My Top 7 Frugal Living Tips for Getting the Most Value

Understanding my lifestyle

To give you some context, I retired at the end of October after 40 years of work.

I live in rural Kansas, and although I have a small savings fund, I rely mainly on passive income streams like YouTube, TikTok, and a small investment.

The key to my financial independence? Maximizing every penny. Here’s how you can do the same.

1. DIY everything you can

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to save money is to DIY everything. From mowing the lawn to washing the car, if you can do it yourself, you should.

Paying for services can add up quickly, so if you’re capable, avoid outsourcing tasks. Of course, there are exceptions, but for the most part, taking a hands-on approach can significantly reduce your expenses.

2. Know your local area

Understanding your local area can make a huge difference in how much you spend. When I spent three and a half months in the Rio Grande Valley, I had to learn which stores offered the best prices on the items I needed. 

In my hometown, I know exactly where to shop for specific items, and this knowledge helps me save both time and money. Knowing where to shop and what to buy locally is a valuable skill that develops over time.

3. Utilize local resources

Often, local resources can be cheaper than those in bigger cities. For instance, I save $24 on every oil change by using a local shop instead of driving an hour to the city.

I also found a local contractor to install a metal roof and remodel my bathroom for a fraction of the cost I would have paid a big-city company. Building relationships with local service providers can lead to significant savings.

4. Stay on top of rising costs

As prices rise, it’s essential to evaluate what’s worth paying for and what you can cut back on.

For example, haircuts have become so expensive that I’ve reduced how often I get mine cut, and sometimes I trim it myself.

Staying informed about rising costs allows you to adjust your spending habits accordingly and keep your budget in check.

5. Use free apps and services

Take advantage of free apps and services whenever possible.

From tracking steps with a free app on my phone to using a Roku box instead of expensive cable, there are plenty of ways to enjoy entertainment and manage your health without monthly fees.

I also avoid toll roads by using GPS settings to find free routes. Small changes like these can lead to big savings over time.

6. Keep temptations low

One of the best ways to save money is to limit temptations. I don’t have shopping apps on my phone, which reduces impulsive purchases. 

Additionally, I avoid buying processed and convenience foods, which are more expensive and less healthy than cooking from scratch. By keeping temptations at bay, I’m able to maintain a frugal and mindful lifestyle.

7. Avoid trends and fads

Just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s necessary for you. I don’t own an air fryer, Stanley Cup, or earbuds, despite their popularity.

By avoiding trends and focusing on what truly adds value to your life, you can save money and reduce clutter.

Frugal living tips 

I hope these tips help you find ways to save money and get the most value out of your day-to-day life.

Whether it's DIY projects, understanding your local area, or simply resisting the urge to splurge on trends, there are countless ways to make your dollars stretch further.

If you found this helpful, please give this article a thumbs up and share your thoughts in the comments. Here's to a more frugal and fulfilling life!

Next up, here's why You Don't Need a Million Dollars to Retire!