AARP membership costs for seniors in 2025
For seniors, the cost of an AARP membership varies depending on the term length and whether you sign up for automatic renewal. While the standard annual rate is $20, AARP provides several ways to reduce this cost, making it an affordable investment for many. Choosing a longer-term membership is the most effective way to lower your annual rate.
Membership pricing options
Here are the primary membership options and their associated costs, based on official AARP sources:
- One-Year Membership (with Automatic Renewal): The initial rate is $15 for the first year. The membership automatically renews at the standard annual rate thereafter.
- One-Year Membership (Standard): A non-renewing one-year membership is $20.
- Three-Year Membership: A single payment of $55, which offers a slight discount compared to paying annually.
- Five-Year Membership: A single payment of $79, providing the best annual rate.
It's also worth noting that AARP memberships include a free secondary membership for a spouse or any other adult in the household. This effectively doubles the value for couples.
Is an AARP membership worth the cost?
To determine if an AARP membership is a good value for you, it’s essential to consider the potential savings from its extensive list of benefits. For many, a single discount can cover the cost of membership.
Key member benefits and discounts
- Travel: Members can save up to 35% on Avis and Budget car rentals, get deals on cruises and vacation packages through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia, and find discounts at hotels like Best Western and Hilton.
- Insurance: AARP-endorsed insurance options are available for vehicles, homes, and mobile homes through The Hartford. Other plans cover life, health, and dental.
- Health and Wellness: Discounts are available on vision care at locations like LensCrafters and Target Optical. The AARP Prescription Discounts card can also provide savings on FDA-approved medications at participating pharmacies.
- Shopping and Restaurants: Savings are available at numerous restaurants, including 10% off at Outback Steakhouse and Carrabba’s, and 15% off at Denny's. Discounts can also be found on groceries, gifts, and cell phone plans.
- Entertainment and Resources: Members get access to exclusive online games, movies, magazines, and tools for financial planning, caregiving, and fraud protection.
How benefits can outweigh the fees
Even with the lowest membership cost, a single benefit can make the investment worthwhile. For example, some AT&T customers with an AARP membership can save $10 per month per line on select plans. A couple with two lines could save $240 per year, far exceeding the annual membership fee. Those who travel frequently could also see significant savings on hotel stays and car rentals.
How AARP's pricing for seniors compares
| Membership Option | First Year Cost | Subsequent Year Cost | Additional Household Member | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One-Year (Auto-Renew) | $15 | $20 | Free | Those wanting to test the membership or secure the lowest initial rate. |
| One-Year (Standard) | $20 | $20 | Free | Members who prefer to manually renew each year. |
| Three-Year | ~$18.33/yr ($55 total) | N/A | Free | People who are certain they will use the benefits for a few years and want a set price. |
| Five-Year | ~$15.80/yr ($79 total) | N/A | Free | The most committed members who want the lowest possible annual rate. |
How to join or renew AARP
Joining or renewing your AARP membership is a straightforward process.
- Online: Visit the official AARP website and choose your preferred membership term to sign up. You can use a credit/debit card or an e-check. A digital membership card is available immediately after signing up online.
- By Phone: For a more personal touch, you can call the toll-free membership number at 1-888-687-2277.
- By Mail: If you've received a mailer, you can fill out the form and send it back with your payment.
Conclusion
For seniors, the cost of an AARP membership in 2025 is remarkably affordable, starting as low as $15 for the first year with automatic renewal. With standard annual rates at $20 and multi-year options providing even better value, the cost is often negligible compared to the potential savings. Given the wide array of discounts on everyday expenses like travel, dining, and insurance, as well as access to valuable resources, many find the membership to be a financially wise decision. Evaluating your individual usage and potential savings is key, but for many, the benefits far outweigh the modest annual fee. You can explore all member benefits at AARP.org.
Membership options at a glance
- First-Year Special Rate: New members who opt for automatic renewal pay just $15 for their first year.
- Standard Annual Rate: The regular annual cost is $20.
- Multi-Year Savings: Discounts are available for purchasing a three-year membership for $55 or a five-year membership for $79.
- Free Secondary Membership: A spouse or another adult in the household can be added at no extra charge.
- Value Proposition: A single discount, such as on a multi-line cell phone plan or a major purchase, can easily pay for the entire membership cost.
- No Age Requirement: While focused on seniors, AARP membership is open to anyone over 18, though some benefits may have age restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much is an AARP membership for one year for seniors? A: For seniors, a standard one-year membership costs $20. However, if you enroll in automatic renewal, the first year is available for the discounted rate of $15.
Q: Is AARP membership free for seniors? A: No, an AARP membership is not free for seniors. It is a paid membership, but a free secondary membership is included for a spouse or other adult household member.
Q: How much does AARP cost a month? A: AARP memberships are paid annually. With the $15 first-year automatic renewal rate, the monthly equivalent is $1.25. The standard $20 annual rate breaks down to about $1.67 per month.
Q: Does AARP offer a lifetime membership? A: AARP no longer offers a lifetime membership option. The longest available term is a five-year plan, which costs $79 and provides the best overall annual rate.
Q: What benefits do you get with an AARP membership? A: Benefits include a wide range of discounts on travel (hotels, rental cars), insurance, restaurants, shopping, and cell phone plans. Members also receive subscriptions to AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin.
Q: Do I have to be 50 to join AARP? A: No, you do not have to be 50 to join. AARP membership is open to anyone 18 or older. While the organization focuses on issues for people 50+, many benefits are available to members of all ages.
Q: Is an AARP membership worth it if you are under 50? A: For many, yes. The potential savings on travel, dining, and other purchases can easily outweigh the low annual cost, even if you are under 50. Some age restrictions apply to certain benefits, like specific insurance products.
Q: Is there an AARP membership discount for veterans? A: Yes, AARP offers a military discount. For veterans and military members, AARP provides a special offer that can lead to significant savings on a membership.
