How many AARP members are there? An in-depth look at the numbers
Based on recent reporting from both AARP and other sources, the organization consistently cites a membership figure of nearly 38 million. This number reflects AARP's longstanding reputation and influence as a major advocacy group and provider of services for older Americans. This large and engaged membership base allows the organization to wield considerable power in lobbying efforts at the federal and state levels concerning issues such as healthcare, financial security, and personal fulfillment.
While the 38 million figure is a recent and prominent metric, older sources from around 2018 or earlier have noted similar figures, suggesting a relatively stable or slightly growing membership over time. The consistency of this number indicates that AARP has successfully maintained a robust membership despite shifts in the marketplace and the retirement landscape.
This high level of member engagement is also visible in the circulation numbers for AARP's publications. AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin are consistently among the most widely read publications in the United States, with millions of readers receiving bi-monthly issues. This strong readership further reinforces the organization's broad reach and its effectiveness in communicating with its large member base. The organization's continued relevance is also bolstered by its digital presence, with online traffic seeing significant increases during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding its reach to a tech-savvy audience of all ages.
Membership eligibility and demographics
Contrary to its former name, the American Association of Retired Persons, AARP no longer requires its members to be retired. In fact, anyone aged 18 or older can join and receive most of the benefits. While AARP's mission is focused on the interests of people 50 and older, this broader eligibility rule allows for a wider, multi-generational audience to benefit from its resources. This reflects the modern reality that retirement is no longer a one-size-fits-all concept, and many people seek to plan for their future long before turning 50. The organization also offers a free second membership for another household member, which expands the reach of its offerings.
AARP Research regularly studies its member base and the broader 50+ population to understand evolving needs and interests. Studies cover a range of topics from brain health to financial security trends and provide insight into diverse segments of the population. For instance, a 2025 survey highlighted the importance of grandparents as figures in younger generations' development, indicating a strong interest in family and community engagement.
Key member benefits and programs
An AARP membership provides access to a diverse array of benefits and programs designed to help members live their best lives. These benefits cover a wide range of categories, from everyday discounts to specialized resources. Some of the most popular offerings include:
- Discounts and Savings: Members can save on various products and services, including travel (hotels, rental cars, cruises), dining at national chains, and retail purchases. AARP Rewards is a loyalty program that offers members 50% more points on activities and exclusive rewards.
- Publications: All members receive regular issues of AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin, which are filled with helpful tips, articles on health and finance, and news updates.
- Insurance and Financial Products: AARP licenses its name to various insurance products, including Medicare Supplement plans from UnitedHealthcare. They also offer financial planning tools and resources.
- Advocacy and Education: AARP actively lobbies for issues important to its members, such as protecting Social Security and Medicare. Programs like the Fraud Watch Network help members protect themselves from scams.
- Community Resources: AARP provides tools like the Livability Index, which helps evaluate communities based on quality of life factors for older adults.
Comparison: AARP Membership at a Glance
| Feature | AARP Membership | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Current Member Count | Nearly 38 million (as of 2024/2025) | A large and stable membership base, consistently reported. |
| Eligibility Age | 18 and older | While the focus is on the 50+ community, anyone can join. |
| Membership Cost | $15 for the first year with auto-renewal, $20 per year standard | Offers flexible payment plans and multi-year discounts. |
| Mission Focus | Adults 50 and older | Advocates for health, financial stability, and personal fulfillment for this demographic. |
| Member Publications | AARP The Magazine, AARP Bulletin | Highly-circulated magazines in the U.S. that are included with membership. |
| Household Membership | Free secondary membership | One additional household member can join at no extra cost. |
AARP's broader societal impact
Beyond its direct member services, AARP's substantial membership base translates into significant advocacy power and economic influence. The organization uses its collective voice to push for legislative changes that benefit older Americans and their families. This includes critical areas like fighting for lower prescription drug costs, preserving Social Security, and promoting age diversity in employment. In 2024, for example, AARP successfully campaigned for provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act designed to reduce drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries.
Financially, AARP's size is also a major factor. The organization earns significant revenue from brand licensing agreements with commercial providers, such as its long-standing partnership with UnitedHealthcare for insurance products. This model allows AARP to provide a wide range of services and maintain its non-profit mission. The sheer economic power of the 50+ demographic is a key focus of AARP's research, which examines how this population drives economic growth and influences consumer spending.
Conclusion: The impact of AARP's large membership
With nearly 38 million members, AARP remains a dominant force in advocating for and serving the 50+ population in America. Its large and stable membership base not only provides financial stability but also gives the organization the lobbying power to influence national policy on critical issues like healthcare and retirement. The shift to including a younger demographic and the focus on digital engagement shows that AARP is adapting to a changing population, ensuring its continued relevance for generations to come. This membership number represents more than just a figure; it signifies a massive, organized group with a unified voice and a commitment to empowering people as they age.
For more information on AARP and its mission, visit their official website https://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/company/social-impact/.
