The newspaper with the highest print circulation in the United States in the six months running to September 2023 was The Wall Street Journal, with an average weekday print circulation of 555.2 thousand. Ranking second was The New York Times, followed by The New York Post. The paper in the ranking with the highest year-over-year drop in circulation was The Denver Post with a decline of 25 percent (although Buffalo News recorded a higher drop, data does not refer to September 2022 to September 2023, see notes).

According to most recent market data, newspaper circulation revenue worldwide was forecast to amount to **** billion U.S. dollars in 2024. As print circulation has gradually fallen each year, from over ** billion USD in 2019 to just over ** billion in 2023, digital circulation continues to grow.

The circulation figures for daily newspapers in the United States reveal that USA Today distributed the most papers as of January 2019, with a daily circulation of over 1.62 million. Back in September 2017, The Wall Street Journal ranked first, with circulation figures far outperforming The New York Times, Chicago Tribune and New York Post. Although the 2019 data shows that all daily newspapers in the top ten ranking saw a decrease in circulation since 2017, the Chicago Tribune was hit the hardest. Despite making the top ten list in both years, the paper’s daily circulation decreased by almost 200 thousand.

The decline of newspaper circulation

It is no secret that print is floundering whilst at the same time digital media is flourishing. However, the impact of falling circulation figures on newspapers has an effect on advertising revenue, as circulation is one of the metrics used to determine and set advertising rates. In 2017, the estimated revenue of newspaper publishers in the United States was almost seven billion dollars lower than in 2010, despite several years of reasonably consistent revenue in terms of subscription and sales.

Similarly, print newspaper publishing revenue in the U.S. dropped by almost ten million dollars in seven years, whilst revenue for online newspapers showed positive growth.

Dataset from Singapore Department of Statistics. For more information, visit https://data.gov.sg/datasets/d_72a8dfb96e2272b69bdc4e4561ea0ae8/view

From 1994 to 2023, Medianorway was an information centre for facts about Norwegian media. The purpose was to make Norwegian media statistics available via one central source, and to document Norwegian media development through the systematic collection of media data. After more than twenty years of work, it has become a comprehensive collection of information about the Norwegian media sector.

Data on Norwegian newspapers compiled from various sources by Medianorway, University of Bergen 1994-2023. The data consist of long time series including statistics on newspaper readership, newspaper circulation, number and types of newspapers, owners and economy. The data are organised as prepared tables in Excel. Information about data sources and methodology is included.

The data is a compilation of statistics gathered from different sources with varying methods. The specific methods used are described inside the datafiles.

The data is freely available to download and can be found below in the folder "Related documents and other materials".

The US Newspapers in the American South, 1869-1896 data collection contains the number and circulation of non-daily newspapers in each of the 11 former Confederate States of America in 1869 and every presidential year between 1872 and 1896, inclusive. The raw data come from two annual directories of US newspapers: George P. Rowell and Company's (Rowell's) American Newspaper Directory (1869-1876) and N.W. Ayer and Son's (Ayer's) American Newspaper Annual (1880-1896). Variables in this collection include newspaper names, year established, political party affiliation, subscription price, and language.

2016

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Newspaper Publishing Market Size 2025-2029

The newspaper publishing market size is forecast to increase by USD 4.12 billion, at a CAGR of 1.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is witnessing contrasting trends, with the increasing demand for newspapers in developing countries counterbalanced by the declining circulation of printed newspapers in mature markets. This dichotomy presents both opportunities and challenges for market participants. On the one hand, the growing adoption of subscription models, fueled by digital advancements, offers a potential revenue stream for publishers in both developed and developing economies. In developing countries, the expanding middle class and rising literacy rates are driving demand for news content, creating a fertile ground for newspaper growth. However, the declining circulation of printed newspapers in mature markets poses a significant challenge.
This trend is primarily attributed to the increasing preference for digital news sources and the convenience they offer. To navigate this challenge, publishers must adapt by focusing on their unique value proposition, such as in-depth analysis, investigative journalism, and local coverage, which cannot be easily replicated in digital formats. Additionally, they must explore innovative business models, such as paywalls and membership programs, to monetize their digital offerings. In conclusion, the market is undergoing a transformation, shaped by the contrasting trends of growing demand in developing countries and declining circulation in mature markets. To succeed, publishers must effectively leverage digital technologies while maintaining their unique value proposition and exploring innovative business models.

What will be the Size of the Newspaper Publishing Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The market continues to evolve, with dynamic market activities unfolding across various sectors. Circulation management and SEO optimization are crucial aspects of the industry, ensuring accessibility and discoverability of editorial content for diverse audiences. Paper quality and printing technology advancements continue to shape the landscape, with user interface (UI) and image resolution playing significant roles in enhancing reader experience. Public discourse is increasingly influenced by digital publishing, as news agencies embrace multimedia content and video journalism. Freemium models and subscription tiers are transforming revenue streams, while ink technology innovations optimize print production. Media convergence and information literacy are vital in navigating the complexities of news consumption trends.

