Coasting versus grinding
Standard FIRE math assumes you keep contributing right up to retirement. Coast FIRE asks a different question: if you stopped adding money today, would what you already have grow — on its own — into a full retirement by your target age? Working backward from your FIRE number at your expected return reveals exactly how much needs to be invested right now for that to happen.
Why this number matters even if you keep saving
Once your current balance is projected to coast on its own, every further contribution is pulling your timeline earlier rather than rescuing a shortfall — a meaningfully different, lower-pressure position. See the FIRE Calculator for a full projection that includes ongoing contributions.
Frequently asked questions
What is Coast FIRE?
Coast FIRE is the point where you have enough already invested that, left alone with no further contributions, compound growth alone will carry it to your full FIRE number by retirement age. Once you hit it, saving more becomes optional rather than required.
How is the Coast FIRE number calculated?
Start from your full FIRE number (annual expenses ÷ withdrawal rate), then work backward at your expected return to find what you would need invested today to grow to that number by your target retirement age with zero further contributions.
What happens after I reach Coast FIRE?
You can stop investing for retirement and still be on track — freeing up income for other goals, a lower-paying but more enjoyable job, or simply more spending today. Many people keep contributing anyway to retire earlier or build a larger cushion.
Does this account for future contributions?
No — Coast FIRE specifically measures what your current balance alone will become. If you plan to keep contributing, you will likely reach financial independence earlier than this number implies; see the FIRE Calculator for a projection that includes ongoing contributions.
Last updated: June 2026