9 Must-Read Money Books in 2025

The right books can provide valuable insights, helping individuals make informed decisions about saving, investing, and wealth-building. These books will equip you with the skills needed to manage money effectively. Below is a list of 9 must-read money books that can set you on the path to financial success.

1. The Total Money Makeover – Dave Ramsey

A must-read for those struggling with debt, The Total Money Makeover provides a clear, no-nonsense approach to getting out of debt and building wealth. Dave Ramsey’s baby steps method has helped millions regain control of their finances. The book outlines a step-by-step process to eliminate debt, build an emergency fund, and invest for retirement. Ramsey advocates for a debt-free lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of living within one’s means and making informed financial decisions. His practical advice is particularly useful for individuals looking to take control of their money and achieve lasting financial stability.

2. The Psychology of Money – Morgan Housel

Understanding the behavioral side of finance is crucial for making wise financial decisions. The Psychology of Money explores how emotions, biases, and personal experiences influence our relationship with money and how to develop a healthier mindset toward wealth. Housel uses storytelling to explain complex financial concepts in an accessible way, illustrating how human behavior impacts financial success more than intelligence or strategy. The book teaches readers to manage money with a long-term perspective, avoid common financial pitfalls, and embrace a mindset that fosters financial resilience and independence.

3. The Millionaire Next Door – Thomas J. Stanley & William D. Danko

This eye-opening book reveals that most millionaires in America are not celebrities or high earners but everyday people who practice frugality, invest consistently, and live below their means. It provides insights into the habits of wealthy individuals and how anyone can achieve financial success. The authors conducted extensive research to identify the characteristics of self-made millionaires, debunking the myth that wealth is inherited or dependent on extravagant lifestyles. Instead, they found that the majority of millionaires prioritize saving, drive modest cars, and avoid unnecessary debt. By applying these principles, readers can adopt similar habits to accumulate long-term wealth without requiring a high income.

4. Think and Grow Rich – Napoleon Hill

A classic in the self-improvement and financial literacy genre, Think and Grow Rich teaches the power of goal-setting, persistence, and developing a wealth-building mindset. Napoleon Hill studied over 500 wealthy individuals to uncover the common principles of success. The book emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision, backed by a burning desire and unwavering faith in achieving financial goals. Hill introduces concepts such as the "Mastermind Group," where individuals collaborate with like-minded people to enhance their knowledge and opportunities. The book also stresses that success is not just about money but about developing a mindset that attracts prosperity in all areas of life.

5. The Barefoot Investor – Scott Pape

Scott Pape’s Barefoot Investor provides a clear, easy-to-follow roadmap to financial security. His approach revolves around simple yet powerful strategies, such as the bucket system, which categorizes income into different spending and savings groups. The book also covers cutting unnecessary expenses, increasing savings, eliminating debt, and growing wealth over time. Pape’s real-life, relatable examples make financial concepts digestible, helping readers achieve financial independence without stress.

6. The Automatic Millionaire – David Bach

David Bach’s "The Automatic Millionaire" offers a simple and highly effective approach to building wealth over time. Bach introduces the concept of automating your finances so that saving and investing become effortless, leaving little room for financial stress or mismanagement. The book stresses the importance of paying yourself first—putting money into savings and investments automatically before addressing other expenses. Bach outlines a clear path for achieving financial freedom by automating savings, investing consistently, and living below your means.

7. I Will Teach You to Be Rich – Ramit Sethi

In a practical and entertaining manner, Ramit Sethi outlines a step-by-step system for automating finances, eliminating debt, and growing wealth through investments. This book is perfect for young professionals looking for a straightforward money management plan. Sethi’s approach focuses on optimizing personal finances by setting up automated systems for saving, investing, and spending guilt-free on things that matter. He also covers topics like negotiating salary increases, using credit cards wisely, and building passive income. With actionable strategies and real-life examples, this book provides a no-nonsense roadmap to financial success without restrictive budgeting.

8. Financial Freedom – Grant Sabatier

Sabatier provides a detailed roadmap to financial independence, with a focus on earning more, saving aggressively, and investing wisely. The book teaches how to leverage side hustles, passive income, and smart money decisions to reach financial freedom faster. Sabatier’s journey from broke to millionaire in five years serves as a blueprint for those looking to escape the traditional 9-to-5 and achieve financial security on their own terms.

9. Broke Millennial – Erin Lowry

Erin Lowry’s Broke Millennial helps young adults take control of their finances by breaking down complex money matters into relatable, engaging lessons. She tackles student loans, budgeting, investing, and financial planning with humor and practical guidance. The book also explores the psychology behind money decisions and how to build confidence in managing personal finances. With easy-to-implement steps, this book is perfect for millennials looking to break free from financial struggles and secure their future.

Final Thoughts

These books cover everything from basic financial literacy to investing strategies, providing knowledge that can transform your financial future. Start with one that resonates with you, apply its principles, and take control of your financial destiny.