50 Things Retirees Get Cheaper Than Everyone Else

Getting older comes with some sweet perks, especially when saving money. From entertainment to travel to everyday essentials, being a retiree opens up a world of discounts and special deals. Let’s look at 50 ways you can stretch your retirement dollars further with age-specific discounts and programs.

Travel and Vacation Packages

Many travel companies offer special rates for seniors on flights, cruises, and tour packages. You can often save 10-15% on your bookings by mentioning your age. These discounts typically apply to travelers aged 65 and up, though some companies start at age 60.

Public Transportation

Most cities provide reduced fares for seniors on buses, trains, and subway systems. These discounts can cut your transportation costs by up to 50% or more. Many transit systems also offer special senior passes for unlimited rides at a fraction of the regular price.

National and State Park Passes

The National Park Service offers a lifetime Senior Pass for just $80 to those 62 and older. This pass gives you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and forests. Many state parks also offer their own senior discount programs.

Movie Tickets

Most major theater chains offer special matinee pricing for seniors, usually 10-20% off regular admission. Some theaters even have dedicated “Senior Days” with extra discounts and perks like free popcorn. Depending on the theater, these deals typically kick in at age 60 or 65.

Dining Out

Restaurants often provide senior discounts, particularly during off-peak hours. Early-bird specials can save you 15-25% on your meal. Many chain restaurants offer senior menus with smaller portions at lower prices.

Grocery Store Discounts

Many grocery chains set aside specific days for senior savings. These discount days usually offer 5-10% off your entire purchase. Some stores also provide special senior rewards programs with extra savings throughout the month.

Pharmacy Discounts

Medicare Part D plans and pharmacy discount programs can significantly reduce prescription costs for seniors. Many drugstore chains offer senior reward programs with additional savings on over-the-counter medications and other health items.

Gym Memberships

Programs like SilverSneakers provide eligible seniors free gym access through their Medicare Advantage plans. Many fitness centers also offer reduced-rate senior memberships that include access to specialized classes and equipment.

Museum and Attraction Admission

Cultural institutions frequently offer senior rates that can save you 20% or more on entry fees. Some museums even have free admission days specifically for seniors. These discounts often extend to zoos, aquariums, and other attractions.

Hotel Stays

Most hotel chains offer senior discounts of 10-15% off standard rates. Some offer even better deals during off-peak seasons. AARP members can access additional hotel savings through their travel program.

Cell Phone Plans

Carriers have created special plans tailored to seniors’ needs and budgets. These plans often include features like large-print billing and simplified phones and cost less than standard plans.

Insurance Premiums

Many insurers reduce rates for retired drivers who are on the road less frequently. Senior drivers who take defensive driving courses designed for older adults can often qualify for additional discounts.

Education and Classes

Many colleges and universities let seniors audit classes for free or at reduced rates. Community centers frequently offer low-cost or free classes designed specifically for older adults.

Haircuts and Salon Services

Look for senior discount days at local salons and barber shops. These special days usually offer 10-20% off services, with some places providing additional perks like free coffee or priority booking.

Utility Bills

Energy companies often offer assistance programs and reduced rates for seniors. These programs can help lower monthly bills and support energy-efficient upgrades.

Car Rentals

Major rental companies offer senior discounts that can save you 10-25% on your rental. These discounts usually start at age 50 and increase with age.

Concerts and Theater Tickets

Many performing arts venues offer senior rates on tickets. These discounts typically range from 10% to 20% off regular prices and may include special seating options.

Tax Preparation Services

Seniors can access free tax preparation help through programs like AARP Tax-Aide. These services can save you hundreds of dollars while ensuring your taxes are done correctly.

Amusement Parks

Theme parks often provide senior rates on admission tickets and season passes. These discounts can save you 10-20% off regular admission prices.

Sporting Events

Many sports teams offer reduced ticket prices for seniors. These discounts work especially well for weekday games and can save you 10-30% off regular ticket prices.

Books and Media

Libraries often waive late fees for seniors and provide free access to digital resources. Some bookstores offer senior discount days with 10-15% off purchases.

Banking Services

Many banks waive monthly fees and minimum balance requirements for seniors. Some even offer free checks and safety deposit boxes to older customers.