News innovation and emerging media are driving new opportunities for content creators, with media literacy and audience engagement becoming essential components of the user experience (UX). Page layout and advertising revenue are being reimagined, as media bias and economic impact are subjects of ongoing debate. Civic engagement and cultural impact are at the forefront of news reporting, with online news platforms and audience targeting shaping public discourse. Content personalization and content licensing are key strategies for media companies, as they navigate the evolving media landscape. Press releases and public relations remain essential tools for communication, while investigative journalism continues to uncover truth and hold power to account.

How is this Newspaper Publishing Industry segmented?

The newspaper publishing industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Platform

  Traditional
  Digital


Type

  General news
  Specific news


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    Spain
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  Rest of World (ROW)

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By Platform Insights

The traditional segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic landscape of newspaper publishing, the traditional segment continues to hold significance with its print format, offering a tangible and immersive reading experience. Newspapers in this category are produced on paper and disseminated through various distribution channels, including newsstands, retail outlets, and subscriptions. The print medium's appeal lies in its harmonious blend of editorial content, multimedia elements, and advertisements, which cater to diverse reader preferences. The integration of technology in the publishing industry has brought about transformative changes. SEO optimization and digital literacy have become essential

Free newspaper Metro had the highest reported circulation among daily newspapers in the United Kingdom in December 2023 with *** thousand copies distributed to the public. Ranking second with a paid circulation of *** thousand was the Daily Mail, followed by free paper Evening Standard with a circulation of *** thousand. Due to the Sun, Times and Telegraph titles having kept their circulations private since the beginning of 2020, comparing circulations across major news brands has grown more difficult. The Guardian also chose to keep its circulation figures private and as such is not included in this analysis. Daily papers published on Sundays only can be found here. Newspapers in the UK   Expenditure on newspapers in the UK decreased consistently over the last few decades. In 2005, annual spending on newspapers exceeded *** billion British pounds, whereas by 2020 this figure had fallen considerably to *** billion GBP. Despite this, newspapers remain important to consumers. A survey held in the United Kingdom found that the Daily Express was considered the most important newspaper to readers, whilst titles from the Sun lagged behind in this respect. When it came to popularity and the public's opinion of selected major newspapers, commuter paper Metro was the favorite. Data found that Metro was the most popular newspaper in the UK, followed closely by The Guardian. Metro enjoys a wide readership thanks to its regular distribution in London, and remains free to readers.

United States PPI: Pulp: PPM: Newspapers: Circulation data was reported at 385.800 1982=100 in Sep 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 384.900 1982=100 for Aug 2018. United States PPI: Pulp: PPM: Newspapers: Circulation data is updated monthly, averaging 207.300 1982=100 from Dec 1980 (Median) to Sep 2018, with 454 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 391.300 1982=100 in Jun 2018 and a record low of 85.400 1982=100 in Dec 1980. United States PPI: Pulp: PPM: Newspapers: Circulation data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bureau of Labor Statistics. The data is categorized under Global Database’s USA – Table US.I017: Producer Price Index: By Commodities.

Malaysia Average Daily Newspaper Sales: Malay data was reported at 655,773.000 Unit in Feb 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 671,262.000 Unit for Jan 2018. Malaysia Average Daily Newspaper Sales: Malay data is updated monthly, averaging 1,685,944.500 Unit from Jan 1989 (Median) to Feb 2018, with 350 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 2,182,065.000 Unit in Mar 2008 and a record low of 655,773.000 Unit in Feb 2018. Malaysia Average Daily Newspaper Sales: Malay data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Department of Statistics. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Malaysia – Table MY.H022: Average Daily Newspaper Sales.

Combining comprehensive data from the Norwegian media market on newspaper circulation, readership, revenues, factor inputs, and product characteristics with plausibly exogenous variation in the availability and adoption of broadband internet, this paper provides causal evidence on how the internet affected the traditional print media market. Household adoption of broadband internet triggered large reductions in print readership and circulation and equally large increases in online news readership. Despite strong substitution from print to online news consumption, newspaper firms’ revenues fell by almost 30%. Newspaper firms responded by dramatically cutting costs, either by shedding labor inputs or by reducing the physical size of newspaper sheets, and in doing so avoided meaningful losses in profits. The printed newspaper product available to customers also changed, as newspapers shifted content away from tabloid to more serious news. This paper offers a case study on how an adverse technology shock transmits through firms with multiple margins of adjustment, and provides an explanation for the economic resilience of newspapers.

