Another approach to consider, that's so straightforward and quick that most will consider it boring and overlook it. - kill services with low usage - downgrad

Another approach to consider, that's so straightforward and quick that most will consider it boring and overlook it. - kill services with low usage - downgrade instance size - downgrade instance type - merge databases - schedule services with obvious usage patterns to shut down when not used - use EC2 spot instances Most importantly, it requires an aggressive culling mindset. If drastically reducing the AWS bill means staying afloat, then make bold choices.