16 Ways Families Budgeted on One Income in the ’60s (It Wasn’t Easy)

Living on one income was common in the 1960s, but it wasn't easy. Families had to be frugal and make do with less, frequently relying on DIY, secondhand items, and strong community ties.

Tricia Quitales
April 17, 2025
4 min read

16 Ways Families Budgeted on One Income in the ’60s (It Wasn’t Easy) — Pavel Danilyuk n Pexels

This article explores how families in the 1960s managed to survive on a single income, which was a common reality for many at the time. With creative strategies and strict budgeting, households were able to stretch every dollar even without modern conveniences. These 16 methods demonstrate the strength, resourcefulness, and sacrifices required to keep families running smoothly.

1. Meal Planning Was a Must

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Families carefully planned meals for the whole week to avoid waste and save money. Grocery trips were limited, and every ingredient was stretched as far as it could go. Leftovers were never thrown away—they became lunch or dinner the next day.

2. One Car Per Family

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Most families shared one vehicle, with the working parent using it for commuting. The other stayed home, often walking or using public transit if needed. This helped avoid the cost of maintaining and fueling a second car.

3. Home-Cooked Meals Only

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Eating out was rare and usually reserved for special occasions. Moms (or grandmas) cooked every meal from scratch using basic, affordable ingredients. Convenience foods were either too expensive or not widely available.

4. Hand-Me-Down Clothes

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Clothing was passed down from older siblings or cousins to younger ones. Sewing and mending were common skills to extend the life of clothes. Store-bought outfits were only bought for special events or when absolutely needed.

5. Homemade Entertainment

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Families found low-cost ways to entertain themselves, like board games, puzzles, and radio shows. Kids played outside with neighborhood friends instead of using gadgets or toys. Television, if available, offered just a few channels and was used sparingly.

6. Saving Was Non-Negotiable

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Even on tight budgets, parents tried to put a little money away for emergencies. Piggy banks, saving stamps, or envelopes marked for specific needs were popular methods. Planning ahead was a survival strategy, not just a good habit.

7. Gardening for Food

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Many families grew vegetables in their backyards to supplement groceries. It reduced the need to buy fresh produce and taught kids about work and patience. Canning and preserving food from the garden were normal seasonal activities.

8. Home Haircuts

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Trips to the barber or salon were seen as a luxury. Parents learned to cut hair at home with clippers or scissors, even for the whole family. Mistakes were forgiven, and neatness mattered more than style.

9. No Credit Cards

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Most families paid in cash or by check—borrowing was rare and often avoided. Layaway plans were popular for big purchases, allowing payments over time without interest. Living within one’s means was a point of pride.

10. DIY Repairs

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If something broke, the first step was to fix it yourself. Dads often handled plumbing, electrical, or car issues with basic tools and a how-to book. Calling a repairman was a last resort due to the cost.

11. Simple Vacations

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Trips were often road-based, like camping or visiting relatives. Air travel was too expensive for most families on one income, and vacations were more about bonding than spending money.

12. Handmade Gifts

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Store-bought gifts were limited, especially during holidays. Kids made cards and crafts, while adults sewed, knitted, or baked for others. The thought and effort behind gifts mattered more than their cost.

13. Used Instead of New

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Secondhand stores, yard sales, and hand-me-downs were common ways to get what was needed. Families weren’t ashamed to reuse items or make do with older versions. Being resourceful was a way of life, not just a trend.

14. Energy Saving Habits

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Turning off lights when leaving a room and limiting heating or cooling saved money. Clothes were often dried on lines instead of in machines. These habits were taught to kids early and stuck with them.

15. Shared Bedrooms

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Multiple children often shared a bedroom to save on space and utility costs. Bunk beds and shared dressers were normal, and privacy was a luxury. This helped keep house sizes and expenses smaller.

16. Mom Managed the Money

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The non-working parent, usually the mom, handled the family budget. She kept detailed notes on expenses, coupons, and savings goals. It was like running a small business, just for the home.