Everyone once rushed to make up for lost time. After the pandemic, there was a wave of revenge spending, with people splurging on travel, gadgets, and meals out.
Now, the mood has changed. Americans have turned to something else: revenge saving. This means channeling that same energy into saving money-fast and fiercely.
According to Investopedia, in May 2025, about 37% of Americans say they’ve started saving more. High earners (those making over $125,000) lead the way, with over 44% increasing their savings. Meanwhile, Gen Z is listening: nearly 59% of 18- to 25-year-olds say having emergency savings is now a top priority.
There’s real pressure behind this shift. The U.S. personal savings rate climbed from 4.1% in January to 4.9% in April-a clear sign of changing habits. MarketWatch reports that rising prices, trade tensions, and wobbly markets are pushing people to save more and spend less. Even households earning over $200,000 are cutting back on travel and luxuries.
Experts say this trend isn’t just bravado-it’s smart. A Kiplinger article describes revenge saving as a way to regain control-starting with clear goals, cutting small, hidden costs, trying short-term saving challenges, and automating funds into separate accounts. It’s not about deprivation-it’s about choice and clarity.
Why Revenge Saving Matters Now
- Economic unease: Inflation, tariffs, and slower hiring make people feel less secure.
- Longer unemployment: It takes longer to find work-so cash buffers matter more.
- Low confidence: CEO optimism has dropped, and the future feels less certain.
- Fading FOMO: The desire to keep up has faded. Instead, there’s more value in stability.
How to Start Revenge Saving-Simply and Smartly
- Set a clear “why” – e.g. emergency fund, travel, or home.
- Trim small leaks – cancel unused subscriptions or skip one takeout per week.
- Do a short challenge – try a “no-buy” month or delay nonessential buys by 24 hours.
- Automate your savings – even just 1% more of your paycheck helps. Increase it slowly over time.
- Use or open high-yield savings or CDs – even a small interest boost adds up.
- Track progress visibly – a chart or app can make saving feel rewarding, not restrictive.
Bottom line: Americans are done with reckless spending. In 2025, revenge saving is the new trend-and it’s more than a fad. It’s about building security, peace of mind, and a smart financial foundation through simple habits and intention.