Malaysia Average Daily Newspaper Sales data was reported at 1,773,326.000 Unit in Feb 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,814,204.000 Unit for Jan 2018. Malaysia Average Daily Newspaper Sales data is updated monthly, averaging 3,380,087.000 Unit from Jan 1989 (Median) to Feb 2018, with 350 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 4,151,416.000 Unit in Mar 2004 and a record low of 1,773,326.000 Unit in Feb 2018. Malaysia Average Daily Newspaper Sales data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Department of Statistics. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Malaysia – Table MY.H022: Average Daily Newspaper Sales.

Malaysia Average Daily Newspaper Sales: English data was reported at 410,052.000 Unit in May 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 409,595.000 Unit for Apr 2018. Malaysia Average Daily Newspaper Sales: English data is updated monthly, averaging 936,681.000 Unit from Jan 1989 (Median) to May 2018, with 353 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,104,088.000 Unit in Jun 2002 and a record low of 409,595.000 Unit in Apr 2018. Malaysia Average Daily Newspaper Sales: English data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Department of Statistics. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Malaysia – Table MY.H022: Average Daily Newspaper Sales.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, Die Welt had a paid circulation of roughly ****** copies. This timeline shows data on the sales volume development of the daily newspaper Die Welt in Germany from the fourth quarter of 2016 to the fourth quarter of 2024.

As of January 2025, La Prensa – published by Organización Editorial Mexicana (OEM) – had an average daily circulation of ***** thousand, ranking third on a list of paid daily newspapers. It was estimated that overall newspaper revenue in Mexico would add up to *** million U.S. dollars in 2027. The future of newspapers in Mexico Almost one out of five internet users surveyed in Mexico paid for digital news in early 2024, the second-highest percentage in the Latin America region. The willingness to pay for quality information also paves the way for the segment at large. The print newspaper revenue in Mexico was forecast to decline by *** percent between 2022 and 2025, whereas the digital subsegment was projected to grow by more than ** percent. There is also a sign that the prestige of print has translated into the online environment. At the beginning of 2024, the leading online news brands in Mexico by weekly reach were the web versions of physical newspapers, such as El Universal or the websites of local newspapers. News consumption in Mexico also going digital News consumption in Mexico remains high, especially via digital platforms. Early 2024 data shows that the internet, including social media, is the go-to news source for ** percent of respondents in the country. In comparison, only ** percent of news consumers in Mexico used print media for this purpose and ** percent watched TV to get the news. Facebook leads the pack among other social networks used to access news, followed by YouTube and WhatsApp.

The circulation sales by type of format by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS 51111) for Newspaper publishers which include all members under Circulation Sales, every two years (dollars) for five years of data.

The breakdown of total sales by North American Industry Classification System (NAICS 51111) for Newspaper publishers which include all members under Sales, every two years (percent) for five years of data.

This dissertation addresses the questions of what kind of political information is provided by media outlets and how media environments affect electoral politics. In my first essay, I investigate the effect of the entry of television on U.S. presidential elections from 1944 to 1964. I first show that television increases the importance of the national economy. Second, I show that television weakens the relationship between the circulation of partisan newspapers and the party vote share. In addition, I show that the crowding out of political information by television does not drive these results. I find that television is not associated with a drop in newspaper circulation and people are just as likely to read about campaigns in newspapers when television becomes available. These findings suggest that television can be a valuable source of political information. In the second essay, coauthored with Angela Fonseca Galvis and James Snyder, we study the effect of competition on media bias in the context of U.S. newspapers in the period 1870-1910. Our results indicate that partisan newspapers cover scandals involving the opposition party's politicians more intensely and cover scandals involving their own party's politicians more lightly. More importantly, we find evidence that competition decreases the degree of media bias. The point estimates suggest that compared to a newspaper in a monopoly position, a newspaper facing two competitors will on average exhibits less than 50% as much overall bias in coverage intensity. In the third essay, I study whether newspaper coverage of scandals can help voters punish the party of politicians involved in a scandal. I focus on the US House of Representatives from 1982 to 2004. I use the congruence between newspaper markets and congressional districts as a measure of newspaper coverage of scandals. I show that newspapers write more stories about representatives involved in a scandal in districts that are more congruent. I find that the parties in scandals suffer moderately in elections. More importantly, my results suggest that the parties in scandal do worse in districts/counties with higher congruence: they get fewer votes and are less likely to win.

Consumers from the United Kingdom were most likely to turn to the BBC for news, with 47 percent of respondents in a survey from February 2025 stating that they accessed it for news and information. ITV and Sky News were other leading offline news brands in early 2025, with penetration of 22 percent and 15 percent respectively.