The underconsumption life is not just for people on a budget. It is how some millionaires stay rich. From secondhand cars to freezer meals and thrift store outfits, high-net-worth individuals are rejecting the pressure to spend just because they can.

In fact, many of them are actively doing the opposite. While some folks splurge on dinner delivery, designer fits, and new SUVs, these wealthy outliers focus on keeping their costs low and their savings high.

Turns out that the underconsumption life might be the biggest flex of all.

Why Drive a New Car When the Old One Still Runs?

Take Shang Saavedra. She and her husband are millionaires, yet they drive a 16-year-old car and shop at Aldi. And not the fresh produce aisle—they go straight for the frozen section. Cheaper, lasts longer, less waste.

Their house? Rented. Their kids? Wearing hand-me-downs and playing with toys picked up from Facebook Marketplace. Saavedra knows where to spend and where not to. Education and real estate? Yes. Trendy items that lose value fast? Nope.

This mindset didn’t start with her paycheck. It came from growing up with less and learning to stretch every dollar. Now, with millions in assets, she is not about to change that mindset just to keep up with someone else’s Instagram.

Cooking in Bulk Saves More Than Money

Annie Cole is another one living the underconsumption life. Her household expenses? Less than $4,000 a month. Even though she earns six figures and has over a million in assets. She could easily afford a newer car or weekly dinners out. Instead, she batch cooks, cuts her own hair, and only shops for clothes at Goodwill - three times a year, max.

XAN / Self-made millionaire Annie Cole hasn’t bought new clothes in over a year, and when she did, it was with a gift card.

Cole’s travel plans? Funded by credit card points. Her vacations are simple: hiking, swimming, and recharging. No five-star resorts. No luxury dining. Just peace and fresh air.

This Dentist Eats Out Once a Month

Dr. Robert Chin is a dentist in Las Vegas. He and his partner, Jessica, own a dental practice and bring in healthy six-figure incomes. Still, they share a car, pack lunches, and keep their shopping minimal.

Chin now eats out maybe twice a month, down from a few times a week. He shops at Costco, looking to dodge the worst of inflation. And when he does buy clothes, they need to last. Like Patagonia jackets with lifetime guarantees.

Even though they own a condo, the couple rents their current home. Why? Flexibility. They are waiting for the right time to buy again. No rush. No panic buying. Just smart moves with long-term payoffs.

Income & Lifestyle Balance is Key

The underconsumption life is about choosing control over convenience. These millionaires are not cheap. They are strategic and realistic. They are not afraid to spend when it matters. They just don’t feel the need to spend to prove anything.

Elle / Pexels / Real millionaires do not sit around dreaming of “someday.” they build it, quietly and efficiently.

They know what most people forget: wealth grows in the space between your income and your lifestyle. The smaller that gap, the faster the growth. These folks have widened that space on purpose.

Rich Doesn’t Have to Look Rich!

The underconsumption life went viral on TikTok for a reason. People are tired of endless hauls and short-term dopamine hits. They want freedom. Peace. A sense of control.

That is exactly what this lifestyle offers. No-buy challenges, decluttering, and avoiding unnecessary upgrades are not just minimalist fads. They are financial power moves.

And yes, these millionaires could buy more. But they are not playing the same game. They don’t want more stuff - they want more options. More security. More time.