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The Spruce / Michela Buttignol
While many people never consider updating their mailbox, it's worth getting one that suits your needs and aesthetic preferences. "The mailbox is extremely important to curb appeal, as it is one of the first things people see," says Danny Lipford of Today's Homeowner, a home improvement expert we interviewed for more insights.
To find the best mailboxes, we researched standout models with various capacities, security features, and styles.
Best Overall
Architectural Mailboxes Oasis 360 Locking Parcel Mailbox with 2-Access Doors
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Amazon
Durable and rust-resistant
Four colors available
Lifetime warranty
Additional door on back
Post not included
May require mounting brackets
If we could only recommend one mailbox, we'd have to go with the Oasis 360 from Architectural Mailboxes. Backed by a lifetime structural warranty, the timeless design is made of powder-coated galvanized steel, an exceptionally durable metal alloy with excellent resistance to rust and corrosion in just about any outdoor environment. You can pick from four neutral hues to complement your home: black, white, pewter, or rubbed bronze. The classic red flag for outgoing mail is a nice touch, too.
This sizable mailbox is big enough to fit packages up to 9.5 inches wide and 12.6 inches long. In terms of security, it's conveniently lockable, and it comes with four keys. The front opening has a smooth magnetic closure, and an additional door on the back allows you to get your mail safely without stepping into the street.
Like many mailboxes, the Oasis 360 doesn't come with a post. It's pre-drilled for easy installation and works with most in-ground posts. But if you buy one from a brand other than Architectural Mailboxes, you might need to get a mounting bracket separately.
Price at time of publish: $160
Dimensions: 20 x 11.5 x 11.3 inches | Material: Powder-coated galvanized steel | Color: Black, pewter, bronze, white | Security Features: Lock, front/rear doors
Best Budget
Gibraltar Mailboxes Grayson Post Mount Mailbox
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Lowe's
Affordable
Durable and rust-resistant
Decent capacity
Doesn't lock
Post not included
The Gibraltar Grayson Mailbox is a solid choice if you are on a budget. Available in one neutral color, gray, it's made of highly durable, rust-resistant galvanized steel and features a powder-coated finish for extra protection from the elements.
The mid-size capacity can easily fit small boxes, letters, padded envelopes, and magazines, and you can flip up the flag for outgoing mail. This mailbox doesn't lock, and you'll need to buy a post and mounting hardware separately, but it's still a stellar deal for the price.
Price at time of publish: $20
Dimensions: 20.3 x 9.5 x 7 inches | Material: Powder-coated galvanized steel | Color: Gray | Security Features: None
Best Splurge
Whitewall Products Premium Mailbox Plaque & Post
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Potterybarn
Customizable
Large capacity
Post included
Doesn't lock
If you're open to splurging on a high-end design, the Whitewall Premium Mailbox is a solid choice. Available in sleek black, French bronze, stark white, or forest green, it's made of powder-coated aluminum for rust resistance in any weather. You can even customize it with your address number and street name, for a personal touch, although it does cost extra.
According to the brand, this mailbox is 20 percent bigger than average, easily containing thick stacks of letters and mid-size parcels. While it's not lockable, we like that it comes with its own post featuring the same powder-coated finish.
Price at time of publish: $472
Dimensions: 20.38 x 13 x 9.63 inches, 54-inch post | Material: Powder-coated aluminum | Color: Black, bronze, green, white | Security Features: None
Best for Packages
Mail Boss Package Master Curbside Locking Security Mailbox
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Amazon
Large capacity
Durable and rust-resistant
Multiple security features
Expensive
Post not included
If you get a lot of boxes in the mail, go with the Mail Boss Package Master. The large-capacity design can fit multiple small and mid-size parcels, plus a stack of letters and magazines. You will have to purchase a post separately if you don't have one already.
It's made of powder-coated galvanized steel, so you won't have to worry about rust, corrosion, or daily wear and tear. We also like that this mailbox is lockable with an anti-pry latch for extra security. The price is steep, but you can count on long-lasting quality.
Price at time of publish: $290
Dimensions: 21.5 x 16.5 x 12 inches | Material: Powder-coated galvanized steel | Color: Black, granite, bronze, off-white | Security Features: Lock, anti-pry latch
Best for Outgoing Mail
TedStuff RetroBox Post Mounted Mailbox
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Wayfair
Letter slot and flag
Unique, modern design
Customizable
Pole, lock, and light sold separately
Not returnable
For those who frequently send outgoing mail, we recommend the TedStuff RetroBox. It has a handy letter slot and a little red flag you can pull out to signal that you need a pickup. This mailbox is customizable with laser-cut address numbers on the sides—included with purchase—and you can even upgrade it with a light kit, a lock, and a complementing post. But depending on where you buy it from, you might not be able to return a custom order.
The mid-century modern design is available in 16 unique colorways. As Lipford notes about your mailbox style, this "sets the tone for what visitors can expect to see when they enter your home."
