What is a frugal life?
Living frugally is a powerful way to boost your savings and achieve your financial goals. In this guide, we will cover 50 simple ways to live frugally and save money, from everyday habits to bigger lifestyle changes. Whether you’re trying to save for retirement, pay down debt, or build an emergency fund, these practical tips can help you keep more money in your pocket.
Summary Table: 50 Simple Ways to Live Frugally and Save Money
This table summarizes each of the 50 strategies for frugal living, offering practical tips and real-life examples to help you save money.
Section | Summary | Key Tips | Examples |
---|---|---|---|
1. Cook at Home Instead of Dining Out | Cooking meals at home saves you money compared to dining out. | Plan meals ahead, prepare in bulk, and avoid expensive takeout. | Rachel saved $3,600 annually by cooking at home instead of dining out. |
2. Create a Budget and Stick to It | Establishing and sticking to a budget helps track your finances and prioritize savings. | Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets, allocate money for savings first. | Tom saved an extra $500 per month by sticking to his budget. |
3. Use Cash Instead of Credit Cards | Paying with cash limits overspending, ensuring you stay within budget. | Withdraw a set amount each week for discretionary spending. | Sam saved 20% on his food budget by switching to cash for groceries. |
4. Cancel Unused Subscriptions | Canceling unused subscriptions frees up money for savings or other needs. | Review subscriptions quarterly, cancel ones you don’t use. | Emma saved $360 annually by canceling three unused subscriptions. |
5. Shop with Coupons and Discount Codes | Shopping with coupons or discount codes can significantly reduce spending. | Use apps like Honey or Rakuten for cashback and discounts. | Ben saved $25 on a pair of shoes by using a 20% off coupon. |
6. Buy Generic or Store Brands | Generic products are often much cheaper than their branded counterparts. | Compare prices of generic and name brands before purchasing. | Lily saved $500 a year by switching to generic brands for her groceries. |
7. Reduce Energy Consumption | Reducing energy consumption lowers utility bills. | Turn off lights when not in use, use energy-efficient appliances. | Mike reduced his electricity bill by $200 annually by switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs. |
8. Limit Impulse Purchases | Limiting impulse buying ensures you only purchase what you really need. | Set a 24-hour rule before making unplanned purchases. | Anna saved $1,000 annually by waiting 24 hours before buying items she didn’t need. |
9. Use Public Transportation or Carpool | Public transportation and carpooling save money on gas and parking. | Research the best routes and carpool options available in your area. | James saved $120 a month by using public transport instead of driving. |
10. Shop Secondhand | Shopping secondhand offers significant savings on furniture, clothing, and more. | Check online marketplaces or local thrift stores for gently used items. | Sarah saved $300 by buying a secondhand bicycle instead of a new one. |
11. Automate Your Savings | Automating savings ensures you regularly contribute to your savings account. | Set up automatic transfers to savings accounts on payday. | David automatically saved $3,600 annually by transferring $300 each month into savings. |
12. Take Advantage of Employee Benefits | Maximize the benefits offered by your employer, like retirement accounts or health plans. | Review your employer’s benefits package and utilize offerings like retirement matches. | Maria saved $2,500 a year by contributing to her employer’s retirement plan. |
13. Sell Unused Items | Selling items you no longer use generates extra income and declutters your home. | Use platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist. | Paul earned $400 by selling unused electronics and furniture. |
14. Cut Back on Alcohol and Dining Out | Limiting dining out and alcohol consumption can result in substantial savings. | Cook meals at home and limit visits to bars or restaurants. | Lisa saved $2,000 annually by cutting back on dining out and drinking alcohol. |
15. Reduce Your Phone Bill | Switching to a cheaper phone plan can cut monthly expenses. | Research affordable mobile plans or consider pay-as-you-go options. | Daniel saved $600 annually by switching to a more affordable mobile plan. |
16. DIY Home Repairs | Learning how to do simple repairs around the house can save you money on hiring professionals. | Watch online tutorials or invest in basic tools to tackle repairs. | Jessica saved $200 by fixing a leaky pipe instead of hiring a plumber. |
17. Find Free or Low-Cost Entertainment | Free or low-cost activities like hiking, community events, or local museums can replace expensive outings. | Attend free local events, explore nature, or participate in community activities. | Kevin saved $500 annually by attending free yoga classes and visiting museums. |
