How AARP Pricing Works: A Breakdown
AARP membership costs are designed to offer flexibility, with different prices for annual and multi-year terms. The standard annual rate is $20 per year. However, AARP incentivizes new members and those who opt for auto-renewal or longer commitments with discounted rates. Knowing how these different options work is key to finding the lowest possible price.
The Absolute Cheapest: The First-Year Automatic Renewal Offer
The lowest price for a new AARP membership is currently $15 for the first year, provided you sign up for automatic renewal. This is a promotional rate, and your membership will renew at the standard annual rate of $20 per year thereafter. Automatic renewal is a convenient way to ensure uninterrupted access to your benefits, but it is important to remember the rate changes after the initial year. You have the flexibility to cancel the automatic renewal at any time, but doing so after the first year will revert your payments to the standard $20 annual rate.
Multi-Year Membership Terms: Locking in Long-Term Savings
For those who plan to be an AARP member for the long haul, choosing a multi-year term can offer better overall savings compared to paying annually, even with the auto-renewal discount. Multi-year plans require a one-time payment upfront but lock in a lower effective annual rate for the entire term. The current options are:
- 3-Year Membership: A single payment of $55, which averages out to approximately $18.33 per year.
- 5-Year Membership: A single payment of $79, averaging out to just $15.80 per year. This makes the five-year plan the cheapest option long-term and close to the first-year auto-renew price.
Opting for a multi-year plan removes the worry of annual renewals and potential price increases in the future.
What About a Free Membership? The Household Add-On
A major value-add to any AARP membership is the ability to add a second person from your household for free. This person receives their own membership card and has access to all the same discounts and benefits. For a couple or a family member living together, this effectively halves the per-person cost of the membership, making the already low price even more valuable. This is one of the most underutilized perks of joining and is a great way to maximize your investment.
AARP Membership Cost Comparison Table
To clearly see the different pricing options, refer to this table. All prices are for a new membership and assume the free second household member is added.
| Membership Term | Initial Cost | Effective Annual Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Year (Auto-Renew) | $15 | $15 (Yr 1) / $20 (Yr 2+) | The cheapest first-year option. |
| 1 Year (Standard) | $20 | $20 | Standard annual rate. |
| 3 Years (One-time) | $55 | ~$18.33 | Good for medium-term savings. |
| 5 Years (One-time) | $79 | ~$15.80 | The cheapest long-term option. |
Is an AARP Membership Worth the Cost?
With even the lowest rates, is a membership worthwhile? For many, the answer is a resounding yes. A single, well-used discount can easily cover the annual fee. Consider some of the most popular savings opportunities:
- Travel Discounts: Save up to 30% on car rentals from Avis and Budget, and receive discounts at many hotel chains.
- Restaurant Savings: Get 10% or more off your bill at popular chains like Outback Steakhouse, Denny's, and Bonefish Grill.
- Insurance Savings: Access special rates and discounts on auto and home insurance policies from The Hartford, potentially saving hundreds of dollars annually.
- Exclusive Member Benefits: Earn points with the AARP Rewards program and receive a subscription to AARP The Magazine. The organization also actively advocates for issues important to older adults, such as protecting Medicare and Social Security.
Finding the Best Deal for You
Determining the best and cheapest AARP membership depends on your financial situation and how long you plan to maintain your membership. If you are uncertain about the value, the $15 first-year auto-renewal is a low-risk way to test the waters and explore the benefits. For those who are confident they will use the discounts for years to come, locking in the low average annual rate with the five-year plan is the most economical choice. Don't forget to take advantage of the free second household member, regardless of which plan you choose, to maximize the value you receive. For more information on all the benefits, a great place to start is the official AARP website at https://www.aarp.org/membership/.
Joining at Any Age: What to Know
While many people associate AARP with retirees, membership is actually open to anyone aged 18 or older. The organization’s primary focus is on the 50+ demographic, but younger members can still benefit from the vast majority of discounts on travel, dining, and other products. It’s important to note, however, that some specific benefits, particularly certain insurance products, may have age-related restrictions.
Conclusion: Maximize Your Savings
Ultimately, the cheapest AARP membership for most new members will be the $15 first-year offer with automatic renewal. However, the five-year plan offers the lowest effective annual cost over the long term. By choosing the right plan for your needs and adding a free household member, you can ensure you are getting the most value possible from your AARP membership and all the discounts and resources it provides.
