Try these extreme frugal habits in 2025
Living a frugal life doesn’t mean sacrificing everything you enjoy—it’s about making smarter choices to save money and reach your financial goals. In 2025, with rising costs and unpredictable markets, extreme frugal habits are gaining popularity as a way to stay financially stable.
From creative ways to cut expenses to finding hidden savings opportunities, these strategies can make a big difference. Whether you’re saving for a big goal or just want to simplify your spending, these habits can help you take control of your finances without feeling deprived.
Why Frugal Living?
Frugal living helps you save money, spend less, and build better habits. It’s about making smart choices that cut waste and grow your savings. Whether it’s for debt freedom or boosting your net worth, a frugal lifestyle can make a big difference.
To learn more: The Ultimate Guide to a Frugal Lifestyle
Track every expense to understand where money is going
Knowing where every dollar goes helps you spot waste and adjust spending. Track your expenses daily to see where you can save money. This habit can prevent overspending and make it easier to stick to your budget.
To learn more: How to Budget Money and Still Enjoy Life
Cook meals at home and avoid dining out or takeout
Eating at home is one of the simplest ways to save money fast. By cooking your meals, you cut restaurant costs and control your food budget. Plan ahead and use leftovers to stretch your grocery bill even further.
To learn more: 100+ Frugal Meals for When You’re Broke or on a Budget
Buy second-hand clothes, furniture, and household items
Shopping second-hand saves you tons of cash on quality items. Thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces are great for finding cheap deals. Buying used is an easy way to save money while reducing waste.
To learn more: 76 Easy Thrifty Tips & Tricks to Live a More Frugal Lifestyle
Cancel unused subscriptions and memberships
Take a closer look at your recurring subscriptions and cancel those you don’t use. Even small monthly fees add up over time.
Redirect that money toward savings or debt repayment to make real progress on your financial goals.
Use a budgeting app to stay on track and set limits
Budgeting apps make it easier to manage money, track spending, and stay within limits. With reminders and insights, they help you avoid overspending. Choose one that fits your lifestyle and stick to it to hit your financial goals.
To learn more: Budgeting Apps: The Complete Guide to the Best Budget Apps
Limit impulse purchases by implementing a 24-hour waiting rule
A 24-hour waiting rule stops impulse buys and keeps spending in check. If you still want it after a day, you can decide to buy it. This habit helps prioritize needs over wants and saves money in the long run.
To learn more: The Best Shopping Habits to Embrace to Save Money
Plan meals around sales and discounts to cut grocery costs
Planning meals based on sales and discounts keeps grocery bills low. Use store flyers and coupons to maximize savings. This approach not only saves money but also helps you avoid food waste by buying only what you need.
To learn more: 20 Simple Ways on How to Save Money on Groceries
Use public transportation or carpool instead of owning a car
Public transportation and carpooling cut down on gas, insurance, and maintenance costs. If you live in a city or commute to work, this simple change can save you thousands each year while reducing your carbon footprint.
To learn more: Is a Car an Asset or Liability?
Cut energy costs by reducing electricity use and unplugging unused devices
Lowering energy bills is an easy way to save money. Turn off lights, unplug unused electronics, and adjust your thermostat. Small changes like these can lead to big savings over time without much effort.
To learn more: How to Be Frugal Green: 91+ Tips to Save Money and Environment
Avoid credit card debt by using cash or debit for purchases
Relying on cash or debit keeps you from racking up credit card debt. It’s easier to stick to a budget when spending only what you have. This habit keeps finances under control and avoids costly interest charges.
To learn more: Use the Cash Envelope System & Find Success
DIY home repairs and maintenance instead of hiring services
Doing simple home repairs yourself saves money and teaches useful skills. Watch tutorials or read guides for tasks like painting, fixing leaks, or yard work. This approach avoids high service costs and keeps your home in good shape.
Practice minimalist living by reducing unnecessary items and clutter
Minimalist living helps save money by cutting unnecessary purchases and focusing on what matters. Fewer possessions mean less spending and less stress. It’s a simple way to free up your budget and focus on your financial priorities.
To learn more: Our Journey to Own Less Stuff After 6 Weeks Without Our Things
Shop at discount stores, thrift shops, or online marketplaces
Discount stores and thrift shops offer great deals on everyday items. Online marketplaces are also great for finding affordable products. This habit helps stretch your money while still meeting your needs.
Take advantage of free events, activities, and entertainment
Free events and activities let you enjoy life without spending a fortune. Check out local options like parks, libraries, or community centers. These choices save money while offering fun and relaxation.
To learn more: 105 Fun Things To Do With No Money
Avoid brand-name products, opting for generic or store brands
Generic brands often match or beat the quality of name brands at a lower price. Whether it’s food, medicine, or cleaning products, choosing store brands is an easy way to spend less without sacrificing quality.
Limit travel and use budget-friendly accommodation and transportation options
Travel smarter by choosing budget-friendly lodging and transportation. Stay closer to home, look for deals, or use loyalty points. Reducing travel costs helps free up money for savings or other priorities.
To learn more: 5 Tips to Save Money for Travel with a Vacation Fund
Grow your own food or start a small garden to cut down on grocery bills
Growing your own fruits, vegetables, or herbs saves money on groceries. A garden also offers fresh, healthy food right from your backyard. Even a small effort can make a big difference in your grocery budget.
Buy in bulk for items that have a long shelf life
Buying in bulk saves money on household staples like rice, pasta, and cleaning supplies. Stock up on items with long shelf lives to reduce shopping trips and lower per-unit costs. This habit keeps your pantry full and your wallet happy.
To learn more: What is the Best Cheap Food to Buy When Broke?
Make your own cleaning supplies and personal care products
Homemade cleaning supplies and personal care items are budget-friendly and often healthier. Simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils work well.
Plus DIY products save money and reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
Set strict savings goals and prioritize them over unnecessary spending
Setting clear savings goals helps you stay focused on what matters. By prioritizing savings, you’re less likely to overspend. This habit builds discipline and helps you reach your financial milestones faster.
To learn more: 15 Mini Savings Challenge Printables To Save More Money
Reduce or eliminate debt to free up more money for saving and investing
Paying down debt is a key part of frugal living. Reducing or eliminating debt frees up money for saving or investing. With less debt, you have more financial freedom and stability in your life.
To learn more: How to Get Out of Debt in 5 Easy Steps
find over 200 Frugal Living Tips to Rock This year
Living a frugal lifestyle isn’t just about saving money—it’s about making smarter choices to secure your financial future. These tips show how simple changes can lead to big results, whether you’re cutting expenses, building savings, or paying off debt. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your efforts pay off.
To learn more: 175+ Simple and Easy Frugal Living Tips to Save Money
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