Groceries, gas, electricity, nearly everything costs more than it used to. For many households, the pressure to stretch every dollar is becoming a daily concern.
Finding the best ways to save money isn’t just a nice idea. It’s essential. That’s why even the smallest everyday adjustments, like skipping takeout or unplugging appliances, can have a big impact over time.
Ipsos iSay asked members across the U.S.* how they save, why they do it, and where they look for inspiration. The results reveal how people are making smart choices, on their terms, in their own homes.
Let’s look at what the community had to say.
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Best Ways to Save Money - What We Actually Do
Ipsos iSay respondents revealed the most common everyday savings strategies. Here’s what they shared and why it works.
Cooking at Home
70% of people say cooking at home is their go-to daily saving habit. Planning meals and skipping restaurant takeout cuts down on “spending money on things” you don’t need. It’s one of the easiest ways to save, since groceries are often cheaper per serving than even a mid-range meal out.
Avoiding Impulse Buys
Sixty-two percent of respondents are intentional about spending. Regardless of whether it’s resisting online deals or skipping unplanned checkout items, a simple rule like “create a shopping list” can make a difference.
This helps manage your money and stick to your budget month to month. Insights into money habits in today's economy show that many are becoming more cautious with their purchases. The shift in how people spend reflects broader economic trends and highlights the need for smart, mindful choices.
Meal Prepping & Energy Saving
Forty-six percent prep meals to avoid food waste. This goes hand in hand with another smart move: 50% of people report consciously saving on electricity, turning lights off or adjusting the thermostat, to cut monthly expenses.
Cashback and Bulk Buying
Half of those surveyed use cashback rewards on groceries, bills, or e-commerce purchases. Meanwhile, 33% shop in bulk, which helps reduce overall food costs. Pairing bulk items with cash-back habits can boost your savings account balance and reach your financial goals faster.
Budgeting & Subscriptions
Nearly half (49%) stick to a budget, tracking monthly bills, making sure “money goes where it needs to.” Another 37% report canceling or reducing subscriptions, which trim unnecessary monthly expenses.
Other Hacks
Fifteen percent report making DIY cleaning products to reduce costs, like DIY cleaners using vinegar, baking soda, or essential oils. These small moves can add up and help maintain financial security.
Why We Save - Everyday Motivations
Here is why we save.
Reducing Stress
For 67%, saving means feeling more in control. They’re able to “pay yourself first,” avoid living paycheck to paycheck, and build an emergency fund.
Goal‑Oriented Savings
A majority (57%) say they save for something specific: a trip, a down payment, or a major purchase. Automating transfers into savings aligns with their savings goal, which makes it easier to reach.
Simplifying Life & Increasing Income
Forty-two percent want a simpler life and less clutter. Forty percent aim to increase disposable income to have more “money available” for the things that matter, not just things themselves.
Environmental Reasons
Sixteen percent say saving money also helps the planet because there is less waste, fewer single-use items, and mindful consumption, which ties into eco-conscious habits.
Best Ways to Learn About Saving Money
Ipsos iSay respondents shared how they gather money-saving tips. Here’s where they turn, and how you can use those sources too.
Social Circle
A strong 51% say they learn from friends and family. Conversations about budgeting apps, negotiating bills, or meal-planning hacks often spark new ideas. These daily discussions can plant seeds of change.
Books & Blogs
About 34% turn to books or personal finance blogs. Reading about savings journeys and practical guides, like the classic “put money aside first”, helps people build consistent habits.
Online Experts
32% follow finance influencers, authors, or “financial professionals” on social media. Their tips, such as automating savings into a checking account or using direct deposit to fund a savings plan, provide sweet reminders.
Many also look to broader social and economic trends for guidance. For instance, understanding Americans' views on discounts and payment options can influence your own strategies when navigating sales, promotions, and online purchases. These perspectives offer a useful benchmark for evaluating deals and optimizing spending.
Apps
One in four (24%) use financial apps. Many rely on them to track spending, monitor credit card charges, or automate transfers to a high-yield savings or retirement account. These tools help users save more effectively.
Workshops
Only 11% say they attend workshops. Group classes, often run through banks, nonprofits, or community centres, help you learn practical money-saving strategies and connect with support networks. A missed opportunity for many, but one worth exploring.
Tips for Starting (or Restarting) a Saving Habit
If you don’t have a saving plan yet (that’s about 12% of people), there’s no time like now to begin. Even occasional savers (39%) can take small steps and level up.
Start Small & Automate
Set aside a small amount every month, maybe 5–10% of your paycheck, and schedule it for direct deposit into savings. Over time, this builds an emergency fund and financial cushion.
Use the 30-Day Rule
Before buying non-essential items (like a new car accessory or streaming subscription), wait 30 days. If you still want it later, go for it. This can help avoid impulse buys and improve money habits.
Track Spending & Make Lists
Create a shopping list before going to the store and keep it on your phone. Check your bank or credit statements weekly to know where your money is going.
Automate & Reduce Bills
Review subscriptions (streaming services, apps, etc.). Cancel what you don’t use and set bills to autopay. Small adjustments, like cutting a phone plan or negotiating home insurance, add up fast.
With major elections affecting the economy and household budgets, some people are re-evaluating how they manage finances. Exploring how others approach personal finance during election season can offer valuable strategies to adapt during uncertain times. It’s a reminder that saving is also about responding to a larger financial landscape.
Visualise Your Goals
Regardless of whether it’s for a house, a high-yield investment account, or retirement savings, keeping your goals visible helps motivate. Break them down by months of living expenses, and celebrate milestones.
Build Momentum
Start simple, with meal prep, streamlined groceries, or saving on energy bills. Each small win helps cement the habit. You’ll save more money when financial goals feel achievable.
Keep Saving Simple and Steady
Saving money doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s not about cutting out all joy or living on the bare minimum. It’s more about making intentional choices with what you earn.
Think about your current habits.
Are they helping you reach your goals, or just getting you through the month? Start with one small adjustment from this community: maybe it’s cooking one extra meal at home this week or setting up that first auto-transfer to a savings account.
Every small decision adds up. And over time, they build the confidence and freedom that come with financial peace of mind.
Want to keep the conversation going? Join Ipsos iSay surveys to share your money-saving mindset, and check your dashboard regularly for new ways to learn from others just like you.
*Source: Ipsos study conducted May 27 - 31, 2025, on 1,000 US Ipsos iSay members
