Notes & Writing
Can I delete Apple Notes from my Mac?
You cannot delete Apple Notes from macOS because it resides on the protected system volume. Only its data folders can be reset, which affects what you lose depending on your sync settings.
See how much space Apple Notes really takes before you decide
Apple Notes data usually takes 200 MB – 5 GB on a Mac. The free scan shows the exact size on your Mac before you change anything.
Free scan · No account · Nothing is deleted without your OK · Moves to the Trash first · macOS 14+
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Email me the link- Application
- Apple Notes
- Typical data size
- 200 MB – 5 GB
- Category
- Notes & Writing
- File Location
~/Library/Group Containers/group.com.apple.notes
What you lose and keep with Apple Notes
Specific to Apple Notes
Deleting the app itself leaves all folders intact, so your data remains until you manually remove them. Notes stored in iCloud sync to your account and redownload automatically, but On My Mac notes exist only locally. The Group Container holds your NoteStore database, attachments, and thumbnails. Removing this folder erases local notes permanently, while other folders contain settings or temporary data that rebuilds.
Where your Apple Notes data lives
These folders hold your own Apple Notes data. Deleting the app leaves them in place; removing them is what actually deletes it.
- Account and sync
- Notes in iCloud sync to your Apple Account; notes in the On My Mac account exist only on this computer.
- Your files
- All notes and attachments are stored in the NoteStore database in the Notes Group Container.
Prepare before clearing Apple Notes data
Identify which notes reside in the On My Mac account, as these are not backed up to the cloud. Export important local notes as PDFs to preserve them outside the NoteStore database. Verify that iCloud notes appear on another device or in iCloud on the web. Quit the app before removing files to prevent data corruption or sync errors.
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Try it without risk
- Download and scan for freeSee every Apple Notes file and its size. No account needed.
- Clean free for 7 daysStart the 7-day free trial of the yearly plan inside the app.
- Keep it or cancelCancel in your App Store settings at least 24 hours before the trial ends and you won't be charged.
After the free trial, Pro costs $39.99 per year in your country's App Store; cancel any time.