Inflation is one of the biggest complaints most Americans have about the economy, and factors like new tariffs on imports are likely to just drive prices higher. As everyday expenses rise, it feels harder and harder for hourly workers to make ends meet.

From groceries to rent, prices seem to keep rising while wages often stay the same. But there is good news. With a few new or improved financial habits, you can stretch your paycheck further in 2025 and beyond. Here’s a look at our tips to beat inflation at the supermarket and anywhere else you regularly shop.

Cut Down on Grocery Costs Without Sacrificing Nutrition

Food prices have surged over the past few years, but that doesn’t mean you have to rely on fast food or unhealthy meals. Even as egg prices skyrocket due to bird flu, you can still save at the grocery store:

• Shop Smart and Plan Ahead: Planning meals in advance helps you avoid last-minute fast food runs and expensive takeout. Sticking to a grocery list prevents impulse buys, and comparing unit prices ensures you get the best value for your money. If you can order pickup from your local grocery store without extra fees, you’re also more likely to stick to your list.
• Use Discount and Cashback Apps: Cashback apps like Ibotta, Rakuten, and Fetch Rewards give you money back on everyday grocery purchases. Many grocery stores also offer digital coupons through their apps, which can stack with in-store promotions for extra savings. You might even score a deal like “save $5 when spending $20 or more,” which is great when you would have spent that $20 anyway.
  Buy in Bulk for Staples: Purchasing non-perishable essentials in bulk from stores like Costco or Sam’s Club can lower your cost per unit. If buying in bulk feels expensive upfront, consider splitting purchases with a friend or family member to share the savings. If you don’t want to pay for a membership, ask someone you know if you can go shopping together.
• Opt for Store Brands Over Name Brands: Generic or store-brand products often have the same ingredients and quality as name brands but come at a much lower price. Sometimes, it’s the exact same item in a different package. Swapping out just a few items per shopping trip can lead to significant savings over time.
• Reduce Food Waste: Properly storing leftovers and freezing extra portions can help you avoid tossing food and wasting money. Any food that ends up in the trash is like throwing away money. Get creative with meal prep by using common ingredients in multiple dishes to ensure everything gets used.

Tip: While a quick trip to the vending machine for a cold beverage or a gas station for a snack feels like a low cost, you pay much more per item. And those costs add up over time. It’s much better to buy from a grocery store where you pay less. Consider per ounce, per pound, and per item costs to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Save on Transportation Costs

Commuting costs can take a big bite out of your paycheck, but there are plenty of easy ways to save. Public transportation is often the most affordable option, with monthly transit passes costing far less than gas and parking. Some cities and local transit agencies offer discounted fares for monthly passes and workers below a certain income, so it’s worth checking to see if you qualify for savings.

Carpooling or ride-sharing can also help reduce transportation expenses. For example, splitting the cost of gas with a coworker or friend can cut your fuel expenses in half. Apps like Waze Carpool or local Facebook groups make it easy to find people going in the same direction, making shared rides a convenient and cost-effective choice. If you work near your spouse or partner, you may have a carpool buddy built in.

Taking care of your car is another way to save money in the long run. Regular oil changes and tire rotations help prevent major breakdowns that can lead to costly repairs. Shop around for the best deals from a trusted local mechanic.

If you live close enough to work, consider alternative transportation like an electric bike or scooter. These options have lower upfront and maintenance costs than a car. Many cities also offer affordable rental programs. Investing a little upfront for a cost-effective commute can help you stretch your paycheck even further.

Reduce Your Utility Bills

Keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer can get expensive. Here’s how to lower your utility bills:

1. Be Smart with Energy Use. Unplug electronics when not in use to prevent “phantom” energy drain. If you haven’t already, switch to LED light bulbs, which last longer and use less energy.
2. Adjust Your Thermostat – Lowering the thermostat by just a few degrees in winter or raising it in the summer can lead to significant savings. Use fans instead of air conditioning whenever possible to keep cooling costs down. If you have a thermostat with scheduling features, you can turn it off or change the temperature automatically to match your work schedule.
3. Apply for Energy Assistance Programs—Many states offer programs to help low-income households with heating and electricity bills. Some utility companies also offer budget billing plans to spread costs evenly throughout the year.
4. Switch to Efficient Fixtures and Appliances—If you own your home, consider power, gas, and water usage the next time you have to replace something. For example, a low-flow toilet and shower head can significantly reduce your water bill, and an efficient fridge can significantly reduce your electricity bill.

Explore More Affordable Housing Options

Housing costs are rising, but getting a roommate can help cut expenses. Splitting rent and utilities makes living more affordable, and apps like Roomster or Craigslist can help you find shared housing. If you’re renting, try negotiating—some landlords offer discounts for early payments or longer leases. If your rent increases, ask if a smaller increase is possible.

Another way to save is by moving to a more affordable area. Lower-cost neighborhoods within commuting distance can save you hundreds each month. Suburban or rural areas often have cheaper rent than big cities, making them a smart choice if the commute works for you.

Maximize Your Income Without Overworking

Making your paycheck go further isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s also about making more money. Here’s how to boost your income:

Ask for a Raise or More Hours

• If you’ve been at your job for a while and have strong performance, request a raise. Be ready to share how you excel and provide value to the employer to justify a higher pay rate.
• Some employers offer overtime opportunities—be sure to take advantage if available.

Pick Up a Side Gig

• Gig work like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or freelance jobs on Fiverr can bring in extra income.
• Consider online tutoring, babysitting, or selling handmade goods on Etsy.
• Buying high-quality, low-cost items at garage sales and thrift stores and reselling them for a profit can be a fun and lucrative hobby.

Remember: Don’t forget about employer benefits. You may be able to get free gym access, tuition assistance, and much more through your employer at a lower cost than if you did it on your own.

Lower Debt Payments and Build Savings

High-interest debt can quickly drain your budget. To reduce costs, focus on paying off credit cards with the highest interest rates first. Transfer balances to a lower-interest card or a credit union loan if possible.

Building a savings cushion helps you avoid late fees and overdraft charges, which can quickly add up to hundreds or thousands of dollars per year. If you need a little extra cash before payday, consider Payactiv’s Earned Wage Access¹ over high-interest payday loans.

If you’re struggling with expenses, financial assistance programs can help. You can also look into community resources for rent, food, or medical bill support. Nonprofits like United Way or 211.org can connect you to local services.

Small Changes Add Up

Inflation can make budgeting tough, but with the right strategies, you can make your paycheck last longer. By cutting unnecessary expenses, finding ways to boost income, and making smart financial choices, you’ll be better prepared to handle rising costs in 2025.

Try implementing one or two of these tips today and build on them over time. The more mindful you are about your money, the more control you’ll have over your financial future.

¹Earned Wage Access requires employer participation. Employees can only access a portion of the wages they have earned to date.

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