No matter where you are in life, there are some frugal living tips that can work for you and some that just don’t make sense. Here are 10 ways lower-middle-class men can save money.
Cook at Home More Often
Listen, the drive-through is very tempting and so is getting a pizza and beer, but the crockpot exists, and so does homemade pizza. Start making simple recipes at home and cut down on all that extra expense.
Shop Discount Grocery Stores
Aldi, Lidl, or store brands often offer the same quality for much less. Stick to the staples and skip pricey convenience foods.
Plan a Weekly Menu
Base meals on what’s on sale and what you already have. This cuts food waste and prevents last-minute takeout splurges.
Buy Secondhand First
Furniture, clothes, and even kids’ toys can often be found gently used at thrift stores, yard sales, or online marketplaces.
Cut Back on Subscriptions
Look through your streaming, gym, and app subscriptions. Cancel what you don’t use often and rotate services instead of keeping them all year.
DIY Small Repairs
Learning how to handle minor fixes (leaky faucet, squeaky door, basic car maintenance) saves hundreds on service calls. You probably already know how to do most of it yourself. You can also swap tools and services with a neighbor or friend (you do the faucet and he changes your oil).
Use Cash-Back and Rewards Programs
Apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, or store loyalty cards can shave a little extra off regular purchases. Google your favorite store and see if they have a rewards program you can join.
Embrace No-Spend Days
Challenge yourself to go one or two days each week without spending anything. It builds discipline and keeps impulse buys in check.
Buy in Bulk (Smartly)
Stick to bulk purchases for items you always use (toilet paper, rice, beans, pasta). Don’t stockpile perishable items you’ll throw away.
Find Free Fun
Swap pricey outings for community events, free concerts, library programs, and potlucks with friends. Entertainment doesn’t need to be expensive. Go hang by the lake and have fun!
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