The Office Comeback: How Return-to-Work Policies Are Reshaping Where People Live
It’s no secret that remote work has transformed the way we live and work over the last few years. The flexibility to work from anywhere inspired many people to move—some trading city life for suburban space, others opting for a complete lifestyle change in rural areas.
But the tide is shifting again. A growing number of companies are requiring employees to return to the office, either part-time or full-time. And that shift is forcing many professionals to re-evaluate their living situations.
The Commute Conundrum: Stay or Move?
During the remote work boom, many workers took advantage of the opportunity to move farther from city centers—finding more space, lower costs, and a better quality of life. But now, return-to-office mandates are presenting a tough choice: endure a longer commute or consider moving again.
According to data from Bright MLS, more than half of surveyed employees said they would have to rethink their housing situation if required to return to the office.
If you’re in that position, you might be wondering:
What This Means for the Housing Market
As more workers head back to offices, we’re seeing a renewed interest in homes closer to urban centers and job hubs. Demand in suburban and exurban areas may shift as people balance affordability with convenience.
Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, puts it best:
“During the pandemic, when remote work became the norm, homebuyers were able to move farther out . . . But workers do not have the same flexibility that they used to, and some are going to have to make a tough choice if and when their employer calls them back into the office full-time.”
What’s Your Next Move?
If you’re facing this decision, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you’re considering selling, buying closer to work, or weighing your options, working with a knowledgeable real estate professional can help you make the best choice for your lifestyle and budget.
?? Let’s Connect: If a return to the office has you rethinking where you live, let’s talk about your options. What’s your ideal work-life balance, and how does your location fit into it?
?? What’s Your Take? If your employer required you to be in the office full-time, would you move, or make the commute work? Drop your thoughts in the comments!