FIRE Calculator: How to Calculate Your Financial Independence Number

March 15, 2026 · 5 min read

The FIRE movement (Financial Independence, Retire Early) has transformed how millions think about retirement. Instead of waiting until 65, FIRE enthusiasts aim to save enough that their investments can sustain their lifestyle indefinitely. Use our FIRE Calculator to find your number.

The Simple Math: The 25× Rule

Your FIRE number = Annual Expenses × 25. If you spend $40,000/year, you need $1,000,000. Spend $60,000/year? You need $1,500,000. This is based on the 4% safe withdrawal rate — withdraw 4% of your portfolio annually and it should last 30+ years. Our Safe Withdrawal Rate Calculator models this in detail.

Why Savings Rate Matters More Than Income

A software engineer earning $200K who spends $180K (10% savings rate) will take 51 years to reach FIRE. A teacher earning $55K who spends $30K (45% savings rate) reaches FIRE in 19 years. The savings rate — not the income — determines your timeline. Calculate yours with our 50/30/20 Budget Calculator.

Where to Put Your FIRE Savings

Max your 401K employer match first (free money). Then max your Roth IRA ($7,000). Then fill your HSA ($4,150). Then go back to your 401K. Finally, invest in taxable brokerage accounts. Track it all with our Net Worth Calculator.