PO Box Cost: Size, Price & How To Rent

Kim Anderson

-Nov 1, 2025

Are you wondering about the cost of renting a PO Box? In this guide, we'll break down the pricing, sizes, and how to rent a PO Box, so you can make an informed decision. We'll explore the factors influencing PO Box costs and provide insights into whether it's the right choice for your needs.

What is a PO Box?

A PO Box, or Post Office Box, is a secure, rentable mailbox located within a post office facility. Individuals and businesses can rent these boxes to receive mail and packages. PO Boxes offer a stable and secure mailing address, which can be especially useful for those who move frequently or need a separate address for business purposes.

How Much Does a PO Box Cost?

The cost of a PO Box varies depending on the size of the box and the rental period. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers different sizes and rental terms, which affect the overall price. Generally, you can expect to pay between $50 and $600 per year for a PO Box. Here's a more detailed breakdown:

PO Box Size and Pricing

The USPS offers five PO Box sizes, each with varying dimensions and prices: — Universal Studios Orlando: A Thrilling Adventure

Extra Small: Suitable for letters and small items.
Small: Good for a moderate amount of mail.
Medium: Ideal for small packages and larger mail volumes.
Large: Best for businesses or individuals receiving many packages.
Extra Large: For very high mail and package volumes.

Rental Periods and Costs

Rental periods typically range from 3, 6, or 12 months. Longer rental periods often come with a lower monthly rate. Here’s an estimated cost range for each rental period:

3 Months: $20 - $150
6 Months: $40 - $300
12 Months: $50 - $600

Factors Influencing PO Box Costs

Several factors can affect the cost of renting a PO Box:

Location: Prices can vary based on the post office's location and demand. High-demand areas may have higher rates.
Size: Larger PO Boxes cost more than smaller ones due to the increased space.
Rental Period: Longer rental periods often come with discounted rates.
Additional Services: Some post offices offer additional services like 24-hour access or package acceptance, which may increase the cost.
Availability: Limited availability in certain locations can drive up prices.

Why Rent a PO Box?

Renting a PO Box offers several benefits:

Security

PO Boxes provide a secure location for your mail, protecting it from theft or misdelivery. This is particularly important if you live in an area with high package theft rates.

Privacy

A PO Box can help protect your privacy by providing an alternative to your home address. This is useful for businesses, freelancers, and individuals who prefer not to share their residential address.

Stability

If you move frequently, a PO Box ensures you have a consistent mailing address. This avoids the hassle of changing your address with multiple senders each time you relocate. — Anna Kochanius On OnlyFans: Exploring The Platform

Business Use

For businesses, a PO Box provides a professional mailing address separate from a home address. It can also be used to manage business correspondence and receive packages.

How to Rent a PO Box

Renting a PO Box is a straightforward process:

Check Availability: Visit the USPS website or your local post office to check PO Box availability.
Choose a Size: Determine the appropriate size based on your mailing needs.
Select a Rental Period: Choose a rental period that suits your requirements.
Complete an Application: Fill out the application form (PS Form 1093) either online or at the post office.
Provide Identification: You'll need to provide valid photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport.
Pay the Fee: Pay the rental fee based on the box size and rental period.
Receive Your Keys: Once your application is approved and payment is made, you'll receive keys to your PO Box.

Alternatives to PO Boxes

While PO Boxes are a popular option, there are alternatives to consider:

Private Mailbox Services

Private mailbox services, offered by companies like UPS and FedEx, provide similar benefits to PO Boxes. These services often include additional features like package acceptance from all carriers and mail forwarding.

Virtual Mailboxes

Virtual mailboxes provide a digital solution, where your mail is scanned and uploaded for online viewing. This is convenient for those who travel frequently or prefer to manage their mail digitally.

Address Sharing

Address sharing involves using a friend’s or family member’s address for mail receipt. This can be a cost-effective solution but may lack the security and privacy of a PO Box.

Is a PO Box Right for You?

Deciding whether a PO Box is right for you depends on your specific needs and circumstances:

Benefits

Security: Enhanced protection against mail theft.
Privacy: Separate address from your home.
Stability: Consistent mailing address regardless of relocation.
Professionalism: Business-friendly address for correspondence.

Drawbacks

Cost: Rental fees can add up over time.
Inconvenience: Requires trips to the post office to collect mail.
Size Limitations: Smaller boxes may not accommodate large packages.
Limited Services: Some services, like mail forwarding, may not be available at all post offices.

PO Box vs. Private Mailbox Services

When comparing PO Boxes and private mailbox services, consider the following:

Feature	PO Box (USPS)	Private Mailbox (e.g., UPS, FedEx)
Cost	Generally lower	Typically higher
Security	Secure, but limited to post office hours	Secure, often with 24-hour access
Package Acceptance	May have limitations on package sizes and carriers	Accepts packages from all carriers
Address Format	PO Box number	Street address or suite number
Additional Services	Limited	Mail forwarding, package notification, etc.

FAQ About PO Boxes

How do I renew my PO Box?

You can renew your PO Box online, by mail, or in person at the post office. Renewal notices are typically sent out before your rental period expires.

What happens if I don't renew my PO Box?

If you don't renew your PO Box, your mail will be returned to sender after a grace period. It's essential to renew on time to avoid disruptions. — MLB Playoff Schedule Today: Dates, Times, And Matchups

Can I use a PO Box for business?

Yes, a PO Box can be used for business purposes. It provides a professional mailing address separate from your home address.

Can I receive packages at my PO Box?

Yes, you can receive packages at your PO Box, but the size of the package may be limited by the size of your box. Larger packages may need to be picked up at the counter.

Can I forward mail from my PO Box to another address?

Mail forwarding services may be available at some post offices. Check with your local post office for details and availability.

Conclusion

The cost of a PO Box can vary based on size, location, and rental period. Understanding the factors influencing these costs and the benefits of renting a PO Box can help you make an informed decision. Whether for personal or business use, a PO Box offers security, privacy, and stability for your mail needs. Consider your specific requirements and compare PO Box options with alternatives like private mailbox services to find the best solution for you.