[bradlys]

I get that some developers at big companies make $600k+/yr but saving $15,000,000 over even 25 years requires putting away 15m/25 => $600k/yr. That's net income to be put away too. So, really you're probably making $1m/yr. I get you'll see return on investment over those 25 years but we're talking true 1% income regardless - which most software devs will never get near. (Even most in the bay area)

[dgacmu]

You're way undercounting the effects of growth. It's 342k/year saved at 8% growth: http://www.angio.net/finance/calc.html

(See the one for regular contribution required for target).

8% before inflation is reasonable historically for 25 years.

You still need a 400k+ salary to do it, but that's not out of reach in the Bay area, particularly for a couple.

[bradlys]

Over $600k yearly comp required still. Tax on $600k income puts you near $330k in California.

https://smartasset.com/taxes/california-paycheck-calculator#...