Coast FIRE vs Other FIRE Strategies
The FIRE umbrella covers several distinct strategies. Each makes different trade-offs between target portfolio size, time to reach it, and lifestyle.
| Strategy | Typical target | Annual spend | Stop working? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coast FIRE | ~25% of full FIRE number | Normal | No — keep earning to cover today |
| Lean FIRE | $500k–$1M | <$40k | Yes — frugally |
| Traditional FIRE | $1M–$2.5M | $40–$100k | Yes |
| Fat FIRE | $2.5M+ | $100k+ | Yes — comfortably |
| Barista FIRE | 50–80% of full FIRE | Normal | Part-time, often for benefits |
Coast FIRE
Front-load investing, then let compounding do the rest. You still need earned income for current expenses. Best for people who want career flexibility without quitting entirely.
Lean FIRE
Achieve a smaller portfolio that supports a deliberately minimal lifestyle. Demands permanent frugality but reaches full independence faster.
Traditional FIRE
Save aggressively until your portfolio covers your current standard of living at a 4% withdrawal. The textbook version of FIRE.
Fat FIRE
FIRE with a larger portfolio that supports an upscale lifestyle. Takes longer to reach but reduces lifestyle compromises.
Barista FIRE
A hybrid: portfolio covers most expenses, while a part-time job (often the namesake Starbucks role) covers healthcare and a small income gap.
Which is right for you?
- Want career flexibility ASAP → Coast FIRE.
- Comfortable with permanent minimalism → Lean FIRE.
- Want to fully stop working at standard comfort → Traditional FIRE.
- Want to stop working with upscale lifestyle → Fat FIRE.
- Healthcare or social reasons to keep partial work → Barista FIRE.
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