Coast FI Gains Gen Z Fans With $272,000 Target for $1.5 Million Retirement

2 articles · Updated · The Independent · Sep 9

$272,000 saved by age 30 can grow to $1.5 million by 65 at a 5% annual return, a Coast FI formula drawing rising interest from Gen Z.
The strategy aims to front-load retirement saving so workers can stop contributing earlier and gain career flexibility, shifting the goal from retiring early to working by choice.
Gen Z's appeal lies in time freedom, and the cohort already increased IRA contributions by 65% in the past year, putting many young savers ahead of older generations on retirement readiness.
Financial planners caution that Coast FI depends on assumptions about returns, retirement age and future expenses; saving beyond the target can provide a buffer against shocks such as illness or earlier retirement.