Best Budgeting Apps of 2025 Compared

With so many personal finance tools out there, choosing the right budgeting app can be overwhelming. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned saver, the right app can simplify your finances, reduce stress, and help you reach your goals faster.

We’ve tested and compared the top budgeting apps of 2025 — based on features, ease of use, integrations, cost, and more — so you can choose what fits your style and goals.

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What to Look for in a Budgeting App

Before diving into the list, here’s what to consider when evaluating budgeting tools:

• Ease of use: Does the interface make tracking spending easy and intuitive?
• Automation: Can it link to your bank accounts and categorize expenses automatically?
• Customization: Can you create custom categories and budgets?
• Goal tracking: Does it help you save for specific goals?
• Reports and insights: Does it show trends or breakdowns over time?
• Cost: Is there a free version or trial? Are premium features worth the cost?

Now, let’s look at the top apps.

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1. YNAB (You Need A Budget)

Best for: People who want full control over their budget

• Platform: iOS, Android, Web
• Price: $14.99/month or $99/year (34-day free trial)
• Pros:
  • Zero-based budgeting approach
  • Educational resources and workshops
  • Excellent goal-setting tools
• Cons:
  • Learning curve for beginners
  • No automatic category suggestions

Why we like it: YNAB’s method helps you plan for every dollar and build awareness. If you want to get intentional with your spending, this app is powerful.

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2. Rocket Money (formerly Truebill)

Best for: Tracking subscriptions and cutting waste

• Platform: iOS, Android
• Price: Free with optional premium ($3–$12/month)
• Pros:
  • Finds and cancels unwanted subscriptions
  • Negotiates bills on your behalf
  • Great for passive budgeters
• Cons:
  • Limited budgeting tools compared to others
  • Some premium features are pay-what-you-want

Why we like it: It’s ideal for people who want to save money without spending much time managing a budget.

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3. Monarch Money

Best for: Couples or households managing finances together

• Platform: iOS, Android, Web
• Price: $14.99/month or $99/year
• Pros:
  • Shared access with spouse or partner
  • Detailed net worth and goal tracking
  • Beautiful, modern design
• Cons:
  • Limited bill tracking features
  • Pricier than some alternatives

Why we like it: Monarch feels like a premium experience and is great for long-term planning, especially with partners.

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4. PocketGuard

Best for: Simple, automatic budgeting

• Platform: iOS, Android
• Price: Free; PocketGuard Plus starts at $7.99/month
• Pros:
  • “In My Pocket” feature shows what’s safe to spend
  • Connects to banks and cards easily
  • Basic budgeting that’s fast and clear
• Cons:
  • Free version is limited
  • Not ideal for complex budgets

Why we like it: For people who want quick answers — “Can I afford this?” — PocketGuard makes it easy.

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5. Goodbudget

Best for: Envelope-style budgeting fans

• Platform: iOS, Android, Web
• Price: Free; Plus plan $8/month or $70/year
• Pros:
  • Manual transaction entry encourages mindfulness
  • Ideal for shared budgets
  • Great for people avoiding bank syncing
• Cons:
  • No automatic transaction importing
  • Lacks detailed reports

Why we like it: Goodbudget brings classic envelope budgeting to the digital age with simplicity and intention.

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6. EveryDollar

Best for: Dave Ramsey fans and zero-based budgeting

• Platform: iOS, Android, Web
• Price: Free basic; $17.99/month or $79.99/year for Premium
• Pros:
  • Designed around zero-based budgeting
  • Easy drag-and-drop budgeting tool
  • Clean interface
• Cons:
  • Premium version required for bank sync
  • Minimal reports in the free version

Why we like it: It’s perfect if you follow Dave Ramsey’s Baby Steps and want a tool that aligns.

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Quick Comparison Table

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Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all budgeting app — the best tool is the one you’ll actually use.

• Want full control and planning power? Try YNAB or Monarch.
• Prefer something more passive? Rocket Money or PocketGuard might fit better.
• Like the envelope method or simplicity? Go with Goodbudget or EveryDollar.

Take advantage of free trials and test drive a couple options before committing. A budgeting app that aligns with your mindset can make saving feel natural instead of stressful.

Pro tip: Pair your app with a high-yield savings account and automated transfers for maximum impact.