Taking good care of your skin shouldn’t mean spending a fortune. In 2025, Americans are part of a thriving skincare culture — but it comes with real costs. According to industry data, U.S. households spend an average of around $492 per year on skincare products alone, and personal care spending …
How to Save Money During Cold Weather Without Freezing
A national energy analysis by the National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA) projects U.S. home heating costs will rise about 7.6% this winter, increasing the average from about $907 to $976 (~$995 in some forecasts). According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), households using electricity to heat will pay …
I Cut My Phone Bill in Half — Here’s What Your Carrier Won’t Tell You
If you’re like most Americans, your monthly mobile phone bill isn’t some tiny number you barely notice — it’s a recurring expense that feels like just part of life. In 2025, the typical U.S. household with a mobile phone bill pays about $96 per month, equating to roughly $1,152 a …
February on a Budget: Small Days, Big Savings
In early 2025, Americans saved around 5.1%–5.2% of their disposable income, reflecting a modest rebound from previous years. As the year progressed, the U.S. personal saving rate trended down toward ~3.5%–4.1% by late 2025, with November 2025 at ~3.5%. February may be the shortest month of the year—but that doesn’t …
How Raising Chickens Saved Me Money Over Time
When I first considered raising chickens, I thought it was just a hobby for rural homesteads. But after some research, I realized that keeping a small flock in my backyard could actually save me money, improve my food quality, and even offer a little extra income. It did require some …
What to Do If You Have Over $1,000 in Your Checking Account
According to recent data, 40% of Americans keep $500 or less in their checking account, and only a smaller portion maintain higher balances — meaning that having more than $1,000 already puts you ahead of many households. The average checking account balance in the U.S. is about $16,891, but the …
How to Use Coupons at Curbside Grocery Pickup (And Still Save Big)
Curbside grocery pickup has become a popular choice for busy households looking to save time and avoid impulse spending inside stores. What many shoppers don’t realize, however, is that you can still use coupons effectively with curbside pickup—and sometimes even save more than you would in-store. With the right strategy, …
Living Large on Less: How Downsizing Can Transform Your Life and Finances
📊 Home Size & Downsizing Trends New single-family homes in the U.S. have been getting smaller over recent years, with the median size around 2,200 square feet in 2023, reflecting a broader shift toward downsizing and more affordable spaces. Many Americans are adapting to rising housing costs and reduced space …
Best Stores to Use Coupons and Save Big on Everyday Shopping
Shopping wisely is one of the most effective ways for households to stretch their budget, and couponing is a time-tested strategy that can significantly reduce your expenses. In the U.S. today, many families spend a large portion of their income on essentials like groceries and household items — for example, …
Love Without the Price Tag: Meaningful Date Ideas That Cost Nothing
Spending quality time together is essential in any relationship, but it doesn’t have to come with a price tag. Many couples feel pressure to plan expensive dinners, weekend getaways, or entertainment-filled dates to stay connected. In reality, emotional closeness comes from shared experiences, honest conversations, and being fully present with …