Understanding AARP Membership Costs for 2025
For those considering joining, the cost of an AARP membership is surprisingly affordable and varies depending on the term you select. Following its price adjustment in early 2025, AARP continues to offer multiple membership options designed to provide long-term value.
One-Year Membership Options
If you prefer a one-year commitment, you have two payment options:
- One-Year with Automatic Renewal: The most affordable way to start, this option costs $15 for the first year. After the first year, your membership will automatically renew at the standard annual rate of $20. You can cancel automatic renewal at any time.
- Standard One-Year: If you prefer not to use automatic renewal, the standard rate for a single year of membership is $20.
Multi-Year Membership for Greater Savings
For those confident in their long-term use of AARP benefits, multi-year plans offer a reduced annual rate, saving you money over time.
- Three-Year Membership: A single payment of $55 locks in your membership for three years, saving you 8% off the annual rate.
- Five-Year Membership: A one-time payment of $79 secures five years of membership, providing a substantial 21% discount off the annual rate.
Free Second Household Membership
Regardless of the plan you choose, every AARP membership includes a complimentary second membership for another adult living in your household. This means both you and your spouse or partner can access all the benefits for a single fee.
What's Included with Your AARP Membership?
Your AARP dues provide access to a wide array of benefits, advocacy, and resources. Here is a breakdown of what you receive.
Publications and Resources
- AARP The Magazine: A subscription to the world's largest-circulation magazine, filled with articles on health, finance, entertainment, and more.
- AARP Bulletin: A monthly news source covering issues important to the 50+ community.
- Online Access: Full access to the AARP website and the AARP Now app, featuring news, games, and benefit information.
Discounts on Goods and Services
- Travel: Savings on hotels, rental cars, cruises, and vacation packages through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia.
- Restaurants: Discounts at numerous national chains, including Outback Steakhouse and Denny's.
- Shopping: Savings on technology, retail purchases, and groceries.
- Entertainment: Discounts on movie tickets and access to free online content.
Insurance and Health-Related Benefits
- Insurance: Access to AARP-endorsed insurance plans for auto, home, health, and life, provided by trusted companies.
- Prescription Discounts: A program offering savings on FDA-approved medications at participating pharmacies.
- Health and Wellness: Resources and discounts for vision, hearing, and fitness.
Financial and Career Resources
- Financial Planning: Tools and resources to assist with retirement planning and money management.
- Job Boards: An online jobs board connecting job seekers over 50 with employers.
- Fraud Protection: Access to the AARP Fraud Watch Network to protect against scams.
Comparing AARP Membership Tiers
To help you decide which membership plan is best for you, here is a quick comparison of the different options.
| Membership Option | First-Year Cost | Subsequent Annual Cost (if applicable) | Multi-Year Discount | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Year (Auto-Renew) | $15 | $20 | N/A | Free household member, magazine, benefits access |
| 1 Year (Standard) | $20 | $20 | N/A | Free household member, magazine, benefits access |
| 3 Years | $55 (one-time) | N/A | 8% off annual rate | Free household member, magazine, benefits access |
| 5 Years | $79 (one-time) | N/A | 21% off annual rate | Free household member, magazine, benefits access |
Is an AARP Membership Worth the Cost?
For many, the value of an AARP membership significantly outweighs the annual cost. For a small investment, members can unlock substantial savings on everyday expenses like dining and travel, as well as more significant purchases like insurance. For instance, the savings from a single hotel stay or an insurance policy discount could cover the cost of dues for an entire year. Furthermore, the resources related to health, finances, and caregiving offer valuable support beyond monetary savings. To see the full range of benefits and calculate potential savings, visit the official AARP benefits page.
Explore all AARP Member Benefits
Managing Your Membership: Renewal and Cancellation
Joining and managing your AARP membership is designed to be straightforward. You can sign up online, by phone, or by mail. If you opt for the automatic renewal, you will receive a reminder before your card is charged each year.
If you decide that membership is no longer right for you, AARP offers a flexible cancellation policy. You can cancel at any time and receive a pro-rated refund. For automatic renewal, you can cancel online through your account settings or by calling customer service.
Conclusion: Evaluating Your AARP Dues
Ultimately, the value of your AARP membership is what you make of it. By actively engaging with the discounts and resources available, you can easily recoup your annual dues and enjoy a wide range of perks. The updated pricing in 2025 remains competitive, with multi-year options offering the best long-term value. With the inclusion of a free household member and access to extensive resources, AARP provides a comprehensive package for a minimal annual fee.