Home Maintenance Services

Look for senior discounts on regular maintenance tasks like plumbing repairs or HVAC service. Many companies offer 10-15% off their standard rates for older customers.

Professional Services

Financial planners, attorneys, and other professionals often provide reduced rates or free consultations for seniors. These services can help you manage your retirement more effectively.

Clothing and Retail

Many department stores have senior discount days, during which customers can receive 10-15% off purchases. These savings often combine with other promotions to offer even better deals.

Heating and Cooling Assistance

Programs like LIHEAP help seniors manage their energy costs and can provide substantial assistance during extreme weather months.

Hobbies and Crafts

Craft stores typically offer senior discounts of 10-15% on regular-priced items. Many hobby groups also provide reduced membership rates for older adults.

Public Golf Courses

Municipal golf courses often offer senior rates of 20-30% on green fees. Some courses also offer special senior league memberships.

Subscription Services

Streaming platforms and other subscription services may offer senior discounts. These deals can help you save on entertainment while staying connected.

Pet Services

Many veterinarians and pet groomers provide senior discounts on routine services. These savings can help make pet ownership more affordable in retirement.

RV Parks and Campgrounds

Senior travelers can save on long-term stays at RV parks and campgrounds. Many locations offer 10-20% discounts for extended visits.

Medical Devices and Supplies

Medicare and senior discount programs can help reduce the costs on medical equipment. These savings apply to everything from hearing aids to mobility devices.

Massages and Spa Treatments

Wellness centers often provide senior rates on therapeutic services. These discounts typically range from 10-20% off regular prices.

Fitness and Yoga Classes

Many fitness studios offer reduced rates for senior-specific classes. These programs are tailored to older adults while costing less than standard classes.

Home Security Systems

Security companies frequently provide senior discounts on monitoring services. These deals can include reduced installation fees and monthly monitoring costs.

Dental Care

Dental schools and clinics often provide reduced-cost care for seniors. Some dentists also offer senior discount programs for routine care.

Hearing Tests

Many audiologists provide free hearing screenings for seniors. These services can help you monitor your hearing health without extra cost.

Eyeglasses and Vision Care

Vision centers typically offer senior discounts on exams and eyewear. AARP members can access additional savings from participating providers.

Roadside Assistance

Services like AAA offer reduced membership rates for seniors. These programs can save you money and give you peace of mind while you’re on the road.

Event and Club Memberships

Senior-specific clubs and organizations often charge lower membership fees. These groups provide social opportunities while being budget-friendly.

Flowers and Plants

Garden centers frequently offer senior discount days with 10-15% off plants and supplies. These savings help make gardening more affordable.

House Cleaning Services

Many cleaning companies provide senior discounts or special packages. These deals can make regular housekeeping services more budget-friendly.

Car Washes and Detailing

Look for senior discounts at local car washes, which usually range from 10% to 20% off. Some places offer special senior days with extra savings.

Home Repair Grants

Government programs help seniors with essential home repairs and modifications. These grants can cover significant expenses while making homes safer.

Furniture and Appliances

Many retailers offer senior discounts on home furnishings and appliances. These savings often combine with other promotions for better deals.

Fitness Equipment

Sports stores and fitness retailers may provide senior discounts on home exercise equipment. These savings help make staying active more affordable.

Technology Training

Many libraries and community centers offer free tech classes for seniors. These programs help you stay connected without straining your budget.

Local Community Events

Senior discounts for local festivals and events can save you 10-20% on admission. Some events even offer free entry for older adults.

Magazine and Newspaper Subscriptions

Publications often provide reduced subscription rates for seniors. These discounts apply to both print and digital subscriptions.

Lawn Care Services

Many landscaping companies offer senior discounts on regular maintenance. These savings can make professional lawn care more affordable year-round.

Final Thoughts on Things Retirees Get Cheaper

Making the most of senior discounts can lead to significant savings over time. Always keep your ID handy, and don’t be shy about asking if a senior discount is available. Many places offer them but don’t prominently advertise them. To maximize your savings potential, stay informed about new discount programs through organizations like AARP and your local senior center.