If someone asked you when you plan to retire, would you say 65? Would you say when you turn the big 6-0?
I used to think this way, but that’s the traditional path we’ve all been taught. to wait until we are around that age to say we "have retired"
But what if there were other ways—better ways—to approach retirement?
Retirement used to be one of those words that I try to avoid because I thought it was “too early” to plan for it. But I realized that retirement doesn’t have to be a one-time event at the end of your working life. It can be phased, flexible, and even fun.
Here are 4 types of retirement that every nurse should know about—plus why early planning gives you more freedom to choose the path that fits your life.
1. Traditional Retirement
Retire at 60–65, stop working, and live off savings, pensions, and Social Security.
This is the model many nurses still follow—especially those with pensions or long careers in the same hospital system. But here’s the catch: many nurses burn out long before 65.
Reality check: The average nurse retires at age 58, often due to physical exhaustion, burnout, or health issues—not because they hit some magical financial milestone.
That’s why it’s critical to start planning early. Even if you end up retiring at 60, starting now gives you options instead of being forced to work until you can’t.
2. Semi-Retirement
Work fewer hours or shift to lower-stress roles, while still earning income.
Imagine working 1–2 days a week as a per diem nurse or in a telehealth role, while spending the rest of your week traveling, resting, or spending time with family.
This is ideal for nurses who love their profession but want a slower pace. This is where I am at right now. I am working less hours (32 hours) right now while spending the rest of the “free time” building a business and traveling.
The key to being able to do this is a strong financial foundation. I was able to “semi-retire” because I was able to hit COAST FI.
3. Entrepreneurial Retirement
Replace your job income with business income, investments, or a mix of both.
You don’t have to stop working—you just stop working for someone else. Most people fall into this type of retirement because they want to be their own boss. Of course, having a business has it’s own set of challenges but one of the perks of being your own boss is that you have control of your time.
There are a lot of businesses that you can start as a nurse, maybe you start a wellness business, create digital products, teach CPR classes, or monetize your expertise online. This route lets you retire from traditional nursing while staying engaged, creative, and in control of your schedule.
Pro tip: Many nurses in my community use their stable income to build and invest in businesses on the side—setting themselves up to “retire” from clinical work years earlier than planned. Doing it as a side hustle at first makes it more sustainable and provides better financial foundation once you decide to do this business venture full-time.
4. Temporary or Mini-Retirements
Take extended breaks (3–12 months) from work to travel, study, or rest.
Why wait until 65 to live your life? Mini-retirements are intentional pauses that let you enjoy the freedom of retirement now—even if just for a season.
This is perfect for travel nurses who want to take a year off between contracts or nurses who want to stay home with their kids while they’re young.
The key is financial preparation: having savings, investments, or passive income to support you during the break.
Why Early Retirement Planning Matters for Nurses
Nursing is a deeply rewarding career—but also one of the most physically and emotionally demanding.
Waiting until you’re 65 to plan your exit isn’t just risky—it’s unnecessary.
The earlier you plan:
-The more time your money has to grow
-The more freedom you have to choose your retirement style
-The less likely you are to feel stuck in burnout or golden handcuffs
Want to Learn How to Retire Early (Your Way)?
Register for this workshop we held last month for nurses week: FI/RE for Nurses: How to Retire Early Without Quitting Your Job Tomorrow
You’ll learn:
- The 4-step framework to reach financial independence—even if you’re starting from scratch
- How to invest confidently (without needing a finance degree)
- A session with an Early Retirement CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
- The most common money mistakes nurses make—and how to avoid them
This was a LIVE workshop but access to replays + workbook can be done HERE. You will also get a limited access to my signature program Employ Your Money if you register for this FI/RE workshop.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all path to retirement. Also remember that retirement is a SPECTRUM and you decide what retirement is for YOU.
Whether you dream of traveling the world, starting a business, or simply working less without money stress, the goal is the same: freedom.
And it starts with a decision today—to learn, to plan, and to believe that you don’t have to wait until 65 to live your best life.
To keep you updated:
If you made it this far, thank you! I appreciate you being in the list, messaging me for questions and tuning in every week. If you have noticed, the last few weeks have been sporadic T_T
I have been very busy. I just quit my nurse practitioner job and it's my last week at work... I am so sad to leave my job that I love but I am excited for the new chapter along with a new city to live in.
If you want to follow along, make sure you follow me on social media: nursewhoinvests
Have an amazing week ahead <3
I'm here reading your emails. Email back if you want to say hi or have any questions. Always, Ellaine
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