If you’ve ever dreamed of ditching the 9-to-5 grind and living life on your own terms, you’re not alone. Millions of people are embracing the FIRE movement — Financial Independence, Retire Early — and the journey often begins with the right book. We’ve rounded up the top 10 books on how to retire early, each packed with real-life strategies, inspiring stories, and practical money advice.

1. Early Retirement Extreme – Jacob Lund Fisker

This is the blueprint for radical early retirement. Fisker’s system combines frugality with systems-thinking to help readers live well on just a fraction of a typical income. It’s not a get-rich-quick read — it’s a lifestyle guide.

2. Playing with FIRE – Scott & Taylor Rieckens

Based on the popular documentary, this book shares one couple’s journey from overspending to financial freedom. Great for readers new to the FIRE lifestyle and looking for a relatable path.

3. Financial Freedom – Grant Sabatier

Dubbed “The Millennial Millionaire,” Sabatier details how he went from broke to financially independent in just five years. Ideal for anyone who wants to get serious about early retirement with practical, scalable tactics.

4. The Millionaire Next Door – Thomas J. Stanley & William D. Danko

This classic exposes the habits of real-life millionaires who live modestly, save aggressively, and invest smartly. A must-read for building a long-term wealth mindset.

5. Rich Dad Poor Dad – Robert Kiyosaki

One of the best-selling financial books of all time. It teaches the fundamentals of money and investing through the lens of two very different father figures. A go-to for mindset shift and understanding assets vs. liabilities.

6. You Can Retire Early! – Deacon Hayes

Targeted toward readers in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, this book outlines actionable steps to break free from the traditional retirement timeline. It’s straightforward, practical, and motivating.

7. The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Retiring Early – Dee Lee & Jim Flewelling

A great starting point for total beginners. Covers everything from budgeting and reducing debt to investing and early retirement strategies in simple language.

8. How to Retire Early – Robert Charlton

This book shares the journey of a couple who retired in their 30s. It includes spreadsheets, income projections, and lifestyle adjustments — perfect for analytical minds who want numbers and real case studies.

9. How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free – Ernie Zelinski

A refreshingly different take, focusing on the non-financial aspects of early retirement: happiness, purpose, and freedom. A great companion book once your finances are in order.

10. How to Retire: 20 Lessons for a Happy, Successful, and Wealthy Retirement – Frank Alberti

Released in 2024, this book blends classic wisdom with modern-day retirement planning. It’s especially useful for Gen X and Baby Boomers looking to optimize their final working years.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re just discovering FIRE or are already well on your path, these books can help you optimize your mindset, habits, and strategies to retire sooner than later. Pair this list with tools like budgeting apps, investing platforms, and lifestyle design journals to take real action.

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