A Breakdown of AARP Membership Costs
For many, the first step toward considering an AARP membership is understanding the financial commitment involved. The American Association of Retired Persons has several tiers of membership, and knowing the pricing structure can help you choose the option that best fits your budget and lifestyle.
Annual Membership Rates
Starting in 2025, the standard yearly membership fee for AARP is $20. For those who enroll in automatic renewal, the first year's fee is discounted to just $15, with subsequent years renewing at the standard $20 rate. This automatic renewal feature offers an initial savings for new members and ensures uninterrupted access to benefits.
Multi-Year Membership Discounts
For those who prefer to pay less per year over a longer term, AARP offers multi-year options that provide additional savings.
- Three-Year Membership: A one-time payment of $55, which effectively reduces the annual rate.
- Five-Year Membership: A single payment of $79, offering the best overall annual value over the long term.
These terms are ideal for individuals confident they will utilize the membership for several years, allowing them to lock in a lower average yearly price.
Unpacking the Value: AARP Benefits Beyond the Card
What does it cost to belong to AARP isn't just about the fee—it's about the value you receive in return. AARP membership provides access to an extensive array of benefits that can easily offset the annual cost, especially if you take advantage of services and discounts frequently.
Included Benefits
Every AARP membership comes with key inclusions that add significant value:
- Free Secondary Household Membership: You can add a spouse, partner, or any other adult living in your household to your account at no extra charge. This provides two members with full access to benefits for the price of one.
- Publications: Members receive subscriptions to AARP The Magazine, one of the nation's most widely read publications, and the AARP Bulletin, keeping them informed on health, finance, and other important topics.
- Advocacy: Your membership supports AARP's work advocating for the 50+ population on critical issues such as Social Security and Medicare.
A World of Discounts and Resources
One of the most compelling reasons to join is the broad range of discounts offered in categories that impact daily life:
- Travel: Save on hotels, car rentals, cruises, and vacation packages through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia.
- Dining: Access discounts at thousands of nationwide restaurant chains, including savings at Denny's and Outback Steakhouse.
- Health & Wellness: Get discounts on prescription drugs, eyewear, vision exams, and hearing care.
- Insurance: Access specialized insurance programs for auto, home, life, and health needs through AARP-endorsed providers.
- Shopping & Tech: Find savings on everything from cell phone plans with Consumer Cellular to everyday groceries with printable coupons.
Is AARP Membership the Right Choice for You?
To help you decide if the cost is worth it, consider how AARP's offerings compare to other potential savings options. The benefits are most valuable to individuals who actively use them.
Comparison: AARP vs. General Senior Discounts
| Feature | AARP Membership | General Senior Discounts (e.g., age 55+) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Open to anyone 18+, but primarily geared towards the 50+ demographic. | Varies widely; often limited to those 55 or 60 and older. |
| Consistency | Discounts are generally consistent and apply nationwide at participating locations. | Inconsistent; depends heavily on the specific business and location. |
| Range of Benefits | Extensive, covering travel, dining, insurance, health, and more. | Typically limited to specific discounts for particular goods or services. |
| Value beyond discounts | Includes free secondary membership, magazines, advocacy, and online resources. | Usually no additional benefits or resources are provided. |
| Annual Fee | Annual fee applies, but offers greater potential savings. | No annual fee, but savings are often smaller and less reliable. |
Maximizing Your Membership
To ensure your membership pays for itself, it’s best to be proactive. Sign up for the AARP Now app for easy digital access to your card and a personalized view of local deals. Explore the online benefits portal to find coupons, access travel discounts, and review your insurance options. You can view all available benefits on the official AARP website.
Making an Informed Decision
Ultimately, the value of an AARP membership comes down to individual usage. For some, the travel, dining, and insurance savings alone will cover the cost multiple times over. For others who rarely use such benefits, it may be less impactful. The low entry price, especially with the first-year auto-renewal rate, makes it a low-risk option to test out and see if the rewards outweigh the investment for your specific needs.
