Can You Retire Early with $2 Million and a Six-Figure Pension?

Core Insights - Early retirement poses significant risks, especially when leaving the workforce in one's 30s or 40s, as savings must last much longer than in traditional retirement scenarios [1] - Retiring in mid-50s reduces longevity risk, as the nest egg only needs to stretch for an additional decade rather than two or three [2] Financial Position - The individual discussed has a total portfolio of $4.5 million, comprising a 401(k) valued at $2 million and a brokerage account with $2.5 million, along with a pension that provides a reliable income stream [3][4] - Without a pension, the individual would face meaningful risk, needing to withdraw around 3% annually, equating to approximately $135,000 in income [4] Pension Impact - The pension significantly alters the retirement outlook, providing a strong income foundation and reducing pressure on savings; the individual is set to receive a $120,000 annual pension starting in 2026, potentially increasing to $170,000 over time [5][6] - This pension allows for a more sustainable early retirement, enabling the individual to withdraw less from investments while still achieving a total income close to $200,000 annually [6] Pensions in Context - Pensions have become increasingly rare, particularly in the private sector, with Social Security being the closest equivalent, yet it falls short of the pension benefits discussed [7] Healthcare Considerations - While the individual may face higher healthcare costs until Medicare eligibility, their income sources and savings position them to manage these expenses comfortably [8]