FIRE Calculator
Estimate your FIRE number and how long it will take to reach financial independence based on savings, spending, and investment growth.
Income & savings
Spending & FIRE number
Investment growth
FIRE formulas
1. FIRE number
FIRE number =
Annual spending ÷ (Withdrawal rate ÷ 100)
2. Annual savings
Annual savings =
Income × (Savings rate ÷ 100)
3. Portfolio growth
Balance_next =
(Balance_current + Annual savings) × (1 + Net growth rate)
The calculator applies these formulas year‑by‑year until your portfolio reaches your FIRE number.
Understanding your FIRE timeline
The FIRE movement focuses on building enough invested assets to retire early using a safe withdrawal rate. This calculator helps you estimate how long that journey may take under simplified assumptions.
Key drivers of your FIRE timeline
- Your savings rate — higher savings dramatically accelerate FIRE.
- Your annual spending — lower spending reduces your required FIRE number.
- Investment returns — higher returns compound your savings faster.
- Fee drag — even small fees reduce long‑term growth.
- Withdrawal rate — lower withdrawal rates require larger FIRE numbers.
Worked example
Suppose you earn $90,000, save 35%, spend $40,000, have $150,000 invested, expect 6.5% returns, and use a 4% withdrawal rate:
- Annual savings = 90,000 × 0.35 = $31,500.
- FIRE number = 40,000 ÷ 0.04 = $1,000,000.
- Your portfolio grows each year by adding savings and applying net growth.
If your portfolio reaches $1,000,000 in year 17, your estimated FIRE timeline is 17 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this model market volatility?
No. It uses fixed return assumptions. Real‑world results vary with market cycles.
Is the 4% rule always safe?
Not always. It depends on inflation, market conditions, and retirement length. Use this tool to explore alternatives.
Can I export my FIRE projection?
Yes. Use Export CSV to download your year‑by‑year projection.
Is this financial advice?
No. It’s an educational tool. Consult a financial professional for personalized guidance.
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Information on this site is for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Calculations are estimates and may not reflect actual results. See our Privacy Policy and Disclaimer.