Price at time of publish: $395
Dimensions: 16 x 10 x 10 inches | Material: Anodized aluminum, powder-coated stainless steel | Color: 16 colorways | Security Features: Lock (sold separately)
Best with Post
Gibraltar Mailboxes Stratford All-in-One Mailbox and Post Combo
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Walmart
Matching set
Elegant aesthetic
Durable
Requires wood post
Doesn't lock
If you are looking for a mailbox and post combo, we recommend the Gibraltar Stratford. This all-in-one product comes with a powder-coated thermoplastic mailbox and a matching composite post, plus all the necessary mounting hardware that you need to set them up.
One thing to note is that the post is supposed to slide over a 4 x 4 wood post, which you'll have to buy separately. This mailbox and post combo doesn't lock, but it's certainly durable with an elegant aesthetic that adds curb appeal.
Price at time of publish: $119
Dimensions: 20.75 x 11.75 x 10.17 inches, 62.75-inch post | Material: Powder-coated thermoplastic, composite | Color: Black | Security Features: None
Best Lockable
Salsbury Industries Post-Mount Roadside Mailbox
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The Home Depot
Dual-access doors
Two keys included for each door
Four colors available
Expensive
Post not included
"A lockable mailbox eliminates the need to keep an eye on the mailman and empty your mailbox as soon as mail is delivered," says Henry Bagdasarian, founder of Identity Management Institute. Our favorite lockable option is the Roadside Mailbox from Salsbury, because it has front and rear doors, both of which lock, and comes with two keys.
Available in four sleek colors, it's made of powder-coated aluminum for durability and rust resistance. This mailbox is pre-assembled for easy installation, but you'll need to buy a post separately. Alternatively, you can mount it on the outside of your home.
Price at time of publish: $192
Dimensions: 18.25 x 13.625 x 12.5 inches | Material: Powder-coated aluminum | Color: Black, green, silver, white | Security Features: Lock, front/rear doors
Best Design
Vsons Design Anthony Aluminum Post Mounted Modern and Contemporary Mailbox
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Amazon
Customizable
Contrasting colorways
Magnetic closure
Expensive
Post not included
If aesthetics are a top priority, you'll appreciate the Vsons Anthony Mailbox. With clean lines, a contrasting door, and custom address numbers for a bright pop of color, this is definitely one of the coolest mailboxes we found.
Thanks to a powder-coated aluminum frame, it's incredibly sturdy and waterproof in all climates. The Anthony closes with a magnetic latch, and you can opt for a lockable design for theft prevention. It's priced pretty steep, but considering the quality and unique style, it might be worth the investment.
Price at time of publish: $260
Dimensions: 20.5 x 8.5 x 8.25 inches | Material: Powder-coated aluminum | Color: Black, white | Security Features: Optional lock
Best Mounted
Whitehall Products The Large Capacity Locking Wall Mounted Mailbox
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Amazon
Decent capacity
Custom plaque available
Lifetime warranty
No flag for outgoing mail
Looking for something you can attach to the side of your house? This mailbox from Whitewall Products comes with all the necessary mounting hardware and stays securely in place even when stuffed full. The large-capacity design is 20 percent bigger than average, effortlessly fitting parcels, magazines, and letters.
Backed by a lifetime warranty, it's made of powder-coated aluminum for year-round rust resistance. You can choose from bronze, white, or black and upgrade with a custom plaque with your address numbers.
Price at time of publish: $153
Dimensions: 15 x 14.5 x 8 inches | Material: Powder-coated aluminum | Color: Black, white, bronze | Security Features: Lock
Best Extra-Large
Gibraltar Mailboxes Stanley Extra Large Post Mount Mailbox
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Walmart
Extra-wide and deep
Durable and rust-resistant
Reasonably priced for size
Post not included
Doesn't lock
Need something even bigger? Check out the Gibraltar Stanley Mailbox. Measuring 24.8 x 15 x 11.7 inches, the large-capacity design can fit small to medium-large boxes, multiple padded envelopes, magazines, and thick stacks of letters.
This mailbox is made of powder-coated galvanized steel for optimal strength and resistance to rust. It comes pre-assembled, though you'll need to get your own post. And while it doesn't lock, we think the price is more than reasonable.
Price at time of publish: $57
Dimensions: 24.8 x 15 x 11.7 inches | Material: Powder-coated galvanized steel | Color: Black, gray | Security Features: None
Best Customizable
4Ever Products Amelia Post Mounted Mailbox
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Wayfair
Post included
Tasteful design
Durable and weather-resistant
Pricey
Doesn't lock
The 4Ever Amelia Mailbox is made of galvanized steel and commercial-grade vinyl. It comes in a chic black-and-white contrasting colorway or a striking all-white design. What sets this mailbox apart, is that you can customize it with your street name and address numbers on a white metal label that hangs from the mailbox post so it's easy to spot.
