There are some frugal living tips that every middle-class family just needs to start doing. These frugal living tips are effective, helpful, and can help you save money!
1. Create a Budget
Before you can save money, you need to know where it’s going. The first money-saving tip is to create a monthly budget to gain control of your spending. You need to track your income and expenses in order to see and know where your money is going.
2. Cut Unnecessary Subscriptions
Do you really need those subscriptions that you barely use? Review your credit card bills and cancel any subscriptions you can do without. Anything you don’t use regularly should be cancelled. You can always sign back up if you really need to.
3. Cook at Home More Often
Eating out can be costly. Cooking at home not only saves money but also allows you to enjoy healthier meals. If you eat out frequently, start by cutting down one night a week, and then add more nights as you become more comfortable cooking.
4. Use Cashback and Rewards Cards
There is some spending that you need to do. Get rewarded for your spending by using cashback and rewards credit cards. Switch your necessary spending to a credit card that gives you cashback or rewards for every purchase.
5. Buy Generic Brands
When shopping, opt for generic brands over brand names. Generic products are often just as good as name brands but come with a lower price tag. Always choose these first when going shopping. Generic should be the default.
6. Shop for Groceries With a List
Create a grocery list before you head to the store. Plan your grocery shopping in advance and stick to your list to avoid impulse purchases.
7. Cancel Unused Gym Memberships
If you’re not hitting the gym regularly, it’s time to say goodbye to that monthly fee. If you decide to go again in the future, then you can sign up again.
8. Sell Items You No Longer Need
Declutter your home and make some extra cash by selling unused items online or at a garage sale. If you haven’t used it in years, it’s time to let it go. Of course, if you have a storage unit filled with stuff, get rid of that first!
Feeling overwhelmed by clutter? Join the 30 Bags in 30 Days Declutter Challenge and take the first step toward a more organized home! This free printable makes it easy to stay on track with one simple goal each day—no stress, just steady progress. Download it now and start clearing space for what truly matters.
9. Reduce Energy Consumption
Lower your electricity bill by turning off lights when not in use and unplugging appliances. Although it may not seem like much, cutting down even a bit of your electricity use can add up over time.
10. Compare Prices Before Buying
Take a moment to compare prices online or in-store to ensure you’re getting the best deal. This is especially easy to do if you shop online or use apps.
11. Use Public Transportation
Save on gas and parking by using public transit for your daily commute. Start by familiarizing yourself with the public transportation options near your home or workplace.
12. Pack Your Lunch for Work
Bringing lunch from home is not only cost-effective but also lets you control your meal choices. You can meal prep on Sunday so it’s not another chore to add to your already busy week. Even brown-bagging your lunch one day more a week can add up significantly.
13. Buy In Bulk
You can save on the items you use the most often by purchasing non-perishable items in bulk to take advantage of lower unit prices. Only do this if you are going to use the items you buy.
14. Set up Automatic Savings
Use automatic transfers to save a portion of your income each paycheck easily. This way, you aren’t tempted to spend your money.
15. Avoid Impulse Purchases
Think twice before making impulse buys. Establish a 24-hour rule before making a purchase online. That means you leave an item in your cart for 24 hours before buying. Slowing down the purchase process will make you think twice before making a purchase.
16. Plan and Prioritize Big Purchases
One of the most obvious of our money-making tips is also one of the most important. Before making a big purchase, take time to plan and prioritize your needs and wants. Do you really need the item? What do you have to give up in order to buy it? Is it worth it?
17. Shop Secondhand or Thrift Stores
You can buy clothing, household goods, and even furniture at a major discount at thrift stores. These stores are usually cheaper (especially for furniture) and is more sustainable.
18. Use Coupons and Discounts
Clip coupons and take advantage of discounts to save on everyday purchases. You can easily download apps or web extensions to make this even easier.
19. Negotiate Bills
Call your service providers and negotiate better rates for your cable, internet, software, streaming, and utilities. You would be surprised at how often this works. You can also go online and try to cancel your services. Very often, they will then offer you a deal to stay.
20. Avoid ATM Fees
Use ATMs from your bank’s network to avoid those pesky fees. A little bit of research can save you a large amount. Or better yet, switch to a bank that doesn’t charge fees at all.
21. Pack Snacks in Your Purse
Always keep a few healthy, non-perishable snacks in your purse, car, diaper bag, or other bag. This will keep you from having to buy a snack in the middle of the day or when running errands. This is especially helpful if you have kids who are going to complain the whole time you are out if they are hungry.
