Can I realistically pursue FIRE while raising kids?

Yes, but kids change the math, so build their costs into your plan rather than assuming you'll absorb them. Childcare, larger housing, healthcare, activities, and future college all raise your annual spending — the very number that sets your FIRE target — so families typically need a bigger portfolio or a longer timeline. On the other hand, kids can sharpen the appeal of FIRE by buying back time during their childhood. Practical levers include funding a 529 separately so college isn't a portfolio shock, keeping lifestyle inflation in check as income rises, and modeling that some expenses (childcare) fall away while others (teen activities, cars) appear. Decide whether your FIRE number includes full college funding or just partial. Two incomes during the accumulation years accelerate things significantly. Start by pricing a realistic family budget at wealthserene.com/tools/budget-analyzer and college costs at wealthserene.com/tools/college-planner.