Best Budgeting Apps in 2026 — Free and Paid Options

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Best Budgeting Apps in 2026 — Free and Paid Options

By WealthChecker Team  |  Budgeting  |  5 min read

With Mint shutting down, millions of Americans are looking for a new budgeting app. Here are the best options in 2025!

Top Budgeting Apps Compared

AppCostBest ForApproach
YNAB$14.99/monthSerious budgetersZero-based budgeting
Monarch Money$14.99/monthCouplesComprehensive
Copilot$13/monthiPhone usersBeautiful UI
EmpowerFreeInvestment trackingNet worth focused
Google SheetsFreeDIY control freaksManual, custom

Which Should You Choose?

YNAB: Gold standard. Users average $600 saved in first 2 months. Worth the cost if you'll use it!

Monarch Money: Best Mint replacement. Great couples features, investment tracking.

Empower (Free): Best free option for net worth and investment tracking.

The Truth: Best budgeting app = one you'll open every week. A simple spreadsheet you review regularly beats a sophisticated app you ignore. Start simple!

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