18. Buy in Bulk | Bulk buying provides a better per-unit price for long-lasting items. | Stock up on essentials like paper products, canned food, or cleaning supplies. | Hannah saved $200 by buying bulk items like paper towels and canned vegetables. |
19. Plan Your Grocery List and Stick to It | Planning meals and sticking to a shopping list prevents unnecessary purchases. | Organize your shopping list by categories and avoid distractions at the store. | Javier saved $50 each month by sticking to a planned grocery list. |
20. Limit Expensive Hobbies | Some hobbies can be costly over time. Opt for alternatives that are less expensive or scale back on high-cost activities. | Find affordable ways to enjoy your hobby, such as DIY crafts or outdoor sports. | Stephanie saved $400 annually by switching from golfing to hiking. |
21. Use a Library for Books and Movies | Libraries offer free resources like books, movies, and audiobooks, saving money and providing access to educational content. | Borrow books, e-books, audiobooks, and movies from your local library. | Chris saved $300 a year by borrowing books and movies from the library instead of purchasing them. |
22. Downgrade Your Internet Plan | A less expensive internet plan can save a significant amount if you don’t need high speeds. | Shop around for affordable providers and avoid unnecessary upgrades. | Ella saved $180 annually by choosing a cheaper internet plan. |
23. Implement a No-Spend Day or Week | Committing to a no-spend day or week can help reset spending habits and boost savings. | Dedicate one day or week each month to no spending (except for essential items). | George saved $150 per month by committing to a “No-Spend Week.” |
24. Get Discounts on Travel | Use travel deal sites or rewards programs to save on vacations, including flights, hotels, and car rentals. | Sign up for alerts and loyalty programs to access discounts. | Olivia saved $500 on her trip by using discount travel websites. |
25. Limit Clothing Purchases | Focusing on need-based clothing purchases prevents overspending on unnecessary items. | Shop only when necessary and look for sales or secondhand clothing. | Angela saved $600 by only purchasing essential clothing. |
26. Cut Your Own Hair | Cutting your own hair instead of paying for salon visits can save hundreds. | Invest in clippers or basic tools for home haircuts. | Ben saved $200 per year by cutting his own hair instead of going to a salon. |
27. Use a Smart Thermostat | A smart thermostat helps you control your home’s temperature efficiently, saving money on heating and cooling. | Program your thermostat to adjust according to your schedule. | Linda saved $250 on heating costs by using a smart thermostat. |
28. Opt for a Smaller Home | Moving to a smaller home can reduce your rent or mortgage payments, saving you money. | Consider downsizing or renting a more affordable place. | Kevin saved $400 per month by moving to a smaller apartment. |
29. Buy Used Cars Instead of New | Used cars cost less upfront and avoid the depreciation of new cars. | Research reliable used cars and consider factors like mileage and condition. | Sarah saved $10,000 by buying a used car instead of a new one. |
30. Use Cash Back Apps | Cash back apps offer rebates on purchases, putting money back into your pocket. | Use apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Swagbucks for discounts on purchases. | David earned $150 in cash back rewards by using an app for his online shopping. |
31. Shop in Bulk for Non-Perishables | Buying bulk items like canned goods and cleaning supplies offers lower unit prices and long shelf life. | Purchase items like toilet paper, pasta, or rice in larger quantities. | Rita saved $300 by buying bulk supplies like paper products. |
32. Avoid Brand Loyalty | Trying different brands can save you money, as generic options are often cheaper. | Compare prices between name brands and generic alternatives before purchasing. | George saved $1,000 by switching to store-brand products. |
33. Focus on Low-Cost Fitness Options | Outdoor activities and free fitness programs are cheaper than gym memberships. | Use free workout apps or attend outdoor group activities like running clubs. | Tina saved $500 annually by canceling her gym membership and working out at home. |
34. Eliminate Unnecessary Insurance | Reviewing and adjusting insurance policies can prevent overpaying for coverage. | Evaluate your current coverage and shop around for better deals. | John saved $400 annually by switching his auto insurance to a more affordable provider. |
35. Use a Water Filter | A water filter eliminates the need for buying bottled water, reducing costs. | Install a water filter at home and refill reusable bottles. | Alice saved $200 by using a water filter instead of purchasing bottled water. |
