Tariffs are quietly reshaping the cost of living in America, and retirees may be feeling the financial strain more than most. With rising prices on everyday goods and services, retirees must reassess their spending habits and make more informed choices to protect their retirement income and ensure it lasts throughout their golden years.
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Robin Valadares, founder of the Financially Fulfilled Physio, put it this way: “Think of tariffs as a stealth tax on imports. Who gets hit hardest? Our seniors.” He cited data from the National Association of Federal Retirees showing that 1 in 4 seniors are already struggling with rising prices. New tariffs are only adding to the pressure.
To help retirees navigate this high-tariff economy, Valadares recommends cutting back on three key spending categories.
1. Electronics and Appliances
While retirement may finally seem like the time to enjoy the latest “gizmos,” Valadares said that many of these, especially the imported ones, “are getting slapped with tariffs.”
From TV consoles to a new dishwasher or fancy coffeemaker, tariffs are driving up the ways retirees enjoy their downtime. “So, that new gadget to FaceTime the grandkids? Pricier.”
He said it’s time to ditch “buying the absolute newest model just because it’s shiny” and instead look into refurbished or quality used items. Better yet, if something’s broken, before you toss it, see if a local shop can fix it, which is “often way cheaper than a new one.”
Also, consider these money-saving tips:
- Refurbished or gently used electronics
- Repairing broken items locally
- Waiting for off-season sales or bundle deals
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2. Imported Clothing and Shoes
Retirees might not even realize that “a huge chunk of our wardrobe comes from elsewhere,” Valadares said. While he’s not suggesting that anybody stop buying clothes altogether, things like high-end imported wear, “fast fashion” that falls apart quickly, athletic gear and shoes and big some brands and styles may simply not be affordable anymore.
“An April 2025 analysis from the Yale Budget Lab even suggested that all 2025 tariffs could bump apparel prices up by a whopping 17%,” he pointed out. For retirees looking to come under budget even in these tight economic times, try the following:
- Shop at thrift stores and consignment shops
- Focus on durable, timeless pieces
- Avoid impulse buys and trendy items that wear out quickly
3. Certain Groceries and Pantry Basics
Most Americans, retired or not, have noticed that groceries are more expensive. While Valadares isn’t saying retirees should skip meals, it does make sense to avoid imported foods, some natural foods, pantry staples like olive oil and rice and processed goods that are susceptible to tariffs. Even imported fruits and vegetables may not be worth buying in the near term.
By being strategic with grocery shopping, retirees can stretch their food budgets further without sacrificing nutrition. Turn your grocery spending habits into saving habits with the following money moves:
- Buying local and seasonal produce
- Avoiding imported fruits and vegetables
- Stocking up on non-perishable items during sales
Tips for Free Fun and Programs
Retirees may also find their budgets squeezed more tightly for entertainment, from concerts to dining out. Still, there are always free or low-cost ideas to take advantage of, Valadares said, from community centers with senior programs to nature’s bounty, such as parks and hiking trails.
Additionally, he pointed out, “Your library is a treasure trove — not just books, but free movies, e-books, online courses and even passes to local attractions.”
Retirees don’t have to stop enjoying their retirement; by cutting back in key ways, you can make the most of your leisure years.
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 3 Things Retirees Should Stop Buying To Save Money Amid Tariffs
