Best Prices on Magazine Subscriptions

I used to pay full price for magazines. Since I received a full year of magazines, it didn't sound like a bad deal. Then I learned that magazines make their money by selling advertisements. Consequently, magazines can usually give away subscriptions for free and still pull a profit.

After a little research, I learned that I could find some amazingly cheap magazine subscriptions. The Internet is by far the best place to purchase magazine subscriptions.

Ebay is one interesting site for magazine subscriptions. I've had mixed success on eBay. The prices are usually the lowest on eBay, but it's hit or miss whether or not you'll receive the subscription. I've successfully purchased 3 year subscriptions on Ebay for less than $5, but I've also made purchases and never received an issue. I recommend eBay only in certain situations.

The other magazine sites have been exceptionally reliable. For each deal I list in this article, I have purchased from that supplier and received my subscription.

Here are some of the best magazine deals that I've found:

Cosmopolitan

Surprisingly, I haven't been able to find a good price for this magazine anywhere. I've purchased this a few times as a gift through eBay. I haven't had a problem yet. Search for "Cosmopolitan Magazine Subscription". Expect to pay between $4 and $8 for a one year subscription.

Economist

The Economist Magazine is notoriously expensive. 51 issues for $98 is the best I can find. That's still $30 off the standard price.

ESPN The Magazine

26 issues for $6 makes this a surprisingly cheap magazine subscription. Search for "ESPN".

Family Circle

15 issues for $10

Forbes

Forbes is a tough one. They charge $60 if you purchase the subscription straight from Forbes. The best I've found is $30, but it's not bad for a bi-weekly year long subscription.

Fortune

The business magazines seem to defy the almost-free concept. Like Forbes, Fortune costs 26 issues for $30.

Marie Claire

12 issues for $12. Also, sometimes Marie Claire is 12 issues for $7. Do a Google search for a $5 off coupon to Magazines.com. If you find one, use the $7 link and purchase with the coupon.

Maxim, Stuff, Blender

I just go with eBay on this one. Search for "Maxim Magazine Subscription". Expect to pay between 99 cents and $3 for a one year subscription. The same goes for Stuff and Blender.

Men's Journal

12 issues for $10. Also, sometimes Men's Journal is 12 issues for $7 with the Magazines.com coupon trick.

Money

12 issues for $20

Motor Trend

12 issues for $10

Penthouse

For adults only. 12 issues for $5. Search for "Penthouse".

Popular Mechanics

12 issues for $12

Redbook

12 issues for $8

Rolling Stone

26 issues for $5. Search for "Rolling Stone".

Shape

Try eBay for Shape Magazine. Search for "Shape Magazine Subscription". Expect to pay $2 to $4 for a 3-year subscription.

Smithsonian

12 issues for $12

Sporting News

This is probably the best deal of the bunch. 60 issues for $5. Search for "Sporting News".

Sports Illustrated for Kids

12 issues for $15

Time

56 issues for $30

I hope my research helps you save money on your magazine subscriptions. At these prices, I've found that they even make great gifts.

If you can find an even better deal, please post your deal in the comments section.