How to send a postcard from New York?
Want to send a postcard from New York to loved ones back home? Here's everything you need to know about postage costs and delivery times.
Last updated February 17, 2026
How much does a postcard stamp cost?
- A postcard stamp from New York to anywhere abroad costs $1.70.
- This price is the same regardless of destination. Whether you’re sending to France, Belgium, Switzerland, Canada, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Réunion or Australia, you pay one flat rate—called “Global” postage. These stamps are easy to spot: they’re round.
Where to buy stamps in New York
- Buy stamps at any US Postal Service office. For a list of post offices in New York, see my article on mail in New York.
- Don’t worry about language barriers. Just wait your turn in line and show your postcards at the counter. The clerk will immediately understand what you need from the cards and addresses.
Choose between traditional stamps or labels
- Like postal services elsewhere, the US Postal Service offers stamps as self-adhesive labels. They’re faster at the counter, but far less charming than a traditional stamp.
- If you want a proper stamp on your postcard, ask at the counter. Say “Do you have nice stamps?” The clerk will pull out a book of traditional designs. It’s a much nicer souvenir than a plain label.
How long does a postcard take to arrive?
- Once mailed, your postcard should arrive in Europe in about one week. Delivery can take up to 10 business days, depending on public holidays in New York.
- Tip: Write the recipient’s address clearly and print the destination country’s name in capital letters in English.