Region: US | Usage example: She set aside a portion of every paycheck because a penny saved is a penny earned.

A penny saved is a penny earned

Meaning

Being frugal today can grow future wealth.

Used to praise saving instead of spending impulsively.

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Popularized by Benjamin Franklin as a proverb in Poor Richard's Almanack.

Franklin published it in 1737, and it became central to American thrift culture.