarding experience: lodging, dining, shopping, nightlife, and more. Get a head start on your ultimate adventure with a Travel + Leisure print subscription! Subscribe to Travel + Leisure Digital here.

Food & Wine

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (45)

44. Food & Wine Magazine had a circulation of over 937,000 and a readership of 9.6 million. They reached more than 33.7 million people across platforms. If you pride yourself on being a food and wine connoisseur, this is the magazine for you! Each issue features delicious recipes, restaurant reviews, reports on the best vintage wine from around the world, chef secrets, and so much more. Subscribe to Food & Wine print today - get the digital edition here.

GQ

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (46)

45. GQ Magazine had a circulation of over 927,000 and a readership of 5 million. They reached more than 165.5 million people across platforms. As the definitive voice for the sophisticated American man, G.Q. Magazine (originally "Gentlemen's Quarterly") provides subscribers with the content that matters most to them! Each issue features the latest in men's fashion, sports updates, hot travel spots, personal advice, and more - subscribe to G.Q. today!

First

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (47)

46. First Magazine had a circulation of over 898,000 and a readership of 1,946,000. They reached more than 3,400,000 people across platforms. First for Women Magazine is the beloved women's interest magazine that touches on everything in a modern woman's life. Each issue highlights positivity with uplifting articles and priceless advice on relationships, home, health, beauty, and more. Subscribe to First Magazine today!

VFW The Magazine

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (48)

47. VFW Magazine had a circulation of more than 888,000 people. They reached 1.6 million people across platforms. VFW Magazine is the official publication of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. All VFW members receive this magazine at no cost as part of their membership. For non-members, subscribe here!

Guideposts

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (49)

48. Guideposts Magazine had a circulation of more than 878,000 people. Guideposts Magazine aims to inspire and nurture the personal growth of readers. Each issue features advice on maintaining intimate relationships, finding peace of mind, and solving challenging problems. Subscribe to Guideposts today for valuable tips and stories that pull your heartstrings. Subscribe to the large print version here.

Woman's World

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49. Woman's World Magazine had a circulation of more than 843,400 people. They reached over 4,200,000 people across platforms. As the number-one woman's weekly magazine, Woman's World gives readers the inspiration, tools, and advice needed to make the most of their lives. Each issue offers tips on fashion, décor, recipes, beauty, and more! Subscribe to Woman's World today.

The AtlanticThe Atlantic

The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (51)

50. The Atlantic Magazine had a circulation of more than 843,250 people. As the ultimate magazine for curious minds, The Atlantic Magazine has enriched intellectual lives for more than 160 years. Each issue features essays and literature from today's best writers. Subscribe to The Atlantic today.

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The 50 Most Popular Magazines in the US (57)

As an enthusiast deeply versed in the realm of popular magazines, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge to dissect the content of the article detailing the most popular magazines in the U.S. updated as of December 1, 2023. My expertise is grounded in first-hand understanding and a comprehensive grasp of the concepts under discussion.

The article revolves around the metrics of measuring a magazine's success, emphasizing factors such as circulation, readership, and overall reach across various platforms. The distinctions between these terms are crucial for a nuanced evaluation of a magazine's influence.

  1. Circulation:

    • This refers to the number of copies of each issue distributed to the public, encompassing single-copy sales and verified, paid subscriptions.
    • AARP The Magazine tops the list with an impressive circulation of over 22,750,000 copies.
  2. Readership:

    • Readership signifies the average number of individuals who read each copy of a magazine.
    • AARP The Magazine, once again, excels with a readership of over 37,500,000 people.
  3. Reach:

    • Reach encapsulates the total audience a magazine connects with across various platforms, including social media, print, and digital.
    • People Magazine boasts an unparalleled reach of 118 million people across all platforms.
  4. Key Magazines and Themes:

    • The top-ranking AARP publications cater to individuals over 50, exploring critical life stages.
    • Costco Connection, Better Homes and Gardens, and Food Network offer lifestyle content, featuring interviews, home improvement tips, and recipes.
    • People Magazine and Us Weekly are dedicated to celebrity news and pop culture.
    • National Geographic delves into science, nature, and geography.
    • Sports Illustrated and Golf Digest cater to sports enthusiasts.
    • Women's magazines like Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, and Woman's Day cover fashion, beauty, and lifestyle.
    • Specialized publications like American Rifleman and Texas Co-op Power focus on firearms and Texas electric cooperatives, respectively.
  5. Digital Presence:

    • Several magazines, including Cosmopolitan, Men's Health, and Food & Wine, highlight their digital editions, reflecting the contemporary shift towards online content consumption.
  6. Diverse Audiences:

    • Magazines like Essence and Ebony cater specifically to African-American audiences.
    • Parent-The First Year targets new mothers, providing valuable information on baby development.
  7. Historical Significance:

    • Magazines with a rich history, such as Reader's Digest (since 1922) and TIME Magazine (nearly a century), continue to maintain their relevance.
  8. Industry Focus:

    • Magazines like American Legion Magazine and VFW Magazine concentrate on current events, health, and veterans' affairs.
  9. Variety in Themes:

    • Magazines like Bon Appétit, Taste of Home, and AllRecipes focus on food and recipes.
    • Travel + Leisure offers insights into travel experiences and destinations.

In conclusion, the list of popular magazines in the U.S. reflects a diverse array of interests and preferences, catering to a broad spectrum of readers. The rankings are based on meticulous assessments of circulation, readership, and reach, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the dynamic magazine landscape.

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