36. Look for Free Online Courses | Free online courses can help you develop skills and further your career without spending money. | Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer free educational content. | Sam learned coding for free online and advanced in his career. |
37. Make Your Own Gifts | Handmade gifts can be meaningful and budget-friendly alternatives to store-bought items. | DIY gifts like homemade candles, knitted scarves, or personalized photo albums are cost-effective. | Rachel saved $50 on gifts by creating handmade items for family and friends. |
38. Buy Seasonal Produce | Purchasing fruits and vegetables in-season saves money and ensures freshness. | Buy in-season produce or grow your own fruits and vegetables. | Tom saved $100 by switching to seasonal fruits and vegetables. |
39. Use Loyalty Programs | Signing up for loyalty programs can earn you rewards and discounts on future purchases. | Redeem loyalty points for discounts on future purchases or free items. | Lisa saved $200 by using loyalty points at her favorite store. |
40. Skip the Name-Brand Medications | Generic medications provide the same benefits as brand-name options for a fraction of the cost. | Ask your doctor for generic versions of prescribed medications. | Jane saved $150 annually by switching to generic medications. |
41. Buy Discounted Gift Cards | Discounted gift cards can save you money when shopping for products or services. | Look for gift card deals online or in stores, especially during holidays. | Mark saved 15% on his online shopping by using discounted gift cards. |
42. Shop Local Farmers’ Markets | Local farmers’ markets often offer fresher produce and lower prices than supermarkets. | Visit farmers’ markets early in the day to get the best deals. | Lisa saved $200 by buying organic produce at a local farmer’s market instead of a supermarket. |
43. Plan Holiday Gifts in Advance | Planning your holiday shopping well ahead of time helps you find deals and avoid last-minute purchases. | Take advantage of holiday sales like Black Friday or Cyber Monday. | Alex saved $300 by shopping for gifts ahead of time and finding discounts. |
44. Reduce Clothing Purchases | Buying only essential clothing items prevents overspending on fashionable yet unnecessary pieces. | Shop during seasonal sales or choose versatile items that match multiple outfits. | Maya saved $500 by reducing unnecessary clothing purchases. |
45. Cut Back on Pet Expenses | While pets can be expensive, cutting back on unnecessary purchases can save you money. | Buy pet supplies in bulk, avoid designer pet products, and adopt from shelters. | Rachel saved $200 annually by switching to cheaper pet food and grooming options. |
46. Cancel Gym Memberships | Canceling a gym membership and working out at home or outdoors can save money. | Use free YouTube fitness channels, home workouts, or outdoor activities like running or biking. | David saved $600 annually by canceling his gym membership and exercising at home. |
47. Host Potluck Parties | Hosting potluck gatherings instead of dining out or throwing expensive parties reduces your event costs. | Invite friends to bring their favorite dish to share at the event. | Sarah saved $200 per month by hosting potlucks instead of going out for dinner parties. |
48. Use Free Trials Wisely | Take advantage of free trials for services or subscriptions to get temporary access without paying. | Set reminders to cancel trials before the paid period begins. | Emma saved $300 by canceling free trials before being charged. |
49. Avoid Convenience Foods | Pre-packaged convenience foods are more expensive than cooking from scratch. | Plan meals ahead and buy fresh ingredients to cook meals at home. | Dan saved $500 by avoiding ready-made frozen dinners and cooking fresh meals. |
50. Switch to LED Lightbulbs | LED lightbulbs use less energy and last longer, helping you save on electricity costs over time. | Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs. | Anna saved $150 annually by switching to LED lightbulbs. |
Introduction
Living frugally isn’t about living without or feeling deprived. It’s about making smarter, intentional choices that align with your financial goals. By cutting unnecessary costs, reducing waste, and being mindful of how you spend money, you can start saving more each month and build a more secure financial future.
In this post, we’ll explore 50 simple ways to live frugally and save money. These practical tips will help you cut costs across various areas of your life, from food and transportation to entertainment and home maintenance.
1. Cook at Home Instead of Dining Out
One of the easiest ways to save money is to cook your own meals. Not only is it healthier, but it’s also significantly cheaper than eating out.
