In 2025, frugal living has become a popular trend as individuals seek to manage rising living costs and achieve financial stability. Embracing frugality involves making intentional spending choices, reducing waste, and focusing on long-term financial goals. One effective strategy is cooking at home more often. According to a survey by The Harris Poll, 83% of U.S. consumers report that saving money is a bigger priority in 2025 than in previous years, and 81% say saving money on food is a priority. Cooking meals at home not only saves money but also promotes healthier eating habits. Batch cooking, where one meal can cover multiple days, further amplifies savings. provisioneronline.com
Another frugal habit gaining traction is reducing energy consumption. Lowering energy usage benefits both the environment and your wallet. Simple actions like replacing traditional light bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs, unplugging electronics when not in use, and investing in programmable thermostats can lead to significant savings. For instance, using LED light bulbs can reduce electricity consumption and have a longer lifespan compared to incandescent bulbs. mommoneymap.com
Consider the case of Mindy, a middle-class professional who embraced frugal living in 2025. Mindy began meal planning and batch cooking on weekends, which made avoiding expensive takeout on busy evenings easier. A programmable thermostat helped rein in her utility bills without sacrificing comfort. Instead of shopping trips to the mall, Mindy began spending Saturdays hiking at nearby state parks with her kids, packing healthy lunches from home. The whole family became more active while growing closer together. As these frugal practices added up, so did Mindy's savings. She boosted her retirement contributions while also starting college funds for her children. Her newfound financial breathing room brought a sense of empowerment and peace of mind. ([newtraderu.com](https://www.newtraderu.com/2025/01/02/7-frugal-living-tips-for-the-middle-class-in-2025/?utm_source=openai))