Does using aws cli s3 sync --delete files in s3 folder cost any money?

Hello.

Executing the "aws s3 sync" command requires "s3:ListBucket" authority, so when you execute the command, it probably retrieves a list of objects and checks the differences.
Therefore, when you execute a command, I think that at least the fee for List API will be incurred.
https://aws.amazon.com/s3/pricing/?nc1=h_ls

Great question! 👇

Yes, using aws s3 sync --delete can incur a small cost, but not for the deletion itself. Here's how it breaks down:

1. No Cost for Deletion S3 does not charge you for deleting objects—whether it's through lifecycle rules, console, or CLI (like --delete).

So the act of deleting an object via aws s3 sync --delete is free.

2. Cost Comes from API Requests The sync command makes multiple ListObjects and DeleteObject API calls.

While deletions are free, API requests are billable, depending on the volume:

ListObjects (used to compare local/S3): $0.005 per 1,000 requests

DELETE requests: $0 (free!)

So if you sync large buckets or run syncs frequently, you may see minor request costs.

Summary Deleting files? Free.

API request volume? May cost pennies.

If you're running syncs occasionally or in small batches, the cost should be negligible.

Hope this helps! Let me know if you want a breakdown based on your usage.