How to Delete a User Account on Mac

We can make friends and family accounts on our Mac with ease. That’s not always a good thing as a new account can quickly fill up your HDD. You will want to know How to Delete a User Account on Mac if you are running out of HDD space or no longer use the extra account.

  1. In the top left-hand corner click the Apple Menu ()
  2. From the Apple menu select System Settings
  3. On the system preferences select Users & Groups
  4. Click the “i” icon next to the User you wish to delete
  5. Select the Delete Account
  6. Choose what data to delete
  7. Select Delete Account

It is not always easy following along with a how-to with a simple list. So I have the how-to with pictures and, if you look below, even video instructions.

How to Delete a User Account on Mac

With the introduction of macOS Ventura, the apple ecosystem become more in line with each other. Also, the ability to delete Mac accounts became easier and quicker with fewer steps to follow.

So let’s dive into deleting a Mac user:

Step 1. In the top left-hand corner click the Apple Menu ()

Step 2. From the Apple menu select System Settings

Apple Menu > System Settings
Apple Menu > System Settings

Step 3. On the system preferences select Users & Groups

Step 4. Click the “i” icon next to the User you wish to delete

Users & Groups > User
Users & Groups > User

Step 5. Select the Delete Account

Users & Groups > Delete Account
Users & Groups > Delete Account

Step 6. Choose what data to delete

You have three choices when it comes to deleting users.

  • Save the home folder in a disk image – saving the “home folder” allows you to later restore the account at a later date as you archive the user. You can find the saved folder in /Users/Deleted Users/.
  • Don’t change the home folder – Very similar to the above and you can later restore the user. However, the user is not archived and the data can be found in /Users/.
  • Delete the home folder – all data will be deleted from the Mac and you will not be able to restore the user at a later date. This option frees up HDD space that the account is currently taking up.

Step 7. Select Delete Account

Users & Groups > Delete Account Data
Users & Groups > Delete Account Data

Step 9. The account will be deleted

System Preferences > Users & Groups
System Preferences > Users & Groups

Now you know how to delete an account what if you want to add a user? Well, we have the perfect guide to help you through the process. How to Create New Users on Mac for family members and friends.

How to Delete a User Account on Mac Video

If you prefer video, I have you covered with this simple-to-follow video on How to Delete a User Account on Mac.