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    Learn About FIRE

    Lean FIRE — Retire Early on a Minimalist Budget

    Lean FIRE is the practice of reaching financial independence as quickly as possible by living on a modest budget. Instead of saving millions, you design a fulfilling life on less — and let the math work in your favour.

    What is Lean FIRE?

    Lean FIRE targets annual spending in the range of €20,000–€30,000 per year. At a 4% withdrawal rate, that means a FIRE number of roughly €500,000–€750,000 — far smaller than traditional retirement targets.

    Lean FIRE number = €25,000 × 25 = €625,000

    (based on a 4% withdrawal rate)

    The Lean FIRE lifestyle

    • Housing: smaller homes, house hacking, geo-arbitrage or van life.
    • Transport: bikes, public transit, used cars — or no car at all.
    • Food: cooking at home, meal prepping, avoiding food waste.
    • Healthcare: choosing countries with affordable universal care.
    • Leisure: free hobbies, library, nature, community events.

    Pros and cons

    Advantages

    Faster path to FI, lower stress, more intentional living, less environmental impact.

    Challenges

    Less buffer for emergencies, rigid budget discipline, lifestyle may not suit everyone.

    Run your own Lean FIRE numbers

    Use the MyFireView calculator to see how fast you could reach Lean FIRE with your current savings rate.

    Start your FIRE plan

    Keep learning about FIRE

    Explore the other FIRE strategies and frequently asked questions to round out your plan.

    What is FIRE

    FIRE explained: the 4% rule, how to calculate your FIRE number, savings-rate math and the Lean, Fat, Coast and Barista variants — in one guide.

    Fat FIRE

    Fat FIRE targets €80k–€150k a year in retirement spending. Learn the portfolio size you need, the strategy and who Fat FIRE is right for.

    Coast FIRE

    Coast FIRE means you've saved enough that compounding alone grows your portfolio to your FIRE number. Learn the formula, benefits and pitfalls.

    Barista FIRE

    Barista FIRE blends part-time work with portfolio withdrawals so you can exit full-time work years earlier. Learn the formula and typical roles.

    FIRE FAQ

    Answers to the most common questions about FIRE, the 4% rule and your FIRE number.