The Compound
Is the F.I.R.E. Movement Dead?
10/28/2025, 6:49:23 PM
Economic Summary
- The FIRE movement gained prominence during the financial crisis when unemployment was high (around 10%), prompting people to find ways to live well on far less income and pursue early retirement.
- FIRE acted as a counter-narrative to the housing/wealth-bubble years that emphasized getting rich; some adherents did achieve success but many found early retirement unsatisfying after a short period.
- Declining journalistic coverage and increasing criticism (e.g., accusations of lifestyle creep) reduced public attention and may have contributed to the perception that the movement faded, even as a minority still practice it.
Bullish
- Attractive alternative during economic hardship and high unemployment.
- Some people genuinely enjoyed early retirement and lifestyle freedom.
- A subset achieved financial success through frugality and investing.
Bearish
- Media attention faded, reducing visibility and cultural momentum for FIRE.
- Many early retirees reported boredom and returned to work.
- Improving labor markets and lower unemployment made the movement less necessary.
- Lifestyle-creep criticism and negative portrayals undermined the movement's appeal.