Savings rate simulator
How long until work is optional? It depends on the rate.
Financial independence isn't a number — it's a ratio. Save 30% of your take-home, you're ~24 years out. Save 50%, you're ~15. Save 70%, you're ~8. Income matters; the ratio matters more.
What your numbers say
Years to FI
27 years
saving 25%/mo
Saving $1,500/mo
Target: $1.35M (25× expenses)
Same expenses, different rates
15 years
at a 50% savings rate
30% savings: 24 years
70% savings: 8 years
The math
FI = 25× annual expenses (the 4% rule). At 7% returns, the savings rate alone determines the timeline.
Assumes you start at $0 and contribute steadily. Most people start with some savings, which shortens the timeline. This is the worst-case "starting from scratch" version.
Talk through what's right for you