AARP Membership Costs for 2025
For those considering joining, it's important to understand the different pricing options available directly from AARP. While the standard annual rate is $20, you can secure lower rates for both initial and long-term memberships by choosing certain payment and commitment options.
Single and Multi-Year Plan Costs
Here is a breakdown of the membership fees for 2025, depending on the term you select:
- One-Year with Automatic Renewal: The first year costs $15. Your membership will renew automatically at the standard $20 annual rate thereafter.
- Standard One-Year: If you opt out of automatic renewal, the rate is $20 per year.
- Three-Year Plan: A one-time payment of $55 gives you a discounted rate for three years. This provides an 8% savings over paying the annual rate individually.
- Five-Year Plan: The most cost-effective option is the five-year plan, available for a one-time payment of $79. This offers a 21% savings compared to paying yearly.
Adding a Household Member for Free
One of the most valuable aspects of an AARP membership is that it includes a second membership for any adult in your household at no extra charge. This allows a spouse, partner, or other household adult to access the same discounts and benefits. The secondary member will receive their own card, making it simple for both individuals to take advantage of the perks.
Weighing the Cost Against the Benefits
To determine if an AARP membership is a worthwhile investment, you must consider the potential savings and resources available. For many, a single discount on a trip or an insurance policy can cover the annual fee several times over.
Comparison Table: AARP Membership Plans
| Plan Type | First Year Cost | Subsequent Years Cost | Total 3-Year Cost | Total 5-Year Cost | Included Memberships |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Year (Auto-Renew) | $15 | $20 | $55 | $95 | Two (Primary + Household) |
| 1-Year (Standard) | $20 | $20 | $60 | $100 | Two (Primary + Household) |
| 3-Year (Standard) | Not applicable | Not applicable | $55 | N/A | Two (Primary + Household) |
| 5-Year (Standard) | Not applicable | Not applicable | N/A | $79 | Two (Primary + Household) |
How Discounts Add Up
By using the member benefits strategically, you can quickly see a return on your investment. For example, members can save:
- Up to 35% on Avis and Budget car rentals.
- 10-15% at popular restaurant chains like Denny's, Outback Steakhouse, and Carrabba's Italian Grill.
- On health-related expenses, including dental and vision insurance plans, as well as prescription drugs.
- By linking your Exxon Mobil Rewards+ account, earning more points on fuel and other purchases.
- On insurance for auto, home, life, and more through partner providers like The Hartford and New York Life.
What to Consider Before Joining
While AARP offers extensive benefits, it's worth reviewing if they align with your lifestyle. For avid travelers, the hotel and rental car discounts could be a huge win. For those concerned about health and finances, the insurance and financial planning resources may be most appealing.
Another point is the age requirement, or lack thereof. While AARP primarily advocates for people 50 and over, anyone 18 and older can join and access most benefits, though some age-restricted products like certain insurance policies are an exception.
For potential members concerned about marketing communications, it's possible to opt out of some of the mailings you might receive after joining.
AARP vs. AAA
While AARP and AAA both offer a variety of discounts, they focus on different core services. AAA is primarily focused on automotive services and travel, whereas AARP caters to adults ages 50+ with a broader range of services covering health, finance, and advocacy.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether an AARP membership is worth the cost depends on your individual needs and how frequently you will use the offered benefits. At $15 for the first year with auto-renewal, the barrier to entry is low, making it easy to test the program's value for yourself. With a free secondary membership, your household essentially gets access to a wide range of savings and resources for an affordable annual fee. Considering the numerous discounts available on dining, travel, insurance, and more, the potential savings often outweigh the cost of membership, making it a sound financial decision for many. To see the full scope of offerings, you can visit the AARP website.
