Your 20s and 30s are foundational decades- not just for your career and relationships, but for your finances too. These are the years where the right knowledge and habits can make a massive difference. Here’s a carefully curated list of the best personal finance books to read in your 20s and 30s, each offering practical insights for different stages of your money journey.
Whether you’re trying to get out of debt, start investing, or simply build smarter money habits, reading the right personal finance books can provide the mindset and strategies you need.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend books I truly believe can help you build a better financial future.
1. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel
Why it’s great:
This book is not about how to budget or what stocks to buy- it’s about how we think and behave with money. Morgan Housel explores why our emotions and backgrounds shape our financial decisions more than facts and formulas.
Perfect for: Those who want to build a long-term relationship with money based on understanding, patience, and emotional intelligence.
BUY NOW on Amazon- The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel
2. I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi (2nd Edition)
Why it’s great:
Ramit Sethi’s approach is bold, no-nonsense, and incredibly practical. The book lays out a 6-week plan covering saving, budgeting, automating your finances, and investing- all tailored for millennials and Gen Z.
Perfect for: Anyone looking for a step-by-step action plan to set up their finances, especially beginners who want results without deprivation.
BUY NOW on Amazon- I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi (2nd Edition)
3. Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin & Joe Dominguez
Why it’s great:
This book is a financial classic. It challenges you to rethink the way you view money, time, and life. The authors present a system to track expenses, evaluate what matters most, and ultimately design a more intentional, value-driven financial life.
Perfect for: Anyone interested in financial independence, conscious spending, or simplifying their lifestyle.
BUY NOW on Amazon- Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin & Joe Dominguez
4. Broke Millennial by Erin Lowry
Why it’s great:
Written specifically for young adults who are overwhelmed or intimidated by financial jargon, this book makes money talk relatable and understandable. Erin Lowry breaks down everything from student loans to awkward money conversations.
Perfect for: People in their 20s just starting out with bills, jobs, and adulting.
BUY NOW on Amazon- Broke Millennial by Erin Lowry
5. The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins
Why it’s great:
This book started as letters from a father to his daughter, explaining how to invest wisely. It’s now one of the most beloved beginner guides to building wealth through index investing, financial independence, and simple money strategies.
Perfect for: Anyone who wants a no-fluff guide to investing and building wealth the slow, steady, and smart way.
BUY NOW on Amazon- The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins
6. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
Why it’s great:
A timeless personal finance book that introduces the idea of assets vs. liabilities and why financial education matters more than high income. Kiyosaki contrasts the mindsets of his “rich dad” and “poor dad” in a way that’s easy to grasp.
Perfect for: Those new to financial literacy who need to break away from paycheck-to-paycheck thinking.
BUY NOW on Amazon- Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
7. The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley & William D. Danko
Why it’s great:
Based on research into real American millionaires, this book debunks myths about wealth. It turns out most millionaires live modestly, avoid debt, and focus on long-term planning. A lesson in how ordinary discipline can lead to extraordinary wealth.
Perfect for: Anyone who wants to understand the habits and mindsets of self-made millionaires.
BUY NOW on Amazon- The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley & William D. Danko
8. Set for Life by Scott Trench
Why it’s great:
A more aggressive take on achieving financial independence early in life, this book focuses on saving aggressively, increasing income, and making strategic investments to set yourself free by your 30s or 40s.
Perfect for: Ambitious readers who want to escape the 9–5 grind and retire early.
BUY NOW on Amazon- Set for Life by Scott Trench
9. Money: Master the Game by Tony Robbins
Why it’s great:
Tony Robbins interviews some of the world’s greatest financial minds and distills their advice into practical steps. It’s a bit dense at times, but incredibly valuable for understanding long-term investing, wealth building, and financial security.
Perfect for: Readers looking to go beyond basics and start mastering long-term wealth strategies.
BUY NOW on Amazon- Money: Master the game by Tony Robbins
Tips for Reading and Applying These Books
Reading finance books is great, but implementation is key. Here’s how to get the most out of your reading:
- Take notes. Write down action steps and revisit them every month.
- Start with one habit at a time. Automate savings or track spending before diving into investing.
- Talk about money. Share what you learn with friends, partners, or online communities.
- Revisit the books yearly. As your income and life evolve, so will your financial goals.
Below is a curated list of some of the most insightful and practical finance books that have stood the test of time. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to deepen your understanding, these books are a must-read.
Click the “Buy Now” links to grab your copy and start transforming your financial mindset today
| Book Title | Author | Buy Now |
| The Psychology of Money | Morgan Housel | BUY NOW |
| I Will Teach You to Be Rich | Ramit Sethi | BUY NOW |
| Your Money or Your Life | Vicki Robin & Joe Dominguez | BUY NOW |
| Broke Millennial | Erin Lowry | BUY NOW |
| The Simple Path to Wealth | JL Collins | BUY NOW |
| Rich Dad Poor Dad | Robert T. Kiyosaki | BUY NOW |
| The Millionaire Next Door | Thomas J. Stanley & William D. Danko | BUY NOW |
| Set for Life | Scott Trench | BUY NOW |
| Money: Master the Game | Tony Robbins | BUY NOW |
Building strong financial habits in your 20s and 30s can shape your entire future. These books won’t make you rich overnight- but they will equip you with timeless knowledge and the confidence to make smart money decisions.
Whether you’re just starting out or trying to level up your finances, these books provide the roadmap you didn’t get in school.
Let your financial literacy journey begin- one page at a time.
Start with any one of them and you’ll be well on your way to building a stronger financial future. Which one will you read first?