Managing money used to mean spreadsheets, notebooks, or just guessing what’s left in your bank account. Not anymore. In 2025, tech is making personal finance smarter, faster, and easier to control. Whether you’re living in the US or UK, these budgeting apps are helping people save more, spend wisely, and stress less about money.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the best budgeting tools you can start using today.
1. Emma (UK & US)
Best for: All-in-one money management
Emma connects to all your bank accounts and shows you exactly where your money is going. It tracks subscriptions, helps cut wasteful spending, and gives a clear snapshot of your financial health.
You can set budgets, create saving goals, and even track your crypto and investments—all in one app.
Available on iOS and Android. Free plan with premium upgrade.
2. You Need A Budget (YNAB) (US & UK)
Best for: People serious about tracking every dollar or pound
YNAB isn’t just an app—it’s a full budgeting method. It encourages you to give every dollar/pound a job, so you’re planning your spending before it happens. It’s perfect if you want structure and accountability.
There’s a learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, it changes how you think about money.
Free trial available, then paid subscription.
3. Plum (UK only)
Best for: Automated saving and investing
Plum uses AI to analyze your spending and automatically saves small amounts for you throughout the week. It also helps you invest with just a few taps and suggests ways to cut bills.
You don’t even have to think about saving—it handles it for you.
Free and paid plans. Available on iOS and Android.
4. Cleo (UK & US)
Best for: Fun, AI-powered budgeting
Cleo is like having a finance-savvy friend in your pocket. It uses humor and chat-style AI to help you track your spending, stick to budgets, and save more. You can even roast your own bad spending habits.
Cleo works through a chatbot interface and links to your bank accounts securely.
Free to use with optional paid features.
5. Monarch Money (US only)
Best for: Couples and families managing shared finances
Monarch lets you manage both individual and shared budgets. It’s great for couples or households looking to track joint spending, plan savings goals, and collaborate on financial plans.
The clean dashboard and customizable features make it stand out.
Free trial, then subscription model.
6. Snoop (UK only)
Best for: Finding ways to save more
Snoop scans your spending and looks for better deals on bills, subscriptions, and financial products. It’s like having a money-saving assistant watching your back 24/7.
It also helps you set up budgets and track spending across multiple accounts.
Free to use. Available on iOS and Android.
7. Rocket Money (formerly Truebill) (US only)
Best for: Canceling unwanted subscriptions
Rocket Money helps you find and cancel hidden subscriptions, negotiate lower bills, and manage your overall budget. It’s great if you’re trying to cut down on digital clutter and surprise charges.
You can also automate savings and track net worth.
Free plan available; premium features are optional.
Final Thoughts
Saving money isn’t just about cutting expenses—it’s about having the right tools to stay in control. Whether you’re in the UK or the US, these apps offer smart, tech-driven ways to manage your money better in 2025.
Choose one that fits your lifestyle and financial goals. Download it. Set it up. Let it work in the background while you focus on living—and saving.
