FIRE Number for Austin, United States

A one-bedroom apartment in East Riverside or North Loop. You need a car, and summer electric bills spike from A/C, which squeezes the budget. You cook most meals and eat at taco trucks a few times a week. The major advantage is Texas's zero state income tax -- every dollar of your $3,333 withdrawal stays with you. Free live music on 6th Street and swimming at Barton Springs keep entertainment costs low.

A three-bedroom house in Travis Heights or Zilker, or a modern condo downtown. You dine regularly at top restaurants like Uchi and Emmer & Rye, take weekend trips to Fredericksburg wine country, and rent boats on Lake Travis. At $10,000 a month with no state income tax, Austin is comfortably affluent. The city's music scene, outdoor recreation along the Colorado River, and growing food culture are all easily accessible.

A large estate in Barton Creek or a waterfront property on Lake Austin. You have a full-time housekeeper, a cook who comes in several times a week, and a personal assistant. You dine wherever you want, travel first class, and keep a boat on Lake Travis. Texas's zero state income tax means the full $33,333 monthly budget is available for spending. You support local institutions as a donor and live very comfortably in a city with a relaxed pace and strong food and music culture.