Money-Saving Tips from a Woman Who Spends $124 on Groceries Monthly

Carly DeFelice is a role model when it comes to budgeting and saving, with a track record that outshines most. Between her 2008 college graduation and her 26th birthday, she managed to pay off $35,000 in debt and accumulate more than $100,000 in investments. Fast forward to today, at 38 years old, she has grown her cash and investment assets to around $400,000, all while earning an annual salary of just $58,000.

Despite her economic success, DeFelice continues to be frugal in her spending habits. For example, in September, she only spent $123.65 on groceries, demonstrating her strategic approach to budgeting. Her thrifty ways involve careful planning and the use of a grocery list, cutting costs by thousands compared to the average person’s spending. Beyond groceries, DeFelice’s ability to stick to her budget also applies to her social life, where she is proactive in making plans and maximizing experiences with minimal spending.

DeFelice follows a weekly discretionary budget of $120, which covers necessities like groceries and gas, as well as social activities. Her meticulous planning and avoidance of impulse purchases present her as a savvy spender. By practicing intentionality in her social life and budgeting, DeFelice proves that it is possible to maintain an active social life while saving money.

Her innovative and disciplined approach to budgeting and saving makes DeFelice an inspiration for many, showing that personal finance management does not have to compromise one’s social life.