Beat the Budget Heat: 3 Easy Ways to Save This Month
July brings soaring temperatures and major demands on your wallet. As summer utility rates and seasonal expenses climb, use these three smart strategies to protect your budget.
- Optimize Your Thermostat
With summer electric bills projected to average nearly $800 per household, stop paying for air conditioning you don’t need. The Department of Energy suggests setting your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees warmer for eight hours a day—like when you’re at work—to slash your annual cooling costs by up to 10%.
- Freeze Unused Memberships
If your July calendar is packed with vacations, beach trips, and outdoor activities, you are likely wasting money on indoor services. Check if your gym, yoga studio, or kids’ recreation centers allow you to temporarily pause your membership. Freezing these accounts for a month or two can easily keep $50 to $100 in your pocket.
3. Swap Pricey Outings for Free Community Events
Keeping kids entertained all month doesn’t have to break the bank. Instead of expensive amusement parks or movie theaters, tap into free local programming. Check your public library or city parks department for free summer reading programs, outdoor movie nights, splash pads, and community youth workshops.
- Plan Ahead for School Shopping
Back-to-school shopping starts earlier every year, and rising prices means every dollar counts. Before purchasing new supplies, audit your closets, drawers, and old backpacks for forgotten items you can reuse. Additionally, plan ahead to take advantage of sales discounts and no sales tax on Texas Tax-Free Weekend August 7-9 this year.
By taking a few intentional steps this July, you can successfully cool down your household spending without sacrificing summer fun.
