Remote work now makes up over 15% of the total job market. And this workplace evolution is changing more than how we work. It’s forever redefining our living situations and where we move! So, exactly how does remote work affect where we choose to live? We’re covering what makes certain areas more appealing to remote workers. Plus, we’ll share some tips on how to choose the perfect spot for your new work-from-anywhere lifestyle. We’ll also explore: Is it worth relocating for a remote job? And, we’ll cover how to choose a place to live when working remotely.
Why are people moving because of remote work?
Remote work has and continues to change how and where we live. Although the shift in workforce culture began thanks to advances in technology, the pandemic significantly accelerated our adoption of remote work. Now, as the decentralization of the workforce expands, many professionals have the freedom to choose where they’d like to live. These digital workforce trends enable employees to escape jobs that once tied them to a specific location.
How does remote work affect where we live?
With the rising cost of living and remote jobs becoming more accessible, many people are finding new ways to balance their budgets while enjoying the flexibility of working from home. Most people tend to gravitate toward places where they can get the most value for their money, a better work-life balance, and more flexibility in their living situation. Lifestyle preferences also play a significant role, such as enjoying easy access to outdoor recreation or being closer to family.
Where remote workers are moving
Remote work is reshaping our communities. Based on the current remote work statistics, many remote workers have begun an urban exodus post-pandemic. A majority of the remote work population is leaving major cities, including San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles, because living there has become far too expensive. So, what cities attract remote workers? Instead, they’re heading across the country to smaller cities and suburbs such as Austin, Nashville, Denver, and Dallas.
One of the most prominent remote workforce trends is the push for larger homes, more space, privacy, and access to the great outdoors. This suburban shift is particularly popular among families, with Florida and Texas emerging as the top geographic hotspots for attracting remote workers. It looks like sun and space are at the top of everyone’s list! There’s also a smaller group of remote workers embracing the digital nomad lifestyle, choosing to travel to different places instead of settling down.
Should I move if I work remotely?
Since 2020, nearly 4.9 million Americans, or 2.4% of the population, have moved because of their remote jobs. So, is it worth relocating for a remote job? For many, the pros of moving include better affordability, an enhanced lifestyle, a designated space for a home office, and easy access to nature and family.
However, it’s important to think about your personal lifestyle preferences and career goals. Some jobs need you to be nearby sometimes, while others let you work from anywhere! With 70 percent of workers showing a preference for hybrid and flexible workplace models, many of us can choose a career or job position that fits our lifestyle.
How to choose a place to live when working remotely
Thanks to technology, virtual tours are making it easier to explore homes from anywhere. It’s all about finding a spot that fits your lifestyle and flexible work schedules. One big thing to consider is the importance of a dedicated home workspace. Many new home designs now have built-in office spaces, making it easier to stay focused without distractions.
You should also think about what you can afford while balancing your lifestyle needs. You can look for communities with parks for hiking or coffee shops for relaxing.
The future of work: How and where remote workers are moving
Based on the remote work statistics, it’s clear that there’s an ongoing shift shaping how and where we live and work. With flexible workplace models and distributed teams becoming more common, many people are realizing they can live anywhere, opening new opportunities for relocation, where lifestyle-driven home-buying decisions become a priority.
Now, instead of being tied to a specific location, remote workers have the freedom to find places that match their lifestyle. Remote work migration patterns tend to lean away from large cities and toward suburbs or vacation destinations, such as a sunny beach or a quiet mountain town. The emphasis on lifestyle alignment is guiding remote workers’ decisions on moving now more than ever before.