When Is Meetup Free and How Much Can It Cost?

MeetupSocial Media

By Kay FleuryUpdated on March 16, 2022

Now that you know a bit about what Meetup is and how it works, you’re probably wondering how much it’s going to cost you. Luckily, we can tell you exactly how Meetup makes its money, how much it will potentially cost you, and how you can utilize Meetup without breaking the bank. The very first question you’re probably asking is “is Meetup free?”

Meetup is free to sign up for and use; there are no fees associated with using the website. Meetup charges group organizers $14.99/month for up to 50 members and 3 organizers, or $19.99/month with no restrictions. It is up to the discretion of the organizer whether members pay additional fees to belong to the group.

Meetup pricing

Meetup may cost users various amounts of money, as the purpose of each group is specific and varied. In general, group organizers do not charge more than what is required to keep the group running. However, a group that meets for hiking would pay substantially less than a group that meets to try new 5-star restaurants.

3 tips for saving money while using Meetup

  1. If you can, try to join an existing group based around your interest(s), rather than starting your own. Not only will you save yourself the monthly organizer fee, but you’ll also likely find more interested people in an already-established group than a new one that you start yourself.
  2. Before joining a group, think about the potential indirect fees associated with that activity. The organizer may only ask for $2/month, but joining a group may mean paying for meals, gas or transportation, necessary supplies or materials, or other fees you haven’t thought of yet. Try making a list of what these fees may be before making the decision to join a group.
  3. Try brainstorming ways you can reduce additional costs, or at least split them among other group members. Arrange a carpool within your group, or have individual group members buy small quantities of a material that you need a large supply of.

That’s how Meetup pricing and costs work! Continue working your way through our Meetup course to learn more!