FIRE in United States
🇺🇸 Complete FIRE guide for United States with cost of living, taxes, and FIRE number estimates for all strategies
FIRE Number Estimates for United States
Based on estimated annual expenses of $40,000 in United States, here are the FIRE targets across all strategies:
| Strategy | Annual Expenses | Withdrawal Rate | FIRE Target |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lean FIRE | $ 20,000 | 4% | $ 500,000 |
| FIRE Number | $ 40,000 | 4% | $ 1,000,000 |
| Fat FIRE | $ 100,000 | 4% | $ 2,500,000 |
| Coast FIRE | $ 40,000 | 4% | $ 1,000,000 |
| Barista FIRE | $ 26,800 | 4% | $ 670,000 |
At a 4% withdrawal rate with $40,000/year in expenses, your standard FIRE target is $ 1,000,000. Lean FIRE drops to $ 500,000 with a minimalist budget, while Fat FIRE requires $ 2,500,000 for a higher-spending lifestyle.
FIRE Strategies for United States
- Lean FIRE ($ 500,000) — Minimalist budget, fastest timeline
- Standard FIRE ($ 1,000,000) — Balanced approach
- Fat FIRE ($ 2,500,000) — Luxury retirement, no compromises
- Coast FIRE ($ 1,000,000) — Save enough early, then coast
- Barista FIRE ($ 670,000) — Semi-retirement with side income
Taxes in United States
Capital gains tax: 0-20% long-term (depending on income bracket) + 3.8% NIIT above $200K/$250K. For FIRE investors living off portfolio withdrawals, capital gains tax rates directly impact your sustainable withdrawal rate.
Tax-Advantaged Retirement Accounts
United States offers: 401(k) ($23,500/yr, employer-matched) + IRA ($7,000/yr) + HSA ($4,150/yr, triple tax-advantaged). Maximizing these accounts is critical for accelerating your path to FIRE by reducing your tax drag during the accumulation phase.
Healthcare in United States
ACA marketplace (subsidized below 400% FPL) or employer plans; Medicare at 65; Medicaid expansion in 40 states. Healthcare is one of the largest expenses for FIRE retirees — understanding your country's system helps you accurately budget for retirement.
Visa & Residency for FIRE in United States
No visa needed for US citizens/permanent residents; EB-5 investor visa ($1.05M+); no retirement-specific visa for non-citizens
FIRE Community in United States
Connect with local FIRE enthusiasts: r/financialindependence (Reddit, 2M+ members), Mr. Money Mustache, ChooseFI, Mad Fientist, Bogleheads forum
Cost of Living Tier: High
United States has relatively high living costs. You'll need a larger portfolio, but higher salaries and better infrastructure often offset the expense during the accumulation phase.
To get a precise FIRE number tailored to your situation, use the FIRE Number Calculator with your actual income and expenses.
Compare United States with Other Countries
Frequently Asked Questions About FIRE in United States
What is the FIRE number for United States?
Based on estimated annual expenses, standard FIRE targets in United States range from $ 500,000 (Lean FIRE) to $ 2,500,000 (Fat FIRE), using a 4% withdrawal rate. Your personal target depends on your actual spending and lifestyle choices.
How does the cost of living in United States affect my FIRE number?
With estimated expenses of $40,000/year, your FIRE number scales linearly: lower spending means a smaller portfolio needed. Use the FIRE Number Calculator with your actual budget for a personalized estimate.
Which FIRE strategy is best for United States?
United States supports all FIRE strategies. Lean FIRE ($ 500,000) works for minimalists, Standard FIRE ($ 1,000,000) for balanced planning, and Fat FIRE ($ 2,500,000) for those who want a higher spending lifestyle. Coast FIRE and Barista FIRE offer flexible alternatives.
What withdrawal rate should I use for United States FIRE planning?
These estimates use a 4% withdrawal rate, but the safe rate may vary based on your investment allocation, retirement duration, and local market conditions. Consider using our Safe Withdrawal Rate Calculator to explore different rates and scenarios.