The Retirement Reality Curve (The Spending Smile)

Traditional retirement planning often assumes a constant, inflation-adjusted spending level throughout your golden years. However, real-world data suggests a "U-shaped" spending pattern: higher in your active "Go-Go" years, lower in your "Slow-Go" years, and potentially higher again in "No-Go" years due to increased healthcare needs.

This tool helps you model your true spending trajectory, revealing hidden spending power and providing a more realistic and optimistic view of your retirement finances.

Quick Start: Spending Stages Presets New

Click a preset to auto-fill typical spending patterns. This often reduces your required FIRE number!

✈️
Go-Go Years
Ages 50-70
Travel, dining out, hobbies, adventure. Living your best life!
100% of budget
🏡
Slow-Go Years
Ages 70-80
Home-focused, local travel, gardening, grandkids.
80% of budget
🏥
No-Go Years
Ages 80+
Healthcare focus, minimal travel, home care needs.
60% base + healthcare
📊 Your Spending Curve Preview
Go-Go Slow-Go No-Go
💡 Good news! Realistic spending stages often reduce your required portfolio by 15-25%!

Your Profile

Your Spending Layers

Optional Lifestyle Adjustments

Your Retirement Spending Trajectory

"Go-Go" Bonus Revealed!

Long-Term Care Stress Test