How to Reduce Dining Expenses and Save Big in 2024

Find Extra Savings by Cooking at Home

Many Americans are unaware of how much they spend on dining out, which can significantly impact their budget. A new survey by Empower reveals that Americans eat out for 1 out of every 5 meals, highlighting the need to reassess meal planning for better financial control.

Americans Dine out Frequently

• Millennials dine out 21% of the time
• Gen Zers dine out 26% of the time

Convenience and speed, schedule accommodation, and treating oneself are some of the top reasons why Americans opt for restaurants over home-cooked meals.

Save Money: Cook at Home

Cooking at home can help you save significantly as groceries and home-cooked meals are generally cheaper than dining out. By planning your meals and leveraging bulk deals at stores or cash back apps, you can effectively reduce your food expenses.

Average monthly food budgets highlight the savings potential of cooking at home versus eating out, especially in times of rising inflation in food prices.

Re-evaluate Your Food Spending

If you're determined to save money, consider joining the 29% of Americans who are opting to dine out less. By prioritizing cooking at home, you can gain better control over your finances and allocate resources more efficiently.

Key Takeaway: Embrace Home Cooking for Financial Freedom

While dining out offers convenience, prioritizing home-cooked meals can lead to substantial savings, empowering you to optimize your budget and achieve financial stability in 2024.