Example:
Rachel used to spend $150 per week eating out. By cooking at home, she now spends just $60 per week, saving $3,600 annually.
2. Create a Budget and Stick to It
Establish a monthly budget to track where your money is going. It’s much easier to cut expenses when you know exactly what you’re spending on.
Example:
Tom created a simple budget and reduced his discretionary spending, saving an extra $500 per month.
3. Use Cash Instead of Credit Cards
Using cash can make you more mindful of your spending. When you only have a set amount, you’re less likely to overspend.
Example:
Sam switched to using cash for groceries and saved 20% on his monthly food bill.
4. Cancel Unused Subscriptions
Take a moment to review all your subscriptions. You may be paying for services you no longer use, such as streaming platforms or magazine subscriptions.
Example:
Emma canceled three subscriptions, saving $30 a month, or $360 per year.
5. Shop with Coupons and Discount Codes
Before making any purchase, look for coupons or discount codes. Small discounts can add up to big savings over time.
Example:
Ben found a 20% off coupon for a pair of shoes he was going to buy online, saving $25.
6. Buy Generic or Store Brands
Generic brands often provide the same quality as name brands for a fraction of the cost. Opt for store-brand items to save money on everyday purchases.
Example:
Lily switched to generic versions of her favorite snacks, saving $500 a year.
7. Reduce Energy Consumption
Conserve energy by turning off lights when not in use, unplugging electronics, and using energy-efficient appliances. This reduces your utility bills.
Example:
Mike replaced his light bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs and cut his electricity bill by $200 annually.
8. Limit Impulse Purchases
Avoid buying items on impulse. Give yourself a 24-hour cooling-off period before making any non-essential purchase.
Example:
Anna used to impulse-buy clothes, but now she waits a day to see if she still wants them. This simple habit saved her $1,000 in a year.
9. Use Public Transportation or Carpool
Opt for public transport or carpooling instead of driving everywhere. This will save you money on gas, parking, and car maintenance.
Example:
James uses public transportation for his daily commute, saving $120 a month on gas and parking.
10. Shop Secondhand
Shopping at thrift stores or online marketplaces is a great way to find gently used items at a fraction of the cost.
Example:
Sarah purchased a secondhand bicycle for $100, saving $300 compared to buying new.
11. Automate Your Savings
Set up automatic transfers to your savings account as soon as you receive your paycheck. This ensures you’re consistently saving, without thinking about it.
Example:
David set up an automatic transfer of $300 each month, helping him save $3,600 annually without any effort.
12. Take Advantage of Employee Benefits
Many employers offer benefits such as retirement accounts, health insurance, and wellness programs. Make sure you’re utilizing these benefits to save money.
Example:
Maria contributed to her employer’s retirement plan and received a 5% match, adding an extra $2,500 to her savings each year.
13. Sell Unused Items
Declutter your home by selling items you no longer need. You can sell old furniture, electronics, clothing, or even books.
Example:
Paul sold his unused bike and old gaming console, earning $400 over the course of a few months.
14. Cut Back on Alcohol and Dining Out
Cutting back on alcohol or dining out can save you hundreds of dollars each month.
Example:
Lisa cut back on her dining out and alcohol spending, saving $2,000 annually.
15. Reduce Your Phone Bill
Consider switching to a less expensive phone plan or finding a budget-friendly provider. You don’t have to overpay for a mobile service.
Example:
Daniel switched to a low-cost mobile provider and saved $50 a month on his phone bill.
16. DIY Home Repairs
Rather than hiring professionals, learn to do simple repairs yourself. You can find tutorials online for everything from fixing leaky faucets to painting walls.
Example:
Jessica learned how to fix a leaky pipe using a YouTube tutorial, saving $200 on plumbing fees.
17. Find Free or Low-Cost Entertainment
Instead of spending money on expensive outings, enjoy free or affordable activities like hiking, visiting museums, or attending free local events.
Example:
Kevin started taking free yoga classes at a local community center, saving $500 a year on gym memberships.
18. Buy in Bulk
Purchasing items in bulk is often cheaper in the long run. You can save money on essentials like toilet paper, grains, and canned goods.
