Most Read Newspaper: Who’s Leading the Pack in 2025?

If you’ve ever wondered which paper people actually pick up today, you’re not alone. Print is still alive, but the numbers have shifted a lot thanks to digital subscriptions, mobile apps, and changing habits. Below we break down the biggest readers, why they matter, and what the next few years might bring.

UK Newspapers at the Top

In the UK, the Daily Express still pulls in a solid daily crowd, thanks to its mix of politics, lifestyle, and quick headlines. The Guardian keeps its loyal base by focusing on investigative pieces and strong opinions, while the Financial Times attracts professionals who need in‑depth business analysis.

What’s interesting is how the Metro, which is free and handed out on the tube, now outsizes many paid titles in total reach. Its short, punchy stories appeal to commuters who want news in a few minutes. The data shows Metro’s daily distribution tops 1.5 million copies, making it a heavyweight in sheer numbers.

Digital subscriptions are the secret sauce for The Times and The Telegraph. Both have robust apps that let readers customize alerts, and their online paywalls keep the audience engaged without turning them off. In 2025, about 40% of their total readership comes from mobile devices, meaning the paper’s future isn’t printed‑only.

Global Heavyweights and Digital Shifts

Outside the UK, the New York Times and The Washington Post dominate the English‑language market. Their strong digital platforms, podcasts, and newsletters bring in millions of global subscribers. The Times even reports that its non‑US readership now exceeds its American base.

In Asia, the Japan Times and South Korea’s Chosun Ilbo still command large print circulations, but they’ve both invested heavily in Korean‑ and Japanese‑language apps. Readers love being able to swipe through the paper on their phones while commuting.

When we look at the numbers, the world’s most read newspaper in 2025 is the Chinese state‑run People’s Daily, largely because of its online reach. Over 300 million unique visitors access its digital edition each month, dwarfing any print run.

Why do people keep reading? The answer is simple: they want trust, quick facts, and a sense of community. A paper that delivers reliable local news alongside global headlines builds habit. That’s why regional titles that focus on city news, like London’s Evening Standard, still sell well.

Looking ahead, the trend points to hybrid models. Publishers that combine a solid print edition with a free, ad‑supported app tend to keep the widest audience. The key is offering something you can’t get on social media – deeper analysis, fact‑checked stories, and a consistent voice.So whether you grab a copy on the tube, read a story on your phone, or subscribe to a newsletter, the most read newspapers are the ones that meet you where you are. Keep an eye on their readership reports, and you’ll always know where the news buzz is happening.