AARP's current membership size

AARP has approximately 38 million members as of recent counts, though the exact number changes throughout the year as people join and renew. This makes AARP one of the largest membership organizations in the United States. The organization does not publish real-time membership figures, so the most current number available is usually from their annual reports or press releases.

Membership is open to anyone age 50 and older, and the cost is $16 per year for a standard membership. Some people join for the discounts on travel, dining, and shopping; others join for access to AARP's publications, health information, or to support the organization's advocacy work on issues affecting older adults. The membership base has grown steadily over the past two decades as the U.S. population ages.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP has roughly 38 million members, making it one of the largest membership organizations in the country.
  • Membership is open to anyone 50 or older and costs $16 annually for a standard membership.
  • The exact membership number varies month to month and is reported in AARP's annual reports rather than updated in real time.
  • Members join for different reasons: discounts, publications, health resources, or to support AARP's advocacy on aging-related issues.
  • AARP's size gives the organization significant influence in policy discussions about Medicare, Social Security, and prescription drug costs.

Why membership numbers matter

AARP's size gives the organization significant influence in policy discussions about Medicare, Social Security, prescription drug costs, and other issues affecting people over 50. Lawmakers and government agencies pay attention to AARP's positions partly because the organization represents such a large share of the voting population. When AARP takes a stand on a healthcare or retirement issue, elected officials know that millions of voters are paying attention.

The membership number also reflects broader demographic trends. As the U.S. population ages, AARP's membership has grown over the past two decades. The organization tracks these trends to understand how many older adults it can reach with information and resources, and to measure how well it is serving the communities it represents.

How membership is counted

AARP counts a person as a member when they pay the annual membership fee and maintain an active account. Membership renews each year, so the total number reflects people who have paid within the current membership year. If someone lets their membership lapse, they are no longer counted in the official total.

AARP publishes membership numbers in its annual reports and in statements to the media. These reports are released once a year, which is why the most current figure available may be several months old. The organization does not update membership counts daily or weekly, so the 38 million figure represents a snapshot from a specific point in time rather than a live count.

What membership includes

A standard AARP membership gives you access to the organization's magazine and website, discounts at certain retailers and restaurants, and information about health, caregiving, and financial planning. Members can also participate in AARP's community programs and volunteer opportunities in their area. The membership also includes access to AARP's toll-free helpline for questions about benefits and resources.

AARP also offers supplemental memberships and products that cost extra, such as travel packages, insurance products, and premium digital content. The base membership fee covers the core benefits, but members can choose to purchase additional services if they want more specialized offerings.

Membership across different states

AARP members live in all 50 states, but the concentration varies. States with larger populations of people over 50 — such as Florida, California, and New York — naturally have more AARP members. AARP also has state offices in every state that run local programs and advocacy efforts tailored to each region's needs.

Some states have higher membership rates relative to their population than others, reflecting differences in how actively AARP recruits in each region and how aware older adults in that state are of the organization. Florida, for example, has a particularly high concentration of AARP members because of its large retiree population.

How AARP uses membership data

AARP uses membership information to understand the needs and concerns of older adults across the country. The organization conducts surveys of members to learn about health issues, financial worries, caregiving responsibilities, and other topics. This research informs AARP's advocacy work and the resources it develops for the public.

Membership data also helps AARP decide where to focus its programs and which issues to prioritize. If a large number of members report concerns about prescription drug costs or long-term care, AARP may dedicate more resources to those areas. The organization also uses membership trends to predict future needs as the population continues to age.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a member to read AARP's articles and information?

No. AARP publishes much of its health and caregiving information on its website for anyone to read, whether or not they are a member. Some content is reserved for members only, but a large portion is open to the public at no cost.

How often does AARP update its membership count?

AARP publishes official membership numbers once a year in its annual report. The organization does not release updated counts monthly or quarterly, so the most recent public figure may be several months old by the time you read it.

Can I join AARP online?

Yes. You can join AARP through its website by entering your information and paying the annual membership fee. You can also join by phone or mail if you prefer not to use the website.

What happens to my membership if I move to another state?

Your membership stays active regardless of where you live. AARP is a national organization, so your membership works the same in every state. You may have access to different local programs depending on your new state, but your core membership benefits remain the same.

Is AARP membership the same as Medicare?

No. AARP is a membership organization separate from Medicare. Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people 65 and older. AARP is an advocacy and membership organization open to anyone 50 and older. Some AARP members have Medicare, and some do not, depending on their age and health status.