Example:
Hannah bought bulk supplies of paper towels and toilet paper, saving $200 annually.
19. Plan Your Grocery List and Stick to It
Planning your grocery list in advance and avoiding impulse buys at the store can save you a significant amount each week.
Example:
Javier started planning his meals and sticking to his grocery list, saving $50 a month.
20. Limit Expensive Hobbies
Some hobbies can be quite expensive. Try finding cheaper alternatives or limit your spending in certain areas, like collecting or golfing.
Example:
Stephanie swapped expensive golf lessons for hiking and saved $400 each year.
21. Use a Library for Books and Movies
Instead of buying books or renting movies, take advantage of your local library. Libraries often offer free resources for entertainment and education.
Example:
Chris switched to borrowing books and movies from the library, saving $300 a year.
22. Downgrade Your Internet Plan
Review your internet plan to see if you’re paying for more speed than you need. Often, lower-tier plans are sufficient for browsing and streaming.
Example:
Ella downgraded to a more basic internet plan, saving $180 annually.
23. Implement a No-Spend Day or Week
Challenge yourself to go without spending money for an entire day or week. This can help you become more aware of your unnecessary purchases.
Example:
George committed to a “No-Spend Week” every month, saving around $150 each time.
24. Get Discounts on Travel
Look for discounts or use loyalty programs when booking flights, hotels, or rental cars. Signing up for travel deal newsletters or using apps like Skyscanner can help you find the best deals.
Example:
Olivia booked a vacation through a deal she found on a travel site, saving $500 on her trip.
25. Limit Clothing Purchases
Stop buying clothes you don’t need. Create a capsule wardrobe or shop secondhand to save money on apparel.
Example:
Angela stopped buying clothes every season, focusing on buying only the essentials, and saved $600 a year.
26. Cut Your Own Hair
Instead of paying for salon haircuts, consider cutting your hair at home or learning basic trimming skills.
Example:
Ben bought a set of clippers and cut his hair at home, saving $200 annually on salon visits.
27. Use a Smart Thermostat
Install a smart thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home more efficiently and save on energy costs.
Example:
Linda installed a smart thermostat and reduced her heating bill by $250 annually.
28. Opt for a Smaller Home
If you’re considering moving, think about downsizing to a smaller home to save on rent or mortgage payments.
Example:
Kevin moved from a 2-bedroom apartment to a 1-bedroom and saved $400 a month on rent.
29. Buy Used Cars Instead of New
When buying a car, consider purchasing a used vehicle instead of a new one. Depreciation hits new cars hard, making used cars a smarter financial choice.
Example:
Sarah bought a used car instead of a new one and saved $10,000 on the price.
30. Use Cash Back Apps
Take advantage of cashback and rewards apps when you shop. Apps like Rakuten, Honey, and Ibotta can help you earn money back on your purchases.
Example:
David uses cashback apps for all his online shopping and has earned over $150 in cashback rewards this year.
31. Maintain Your Car Regularly
A well-maintained car runs more efficiently, preventing costly repairs down the road. Regular maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake checks can extend your car’s lifespan.
Example:
John started maintaining his car regularly, saving $500 per year by avoiding major repairs.
32. Cut Your Cable Subscription
Instead of paying for a full cable subscription, consider switching to streaming services or using an antenna for free channels.
Example:
Emily cut her cable bill and switched to a $10/month streaming service, saving $1,200 a year.
33. Use Free Software
There are plenty of free alternatives to paid software. Consider using open-source or free versions of popular programs like Microsoft Office or Photoshop.
Example:
Steve switched to using free software like LibreOffice and GIMP, saving $300 on software subscriptions.
34. Learn Basic Home Maintenance
You don’t need to hire a handyman for every small repair. Learning basic home maintenance skills can save you a lot of money over time.
Example:
Patricia learned how to unclog drains and patch small holes in the wall, saving over $200 on home repairs.
35. Skip the Morning Coffee Shop Run
Instead of buying expensive coffee every morning, make your own at home and carry it with you in a thermos.
Example:
Tom stopped buying his daily $5 coffee, saving $1,825 annually by making his coffee at home.
36. Take Advantage of Free Trials
Many subscription services offer free trials. Use them to enjoy premium services without paying, but remember to cancel before the trial ends.
