Unsubscribe rates aren’t evil, they’re indicative
Unsubscribe Rates are probably the most misunderstood metric in email marketing. Here's why.
Also known as: Unsub Rate, Opt-Out Rate
The unsubscribe rate is the percent of delivered emails that lead to an unsubscribe. It shows how many people no longer want to hear from you after a send.
Unsubscribe rate is the share of people who stop getting your emails after a send. Your email tool counts how many people got the email and how many clicked unsubscribe. It then turns that into a simple percent. This gives you a quick way to see how your audience is reacting.
This number matters because it shows how well your content and expectations match what people want. A low unsubscribe rate means your list is interested and feels respected. A high rate can signal problems with frequency, topic, or how people joined your list. Over time, high unsubscribes can hurt your sender reputation and inbox placement.
Treat unsubscribe spikes like feedback. When you see a jump, look at what changed in your recent emails such as subject, offer, or send timing. Adjust one thing at a time and watch how the rate moves. Aim for slow, steady improvement instead of chasing a perfect number.
The action someone takes to stop getting your emails, usually by clicking a link at the bottom of a message. It is required by law and it shows respect when you stop emailing them right away.
Learn more →Bounce rate is the percentage of emails that could not be delivered to recipients. It shows how many addresses are invalid or blocked compared to the total you tried to send.
Learn more →Forward rate is the percentage of delivered emails that people share or forward to others. It shows how many subscribers liked your email enough to pass it on.
Learn more →The percentage of delivered emails where someone clicks a link. It shows how many people take action from your email.
Learn more →Unsubscribe Rates are probably the most misunderstood metric in email marketing. Here's why.
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