Living On The Cheap - because it's about thriving not just surviving

Fun things to do with kids on spring break and other school holidays

We all know it's coming, but still it seems as if spring break or another school holiday has arrived and you have no idea how to keep the kids occupied. Here's an assortment of fun activities to get you started. Some are … [Read More...]

12 fixes that will get you a higher price for your house

If you’re looking to sell your home quickly and for top dollar, … [Read More...]

18 cheap and easy DIY home improvement projects

You bought a new home, and the list of projects that need to be … [Read More...]

How to find a reliable, honest home contractor

For most homeowners, the hardest part of any home renovation … [Read More...]

Projects to bring your 1950s house into the modern age

Perhaps you’ve inherited your grandparents’ house. Or, maybe … [Read More...]

5 things to consider when buying a used lawn mower

One of my readers, Amanda, recently moved into her first home … [Read More...]

More Money-Saving Tips

26 adaptable recipes and menu ideas for $4-a-day budget meal planning

Here’s a plan to save both your food budget and your sanity: Shop what’s on sale and cook more or less the same family favorite dishes every week. Here’s how to do it along with 26 easy recipes to get you started.

How I slashed $25,000 in credit-card debt to zero

One of our writers eliminated $25,000 in credit card debt in 29 months. Here’s what she had to get rid of — and what she gained.

What to know about student loans before you borrow

Struggling to understand the various types of student loans? Here’s what you need to know.

12 hacks to cut your grocery bill in half

You don’t have to be an extreme couponer or treat a supermarket visit like you’re invading a hostile country. Here are 12 simple ways to cut your grocery bills in half — including one research-based tip that we bet you’ve never heard of.

Frugal living guide: How to have less stuff and save money

Here are ways you can reduce consumption, shop more thoughtfully, limit the amount of stuff you have, and painlessly adopt a happier, healthier and more frugal living style.

How to shop and save at ALDI

ALDI is a discount grocery with a devoted following among penny pinchers. Here’s what to know before you go (like bringing a quarter to unlock the carts) and what items are a must-buy.

How to save money on gas

When budgets are squeezed, saving money on gas is one of the first people look for savings. Here are our best tips for how to spend less on gasoline for your vehicle.

The secret to serving a quick, cheap family dinner every night

How can you keep your family meals inexpensive and easy? Our expert (who’s also a mom) maps out a day-to-day guide.

7 ways to save without downsizing your lifestyle

Ever heard of a “reverse grocery list”? It’s one of the ways you can save money without downsizing your lifestyle. And yes, there’s an app for that.

10 Depression-era hacks and frugal living ideas to save money now

During the Great Depression, people employed 1930s frugality and simple-living tricks to save money and survive the lean years. Use their tricks to save money today.

Find more helpful Money Tips

Frugal ways to celebrate Easter

The Easter holiday can be hard on a family’s budget. You’ve just made it through Christmas and Valentine’s Day, and now … [Read More...]

Easter egg decorating ideas

Easter egg decorating, for some, can be an art. I love the idea of doing something a bit beyond the run-of-the-mill dye … [Read More...]

Grow your own live Easter basket

Delight family and friends with a "live" Easter basket this year. Eye-catching plant baskets containing tasty, … [Read More...]

Free Passover resources for families with children

Children play an important role at the Passover celebration. One of the most well-known moments of the Jewish holiday is … [Read More...]

Fun things to do with kids on spring break and other school holidays

It’s Spring Break and you have no idea how to keep the kids occupied for the whole week. You don’t need to spend money on an expensive Spring Break camp. Check out these creative, cheap and fun things to do.

Gift ideas for teachers that will earn you an A+

Stumped about what to give your favorite teachers? Here are affordable, practical ideas sure to earn you an A+.

Teacher Appreciation Week deals and freebies 2023

It’s time to recognize our educators during National Teacher Appreciation Week (the first full week of May) and Teacher Appreciation Day (the first Tuesday in May). We did your homework for you and found these deals and freebies.