Financial management tools are increasing in popularity, however, it is always difficult to choose which tool to commit to.
Monarch Money and Rocket Money are two different tools we’ve heard about that we wanted to compare as of early 2025.
Monarch Money Financial Planning Tool Strengths
- Comprehensive financial integration: Monarch excels in combining data from various financial accounts, providing a holistic view of your finances.
- Customizable budgeting options: Users can tailor budgets to their specific needs and financial situations.
- Investment tracking: Recently added feature allows portfolio analysis across multiple brokers and accounts.
- Collaboration features: Allows household members to share dashboards with unique logins.
- Clean, ad-free interface: Offers a user-friendly experience without distractions.
- Google Sheets integration: Enables custom budget report generation.
Monarch Money Financial Planning Tool Weaknesses
- Higher cost: Priced at $14.99 monthly or $99.99 annually, which may be steep for budget-conscious users.
- Limited cryptocurrency support: Currently only syncs with Coinbase.
- No credit score monitoring: Lacks this feature despite being a comprehensive financial tool.
- Investment tracking still developing: While improved, it’s not as robust as some competitors.
Rocket Money Financial Planning Tool Strengths
- Bill negotiation and subscription management: Excels in helping users reduce expenses and cancel unwanted subscriptions.
- Zero-based budgeting focus: Ideal for those who prefer this budgeting method.
- 24/7 customer support: Offers round-the-clock chat and email assistance.
- Lower cost: Generally more affordable than Monarch Money.
- Investment tracking: Provides efficient tools for monitoring investments.
Rocket Money Financial Planning Tool Weaknesses
- Less comprehensive financial overview: Focuses more on specific areas like bill reduction rather than overall financial management.
- Limited customization: Offers fewer options for personalizing the budgeting experience compared to Monarch.
- Ad-supported model: May include advertisements, potentially affecting user experience.
Who is the Ideal User for Monarch Money?
- Individuals or families seeking a comprehensive view of their finances.
- Users who value customization in budgeting and financial planning.
- Those willing to pay for a premium, ad-free experience.
- Investors looking for integrated investment tracking within their budgeting tool.
Who is the Ideal User for Rocket Money?
- Budget-conscious individuals focused on reducing expenses.
- Users who prefer zero-based budgeting.
- Those seeking active assistance in managing subscriptions and negotiating bills.
- Individuals who prioritize 24/7 customer support.
What Tool Should I Use for Managing my Finances?
Both Monarch Money and Rocket Money offer unique features catering to different financial management needs.
As with most financial tools, it really depends on what your financial goals and needs are. If you are looking for a financial management tool, explore each option for yourself to see if either is a good fit for you.
About the Financial Planning Author
Alexander Langan, J.D, CFBS, serves as the Chief Investment Officer at Langan Financial Group. In this role, he manages investment portfolios, acts as a fiduciary for group retirement plans, and consults with clients regarding their financial goals, risk tolerance, and asset allocation.
With a focus on ERISA Law, Alex graduated cum laude from Widener Commonwealth Law School. He then clerked for the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania and worked in the Legal Office of the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget, where he assisted in directing and advising policy determinations on state and federal tax, administrative law, and contractual issues.
Alex is also passionate about giving back to the community, and has participated in The Foundation of Enhancing Communities’ Emerging Philanthropist Program, volunteers at his church, and serves as a board member of Samara: The Center of Individual & Family Growth. Outside of work and volunteering, Alex enjoys his time with his wife Sarah, and their three children, Rory, Patrick, and Ava.
About Langan Financial Group: Financial Advisors
Langan Financial Group is an award-winning financial planning firm with offices in York, Pennsylvania and Harrisburg, Pa.
With over 100+ 5-star reviews, Langan Financial Group is an independent financial planning firm established in 1985, offering a broad range of financial planning services.
With an open architecture platform, our advisors have access to a diverse range of products, free from any sales quotas.
Our team of 9 financial experts, each with unique specialties, enhances our ability to focus on delivering value to our clients.
Disclosure
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice.
Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.
The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.
Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.
Investment Advisor Representative, Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc. a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Langan Financial Group, LLC are not affiliated. 
Cambridge does not offer tax or legal advice.
