U.S. Postal Service Raises Prices, More Americans are Surviving Cancer

Key takeaways

• Anticipate higher USPS shipping costs in 2026, with notable increases for Priority Mail and Ground Advantage.
• Review your current shipping practices now to identify potential savings before rates go up.
• Cancer survival rates are up, thanks to medical advances and healthier lifestyle choices.

Summary

US Postal Service price increases mean you can expect to pay more for shipping in 2026, with Priority Mail rates rising 6.6% and Ground Advantage delivery climbing 7.8%. Even stamp prices are set for another hike midyear. These changes can impact household budgets and small businesses alike, so now is a good time to review your shipping habits and look for ways to save.

On a more positive note, a new American Cancer Society report finds that cancer survival rates in the US have improved dramatically, with 7 in 10 people now surviving at least five years postdiagnosis, compared with just half in the 1970s. This progress is credited to advances in research, better screenings and declining smoking rates — a reminder of why regular checkups and healthy habits matter.

The key takeaways and summary were created with the assistance of generative AI. An AARP editor reviewed and refined the content for accuracy and clarity.

Full Transcript:

[00:00:03] Expect to pay more for shipping this year. The US Postal Service is raising prices on packages starting January 18th.

[00:00:12] Priority mail costs will go up 6.6%, with packages weighing 1 pound or

[00:00:17] less, starting at $10 and 20 cents. Express options jump 5.1% to start at $33.

[00:00:24] And Ground Advantage delivery climbs 7.8% starting at $7 and 30 cents.

[00:00:31] Stamp prices are also expected to increase midyear. More Americans are surviving cancer.

[00:00:39] A new report from the American Cancer Society says 7 in 10 people now survive their cancer five years or more, up from only half in the mid-’70s.

[00:00:49] That’s especially good news for adults 50 and older, who make up about 88% of all US cancer diagnoses. Experts credit decades of research,

[00:00:59] better screenings and declining smoking rates for this breakthrough. Heating bills are expected to surge nearly 10% this winter.

[00:01:10] People will spend about $1,000 to heat the average US home, according to a report from the National Energy Assistance Directors Association.

[00:01:19] But small changes can make a big difference. Keeping the thermostat 7 to 10 degrees cooler can save

[00:01:26] up to 10% on heating costs. Lowering the water heater temperature can also help reduce the bill. And sealing

[00:01:33] air leaks could cut the energy bill between 10 and 20% without breaking the bank on materials.