Plus, this mailbox comes with its own post for a cohesive, tasteful look. It's easy to install, either staked into the ground or set into concrete. But if you're not up for it, consider buying the Amelia from Wayfair and adding expert installation to your order.
Price at time of publish: $230
Dimensions: 78x4x28 (including post) | Material: Galvanized steel, vinyl | Color: Black/white, white | Security Features: None
Our top choice is the Architectural Mailboxes Oasis 360 Locking Parcel Mailbox. Backed by a lifetime warranty, the comprehensive design has dual-access lockable doors and promises year-round rust resistance in any weather. But if you're interested in something more affordable, the Gibraltar Mailboxes Grayson Post Mount Mailbox is a solid choice and is also weather-resistant. For those looking for a mailbox and post combo, we recommend the stylish and durable Gibraltar Mailboxes Stratford All-in-One Mailbox.
What to Consider When Buying a Mailbox
Type
There are a few types of mailboxes to consider. The most popular is a traditional post-style mailbox like the Architectural Mailboxes Oasis 360 that either stakes into the ground or is embedded into concrete. "There are also contemporary models that look great and allow different functionalities," says home improvement expert Danny Lipford of Today's Homeowner.
Then there are mounted options you can attach to the side of your home—no post needed. You'll also find large-capacity mailboxes that can accommodate mid-sized parcels and padded envelopes.
Material
"Traditional rural mailboxes are available in two materials: metal and plastic," noted Lipford. Both tend to do well in outdoor environments, but the most durable, rust-resistant options are usually made of powder-coated aluminum or galvanized steel, like the Mail Boss Package Master. Thermoplastic and vinyl are pretty solid, too, but in any case, Lipford says the material "must withstand the outdoor elements."
Color
You'll also want to consider the color. Look for something that goes with the siding on your house, your front door, or your fence. It doesn't have to be an exact match, but it should complement the other hues and ultimately enhance curb appeal.
"You can make your mailbox look brand-new simply by sanding it down, applying a fresh coat of paint, and adding visible street numbers," Lipford adds.
Height
According to the United States Postal Service (USPS), the opening of your mailbox should be 41 to 45 inches from the ground. That allows the postal worker easy access when dispersing mail from their mail truck.
The actual posts are often taller, as mailboxes usually attach a few inches down from the top. For instance, the 4Ever Amelia Mailbox comes with a 78-inch post.
Installation Requirements
Residential mailboxes can be attached to a post or a wall—or rather, the exterior of your home. They often come with the necessary mounting hardware, but double-check the product description to confirm.
The posts can be planted into the ground or set into concrete. But bear in mind some are designed to slide over wooden stakes, like the Gibraltar Stratford, which you'll need to buy separately. "It's always a good idea to contact the post office to make sure the mailbox and location meet their requirements before you install," says Lipford.
Security Features
While many things are sent digitally these days, Henry Bagdasarian, founder of Identity Management Institute explains that plenty of personal documents still come through the mail—not to mention credit cards. "A lockable mailbox ensures no one can access our mail," he says.
Some also have anti-pry latches for additional theft protection. "The main security feature of a lockable mailbox is that it should not be easily broken or removed, which will defeat its purpose," notes Bagdasarian.
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Which is better, a plastic or metal mailbox?
Though plastic is generally waterproof, metal tends to be a slightly better choice for mailboxes. The most durable designs are typically made of galvanized steel or powder-coated aluminum, both of which are resistant to rust and corrosion, holding up exceptionally well in various climates.
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Do aluminum mailboxes rust?
Aluminum is a rust-resistant material, making it a top choice for residential mailboxes. But if you're concerned about weather damage, a powder-coated model can offer extra protection from the elements.
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Should a mailbox post be set in concrete?
Mailboxes don't have to be set in concrete. However, doing so will give yours a highly stable foundation—arguably more stable than simply burying or hammering the post into the ground. Most importantly, Bagdasarian says, "A lockable mailbox must be unbreakable and unremovable."
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What size mailbox should I get?
The standard size for curbside mailboxes is roughly 13 inches wide, 7 inches tall, and 16 inches deep. Community lockboxes and mounted models are often smaller. A more compact design might not fit parcels, in which case your mail carrier will typically place them on your doorstep. To ensure that your packages are secure within your mailbox, go with a large-capacity lockable design.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer who specializes in home design and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed home improvement expert Danny Lipford of Today's Homeowner, and Henry Bagdasarian, founder of Identity Management Institute and the author of Identity Diet: Eight Guiding Principles for Identity Protection. With pointers from these experts in mind, she researched the best mailboxes, narrowing them down to high-quality, weather-ready designs with standout features and curb appeal.
Holland covers home improvement, decor, and outdoor living at The Spruce. You can read more of her articles on Travel + Leisure and Byrdie.
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