BiggerPockets Money Podcast Which FIRE Strategy is Best for You? (Lean to Fat FIRE)
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Sep 19, 2025 Explore the diverse world of FIRE strategies, from traditional to fat FIRE, each offering unique paths to financial independence. Discover the specific savings and timelines required for each approach, along with their pros and cons. Learn how personality types align with different strategies and the lifestyle sacrifices involved. Whether minimalist with lean FIRE or enjoying luxury with fat FIRE, this discussion provides clarity on how to tailor your path toward achieving your financial goals.
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Traditional FIRE Basics
- Traditional FIRE targets $1–$2.5M to support a middle-class lifestyle and typical spending between $40k–$120k per year.
- The primary lever is savings rate, and timelines usually range from 7–20 years depending on income and discipline.
What Coast FIRE Means
- Coast FIRE means your retirement accounts will compound to fully fund retirement without additional savings.
- Reaching coast fire lets you ease off saving and pursue lower-stress or part-time work while still being on track for retirement.
Check Your Coast Number
- Calculate your coast number to know if you can reduce saving pressure and pivot your career.
- Use long-term return assumptions carefully and consider your age when deciding to ease off the gas.