Will Returning to the Office Force You to Move?
The rise of remote work gave employees the flexibility to live wherever they wanted. Many took advantage of this freedom, moving away from crowded urban areas to more affordable suburbs or even rural locations.
But as companies roll back remote work policies and require employees to return to the office, many workers now face a tough decision—move closer to work or endure a long daily commute.
During the pandemic, millions of workers relocated to areas with a lower cost of living, larger homes, or better quality of life. However, with return-to-office mandates increasing, some employees must now rethink where they live.
According to Bright MLS, more than half of remote workers surveyed would either have to move or deal with a long commute if required to return to the office (see chart below):
49% live close enough to avoid major changes.
25% would face a long commute.
15% would probably need to move.
11% would definitely have to relocate.
For those in the 51% who don’t live close, commute times and costs may become major factors in their next housing decision.
If you’ve been working remotely and now need to commute daily, it’s important to ask yourself:
✅ Can I handle the extra time spent commuting?
✅ How much will transportation costs impact my budget?
✅ Will this commute affect my work-life balance?
A commute that seemed reasonable a couple of days a week can quickly become overwhelming when done daily. Long hours on the road or in transit can eat into free time, increase stress, and add unexpected expenses.
If your company’s return-to-office policy is affecting your lifestyle, working with a real estate agent can help you explore your options:
🏡 Moving Closer to Work: If you want to eliminate a long commute, an agent can help you find a home in a more convenient location.
🚆 Balancing Commute vs. Cost: You may not need to move into the city center—exploring areas with easy public transport access could be a great alternative.
💰 Selling and Relocating: If you own a home, selling in your current location may allow you to buy a more suitable property closer to work.
The decision to move is personal and depends on your job requirements, budget, and lifestyle preferences. If you’re considering relocating, a knowledgeable real estate agent can guide you through the process, helping you find a home that fits your needs.
Thinking about moving due to a return-to-office policy? Let’s discuss your options!
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