16 Celebs Who Embrace Living Below Their Means

In a world where celebrities often flaunt their luxurious lifestyles, it’s refreshing to discover a group of stars who choose to live below their means. Their financial savvy is as notable as their talents. Here’s a look at 16 celebrities who have shared their stories about frugality.

 

Keke Palmer, who took on the financial responsibility for her family at just 12, faced bankruptcy at 18. Determined to secure her future, she consciously decided to live within her means. At a financial summit, she revealed, “If I have $10,000 in the bank, my housing cost is just $500 a month. Sure, I could spend more, but I want to invest in my business instead of splurging on luxury brands.”

 

Zach Galifianakis echoed this sentiment during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, revealing he drove the same ’98 Subaru Outback for two decades, prioritizing practicality over extravagance.

 

Kieran Culkin also embraced simplicity, living in a one-bedroom apartment for nearly 20 years until his recent success with the show Succession prompted a move. He described his newfound income as “the first time in my 30-something-year career” that he’s felt financially rewarded.

 

Sarah Michelle Gellar is another advocate for saving, sharing how she actively uses coupons to save money. At a holiday shopping spree, she stood her ground against a critic by saying, “Why should I pay more?”

 

Eminem candidly expressed his investment philosophy with the New York Times, stressing the importance of saving, especially since he quit drugs in 2008. “I treat every dollar like it could be my last,” he stated.

 

Tyra Banks’s financial discipline came from her upbringing, as she learned to value saving from her mother. “While other models partied and indulged, I was smart about my money and bought my first house at 20,” she said.

 

Jay Leno also attributed his financial success to a strategy of separating income. “I always made sure to bank one income while living off another,” he explained, never touching his earnings from The Tonight Show.

 

Keira Knightley shared her own financial management style by setting an annual salary of around $50,000 for herself, despite her substantial earnings. This allows her to enjoy her wealth without alienating herself from friends who live simpler lives.

 

Kristen Bell champions frugality too, as evidenced by her enthusiasm for coupons, a trait she openly discussed on Conan.

 

Chow Yun-fat’s lifestyle is particularly remarkable, as he reportedly lives on about $100 a month, relying on public transportation and discount shopping, all while planning to donate most of his wealth to charity.

 

In a recent TikTok video, Julia Fox provided a glimpse into her modest apartment despite speculation about her wealth. “I don’t need a huge space; this place is meaningful to me,” she shared.

 

Hilary Swank also recognizes the value of saving, addressing the stigma behind using coupons on Live! with Regis and Kelly, asserting there’s nothing wrong with being budget-conscious.

 

Ashley Greene noted that her experience from the Twilight franchise taught her to value frugality, emphasizing the importance of saving for times when acting jobs are scarce.

 

Vincent Kartheiser took frugality to another level, famously living car-free and even going to the neighbors to use the toilet. “I realized I didn’t want all this stuff around me,” he expressed, showcasing his radical approach to living simply.

 

Sarah Jessica Parker described her shopping habits as practical, stating she dresses based on what she has while appreciating the ability to borrow beautiful things. Her humble beginnings heavily influenced her financial mindset.

 

Lastly, Ed Begley Jr. carries on the lessons learned from his father, who was a factory worker. He often reflects on the complications that come with wealth, leading him to prioritize simplicity and environmental consciousness, using public transport even during major events like the Oscars.

 

These celebrities showcase that living a modest lifestyle is not only achievable but can also lead to greater financial security and peace of mind. What’s the most frugal act you’ve heard of a celebrity doing? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.