Key Numbers and Analysis
FIRE variants: budget, number, savings required, and lifestyle
| FIRE Type | Annual Budget | FIRE Number | Required Monthly Savings (from 35 to 55) | Lifestyle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lean FIRE | $20,000-$30,000/year | $500,000-$750,000 | $800-$1,200/mo | Minimalist; geographic flexibility |
| Regular FIRE | $40,000-$60,000/year | $1,000,000-$1,500,000 | $1,600-$2,500/mo | Middle-class comfortable |
| Fat FIRE | $80,000-$120,000/year | $2,000,000-$3,000,000 | $3,200-$5,000/mo | Luxurious; no trade-offs |
| Barista FIRE | $40,000/year ($20K portfolio + $20K work) | $500,000 + part-time job | $800/mo to $500K | Flexible; some work required |
🔑Barista FIRE Is Underrated
Barista FIRE (working part-time enough for health insurance and $15,000-$25,000/year income) reduces the required FIRE number by 40-60%. On $40,000/year expenses with $20,000 from part-time work, only $20,000/year must come from portfolio — requiring just $500,000 at 4% SWR.
Scenarios and Comparison
FIRE variant comparison by ideal user, risk, and income requirement
| Variant | Best For | Biggest Risk | Income Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lean FIRE | Minimalists, geographic arbitrage, singles | Any unexpected expense threatens budget | $50,000-$70,000 with high savings rate |
| Regular FIRE | Most households with moderate lifestyle | Healthcare costs underestimated | $75,000-$120,000 |
| Fat FIRE | High earners, luxury lifestyle preference | Requires very high income or very long timeline | $150,000-$200,000+ |
| Barista FIRE | Those not ready for full FIRE, healthcare seekers | Part-time job becomes unenjoyable | $50,000-$100,000 |
Run Your Own Calculation
Enter your specific numbers to get personalized projections.