Example:
Claire used a free trial of a fitness app, saving $150 without paying for the membership.
37. Shop for Insurance Annually
Your insurance premiums can change each year. Shop around for the best rates for car, home, and health insurance policies.
Example:
Derrick shopped for a new car insurance policy and saved $500 annually.
38. Set Up a Family Meal Plan
Planning meals for the whole family can help reduce food waste and eliminate the temptation to eat out.
Example:
Rachel planned meals for her family for the entire week, reducing her grocery bills by $100.
39. Buy Seasonal Produce
Buying fruits and vegetables in season is cheaper and fresher. Stock up when they’re in season, and freeze extras for later.
Example:
Jessica bought a bulk amount of seasonal fruits and froze them, saving $200 a year.
40. Cancel Your Gym Membership
Instead of paying for a gym membership, consider home workouts, outdoor running, or using free online fitness resources.
Example:
Mike canceled his $50/month gym membership and switched to home workout videos, saving $600 annually.
41. Plan Your Shopping Around Sales
Take advantage of seasonal sales, Black Friday deals, and other discount events. By planning your purchases, you can save on big-ticket items.
Example:
Olivia waited for end-of-season sales to buy winter coats and saved $200 on her shopping spree.
42. Use a Programmable Coffee Maker
A programmable coffee maker allows you to make your morning coffee at home, eliminating the need for an expensive coffee shop habit.
Example:
Kevin bought a coffee maker with a timer, allowing him to save $1,000 a year on his daily Starbucks run.
43. DIY Gifts Instead of Buying
Make your own gifts for special occasions, like birthdays or holidays. Homemade gifts can be more thoughtful and much cheaper than store-bought ones.
Example:
Anna made homemade candles for friends’ birthdays, saving $150 in gift costs.
44. Consolidate Your Debt
If you have multiple credit cards or loans, consolidating them into one payment can reduce interest rates and simplify your payments.
Example:
Paul consolidated his credit card debt into a personal loan with a lower interest rate, saving $500 in interest payments.
45. Use a Slow Cooker
Slow cookers can save you time and energy when preparing meals. You can make large batches of food and use leftovers throughout the week.
Example:
Lena used her slow cooker to prepare large meals on weekends, saving $200 on takeout during the week.
46. Swap Babysitting with Friends
Instead of paying for childcare, exchange babysitting duties with friends or family to save on sitter fees.
Example:
Sophia swapped babysitting with a friend, saving $300 a month on childcare.
47. Practice Minimalism
Embrace a minimalist lifestyle by focusing on purchasing only the essentials and eliminating clutter from your life.
Example:
Mark embraced minimalism by getting rid of unused items, saving $400 by not buying things he didn’t truly need.
48. Make Your Own Household Cleaners
Instead of buying expensive cleaning supplies, make your own using inexpensive ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
Example:
Sarah made her own cleaning products, saving $100 a year on commercial cleaners.
49. Purchase Long-Lasting Products
Invest in higher-quality items that last longer. For instance, buy durable shoes, bags, and furniture instead of cheap alternatives.
Example:
Jake invested in a quality set of kitchen knives, which lasted over a decade, saving him money on replacements.
50. Avoid Convenience Store Purchases
Convenience stores charge higher prices for everyday items. Instead, visit larger stores or buy in bulk to save money.
Example:
Julia stopped buying snacks and drinks at convenience stores, saving $300 a year by purchasing in bulk.
Conclusion
Living frugally is not about denying yourself the joys of life, but rather about being intentional with your money. Small changes, when added up over time, can lead to big savings. Whether you’re focusing on reducing discretionary spending, cutting down on monthly bills, or making smarter purchases, adopting even a few of these 50 simple ways to live frugally and save money will help you reach your financial goals faster and with less stress.
Takeaways
- Cooking at home, canceling subscriptions, and using cash are effective ways to start saving money.
- Make use of secondhand items, limit impulse buys, and track your spending to avoid unnecessary expenses.
- Automating savings and using energy-efficient practices can help boost your savings without extra effort.
- Try out free trials and DIY home projects to save on subscriptions and repairs.
- Focus on smarter shopping habits, like buying seasonal produce, using cashback apps, and taking advantage of sales events.