AARP membership offers a wide range of benefits and discounts for adults aged 50 and older, though anyone 18 or older can join. The cost to join AARP is quite affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking to access exclusive perks and resources. As of 2025, AARP has updated its membership pricing structure for the first time in 15 years. Let’s break down the current costs and options for joining AARP.
| Membership Type | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard 1-Year Membership | $20 |
| 1-Year with Auto-Renewal | $15 (first year) |
| 3-Year Membership | $55 ($18.33/year) |
| 5-Year Membership | $79 ($15.80/year) |
The standard yearly price for AARP membership is now $20. However, AARP offers several ways to reduce costs and maximize value. For those who prefer convenience, signing up for automatic renewal allows you to pay just $15 for the first year, which is a 25% discount off the standard membership price. After the first year, the auto-renewal price increases to $20 annually.
For individuals looking to commit long-term and save even more, AARP provides multi-year membership options. A three-year membership subscription costs $55, which breaks down to about $18.33 per year, offering a 10% discount compared to the annual rate. The best value comes with the five-year membership subscription, priced at $79, or roughly $15.80 per year, providing a substantial 21% savings over the annual rate for all five years.
Understanding AARP Membership Benefits
When considering the cost of joining AARP, it’s essential to understand the value you’re receiving in return. AARP membership unlocks a vast array of benefits that can potentially save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually. These benefits span various categories, including health and wellness, travel, entertainment, and financial services.
Health and Wellness Benefits
One of the most significant areas where AARP members can find value is in health-related discounts and services. Members gain access to:
- Dental insurance plans administered by Delta Dental Insurance Company
- Hearing aid discounts of up to 20% through AARP Hearing Solutions
- Prescription discounts at over 66,000 pharmacies nationwide
- Vision care savings on glasses and contact lenses
- Fitness center discounts and access to workout videos
These health-related benefits alone can often offset the cost of membership, especially for those who require regular medical care or prescriptions.
Travel and Entertainment Discounts
AARP members can enjoy substantial savings on travel and leisure activities:
- Hotel discounts of up to 10% at major chains like Hilton
- Car rental savings with companies such as Avis and Budget
- Cruise discounts and exclusive offers
- Restaurant discounts at participating locations
- Movie ticket savings at select theater chains
For frequent travelers or those who enjoy dining out and entertainment, these discounts can quickly add up to significant savings throughout the year.
Maximizing Your AARP Membership Value
To get the most out of your AARP membership and ensure it’s worth the cost, consider the following strategies:
1. Review all available benefits: Take time to explore the full range of discounts and services offered through AARP’s website or mobile app.
2. Use the AARP Travel Center: Book trips through AARP’s travel portal to access exclusive deals and earn rewards points.
3. Take advantage of financial services: AARP offers various insurance options and financial planning resources that could save you money in the long run.
4. Participate in local events: Many AARP chapters host free or low-cost events and activities for members.
5. Read AARP publications: Your membership includes subscriptions to AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin, which provide valuable information and additional money-saving tips.
By actively using these benefits, many members find that their AARP membership pays for itself many times over throughout the year.
Additional Considerations When Joining AARP
While the cost of joining AARP is relatively low, there are a few additional factors to keep in mind:
- Free secondary membership: AARP allows you to add one additional adult household member to your membership at no extra cost.
- Automatic renewal: If you opt for auto-renewal, remember that your membership will automatically renew at the current rate unless you cancel.
- Age requirements: Although anyone 18 or older can join, some benefits may be restricted to members 50 and older.
- Cancellation policy: You can cancel your membership at any time and receive a prorated refund for any unused portion of your dues.
It’s also worth noting that AARP is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that advocates for issues affecting older Americans. Your membership dues support these advocacy efforts in addition to providing you with personal benefits.
FAQs About AARP Membership Costs
- Can I get a discount on AARP membership?
Yes, you can save by choosing auto-renewal or multi-year memberships. - Is AARP membership tax deductible?
Generally, AARP membership dues are not tax deductible as a charitable contribution. - How often does AARP increase its membership fees?
AARP rarely increases fees; the 2025 increase is the first in 15 years. - Can I pay for AARP membership monthly?
No, AARP only offers annual or multi-year membership payment options. - Is there a lifetime membership option for AARP?
AARP no longer offers lifetime memberships; the longest term available is 5 years.
In conclusion, the cost to join AARP ranges from $15 to $20 per year, depending on the membership option you choose. While this may seem like a small expense, the potential savings and benefits available to members can far outweigh the initial cost. Whether you’re looking for health-related discounts, travel savings, or access to valuable resources and advocacy, AARP membership offers a compelling value proposition for adults of all ages, particularly those 50 and older.
By carefully considering your lifestyle and needs, you can determine if the cost of AARP membership aligns with the potential benefits you’ll receive. Many members find that by taking full advantage of the discounts and services offered, they can recoup their membership fees many times over throughout the year. As with any membership program, the key to maximizing value is to actively engage with the benefits provided and incorporate them into your daily life.
Remember, AARP’s mission extends beyond just providing member discounts. Your membership also supports advocacy efforts for issues affecting older Americans, such as Social Security, Medicare, and age discrimination. This broader impact can be an additional factor to consider when evaluating the cost and value of joining AARP.
Ultimately, whether the cost to join AARP is worth it for you will depend on your individual circumstances and how well you utilize the available benefits. For many, the combination of tangible savings, access to resources, and support for important causes makes AARP membership a worthwhile investment at any age.