New data suggests GLP-1 medications may also change how people spend their money.
Sunlight.com surveyed 1,200 GLP-1 users in September to learn about their spending habits since starting the drug. Many save each month, even after factoring in the cost of the medication.
Key Findings:
- GLP-1 users spend $218 less on groceries, fast food, snacks, dining out, and diet programs.
- The average GLP-1 user surveyed saves $42 per month compared to their pre-GLP-1 spending, including the cost of the drug.
- One in three users say anticipated cost savings were part of their decision to start GLP-1. Gen Z was more likely to state cost savings as a reason for starting a GLP-1.
The Average GLP-1 User Saves $500 Annually
The average out-of-pocket cost for GLP-1 drugs among respondents is $176 per month. The average monthly personal savings on food, restaurants, snacks, and fitness is $218 based on reported behavior changes. That means most respondents save more than they spend on the drug, with a net savings of about $42 each month. Over a year, that adds up to more than $500 in overall savings while on GLP-1.
Where GLP-1 Users Are Cutting Costs
Survey results show that GLP-1 users have reduced spending across several categories of food and wellness. The changes reflect personal spending only, not household or family expenses.
Grocery Spending
Since starting GLP-1, the average respondent’s personal grocery bill decreased from $351 to $282 monthly, a 20% reduction. That’s nearly $69 in monthly savings.
Snacks, Junk Food, and Fast Food
Respondent spending on fast food, junk food, and snacks dropped from $183 to $106 monthly, a 42% decrease and savings of $77 monthly.
Restaurants and Bars
Restaurant and bar spending fell from $183 to $127 monthly, a 31% reduction. That amounts to $56 in savings each month.
Diet Programs
Spending on diet programs declined from $95 to $78 per month, a 17% decrease and $16 in savings.
Gym Memberships and Fitness Programs
Fitness spending remained nearly unchanged, dropping slightly from $72 to $71 per month — a 0.5% decline.
“It’s certainly the new GLP-1 economy, as we call it,” says Dr. Angela Tran. “On average, GLP-1s can lead to 15% or more body weight reduction, and for those who have lived with obesity for years, their lives will change dramatically.”
Tran says using GLP-1s can lead to less spending on food, with users eating smaller portions, cutting unnecessary snacking, finding fast food less appealing, and experiencing reduced cravings for high-sugar foods.
1 in 3 Say Anticipated Savings Drove Their GLP-1 Decision
Nearly half of respondents — 45% — say they anticipated saving money on expenses such as food, restaurants, or fitness before starting a GLP-1.
Among those who anticipated these types of savings, 42% say saving money was a primary reason for starting a GLP-1, and 32% say it was a secondary reason. Gen Z was more likely to say saving money was a primary (60%) or secondary (32%) reason for their use of the drug.
Methodology