Turning 50 and Weighing Your Options
As you reach the half-century mark, your financial planning and lifestyle considerations begin to shift. For many, this is the first time they receive an invitation to join AARP, an organization synonymous with retirement. But you don't have to be retired to join. With a membership cost starting at just $15 for the first year, it prompts a crucial question for a new generation of members: Is AARP worth it at 50?
What Exactly is AARP?
Originally known as the American Association of Retired Persons, AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people aged 50 and older. While its roots are in serving retirees, its focus has expanded to address the needs and interests of a more active and diverse 50+ population. Membership is open to anyone 18 and older, but the benefits are primarily tailored to those 50 and up.
Breaking Down the Cost vs. Benefits
As of 2025, a standard AARP membership costs $20 per year. However, you can often find deals that lower the price, such as $15 for the first year with automatic renewal. Multi-year plans can also reduce the annual cost. Each membership includes a free secondary membership for another person in your household.
The true value lies in whether the savings you gain from discounts exceed this modest annual fee. Let's explore the major benefit categories.
A Deep Dive into AARP Member Benefits
Your AARP card unlocks hundreds of discounts across various categories. The key is to actively use them.
Travel Discounts
This is often the most significant area of savings for members.
- Car Rentals: Save up to 30% on base rates at companies like Avis and Budget.
- Hotels & Resorts: Get up to 10-15% off at major chains, including Best Western, Wyndham, and Choice Hotels. Some locations offer perks like late checkout.
- Flights & Vacation Packages: Members can get up to $200 off round-trip flights with British Airways and save on vacation packages booked through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia.
Dining & Entertainment
- Restaurants: Enjoy 10-15% off your bill at popular chains like Denny's (15%), Outback Steakhouse (10%), Carrabba's Italian Grill (10%), and Bonefish Grill (10%).
- Movies & Events: Save on Regal ePremiere tickets purchased online and get discounts on tickets for shows like Cirque du Soleil.
Health & Wellness
- Prescription Drugs: The AARP Prescription Discounts program can offer savings on FDA-approved medications not covered by your current insurance.
- Vision & Dental: Members get access to vision and dental insurance plans with reduced rates on exams, glasses, and procedures.
- Gym Memberships: Some fitness programs and gym memberships offer discounts to AARP members.
Insurance & Financial Tools
- Auto & Home Insurance: AARP members can access auto and home insurance programs from The Hartford. While not always the cheapest, they often come with benefits like lifetime renewability.
- Life Insurance: AARP offers life insurance policies through New York Life, including term and whole life options, some of which do not require a medical exam.
- Financial Resources: Members get free access to financial planning tools, retirement calculators, and fraud prevention resources.
AARP Pros vs. Cons at Age 50: A Comparison Table
| Pros (Why It's Worth It) | Cons (Why It Might Not Be) |
|---|---|
| Low Annual Cost: The membership fee is easily recouped with just a few uses. | You Don't Use the Discounts: If your lifestyle doesn't involve frequent travel or dining out at partner locations, the value diminishes. |
| Immediate Access to Discounts: Start saving on everyday purchases, travel, and dining right away. | Better Deals Elsewhere: Some credit cards or other loyalty programs may offer similar or better discounts. |
| Valuable Insurance Options: Access to specially negotiated group rates for auto, home, and health insurance. | Insurance Isn't Always Cheaper: The Hartford or New York Life rates may not be the most competitive for your specific profile. |
| Advocacy and Information: Supports lobbying efforts for issues like Social Security and Medicare, and provides trusted publications. | Unwanted Marketing: Membership can lead to a significant increase in marketing mail and emails from AARP and its partners. |
| Free Second Membership: A spouse or partner gets a free card, doubling the potential for use. | Benefits Geared Towards Older Seniors: Some benefits, like certain health products, may not be relevant to a healthy 50-year-old. |
Beyond the Discounts: AARP's Role in Advocacy and Information
Beyond the tangible discounts, a membership fee supports AARP's mission. The organization is a powerful lobbying force in Washington, D.C., advocating on behalf of Americans 50+ on critical issues like Social Security solvency, Medicare benefits, and age discrimination in the workplace. Members also receive AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin, which provide valuable information on health, money, and lifestyle. For more details on the full range of benefits, you can visit the official AARP website.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict for a 50-Year-Old
So, is AARP worth it at 50? For most people, the answer is a resounding yes. The cost of entry is incredibly low, and it's highly likely that you'll save more than the membership fee with just one or two uses—a single hotel stay or a few discounted meals could cover the entire year's cost.
At 50, you are in a prime position to maximize the benefits. You are likely still traveling, dining out, and making significant financial decisions where the discounts and resources can provide substantial value. The best approach is to try it for a year. Track your savings and see if the benefits align with your lifestyle. Given the low risk and high potential for reward, it's a financially sound decision for the vast majority of people entering their fifties.
