Your expenses seem to grow every week. How are you and the family spending so much money and where is it all going? You are probably wasting money on luxuries that you deem necessities without knowing of such frivolousness. Sure, living in the city can cost a lot of money, but even then, there are tons of ways to save! Here are five practical ways to lower your family’s monthly budget.

1. Use public transportation

The train and bus exist for a reason. There is nothing wrong with using public transportation now and again to save on the cost of fuel and general car maintenance. Many families invest in bus passes that they use throughout the week. The car is usually reserved for weekend getaways.

2. Sell your old car

There is nothing beautiful about having a car that does not work taking up space in your driveway or garage. Selling your old car or truck can be more lucrative than keeping the automobile for sentimental reasons. There is much cash for cars dealers willing to take an immobile vehicle off your hands and may even offer free hauling services. Imagine a dealer paying you for a car that no longer works all while providing free towing. Selling your old or broken down vehicle is a great way to make money.

3. Unplug devices that you are not using

The electric bill for a family of four costs thousands every year. Hundreds can be saved, however, by merely unplugging devices you are not using. Such is especially true for heaters. It is an absolute waste of money to leave such product connected to a power source during summer months.

4. Lower the temperature of your home’s water heater

Did you know that the water heater consumes more than 10 percent of energy and costs a significant amount every month? You can save money on the family’s budget by simply lowering the temperature on this appliance and grappling with the reality of cold to warm water instead of burning hot liquid.

5. Ditch cable

There are so many ways to enjoy entertainment at home that cable television is no longer necessary. You may consider a cheaper monthly subscription such as Hulu or Netflix if you need a large selection of television series and films on-demand. Otherwise, it is a good idea to forgo TV altogether. The library offers entertainment, including DVDs and audiobooks, for free.

Having money in your bank account at the end of every month is possible. You need to institute practical means to save on your family’s monthly budget to start experiencing financial relief, though. Reducing energy and getting rid of luxuries perceived as common necessities is a great way to start down the path of eventual frugal living.