It's no secret that remote work has exploded over the past few years. For many, the flexibility of working from home meant more than just skipping the daily commute—it meant the freedom to live wherever they wanted. People traded cramped apartments in the city for larger homes in the suburbs, or even made the leap to rural areas, enjoying more space and a quieter lifestyle.

But now, some companies are calling employees back to the office. As a result, workers face tough decisions about their homes and commutes.

Commuting To Office Kansas City

How Return-to-Work Policies Are Impacting Housing

The rise of remote work allowed employees to rethink where they lived. No longer confined to expensive, crowded city centers, many found the charm of suburban neighborhoods, larger houses, and more green space. Some even relocated to more rural areas, lured by lower prices and peaceful surroundings.

But now, with the push for workers to return to in-person roles, some are feeling the strain of their new living arrangements. According to recent data from Bright MLS, more than half of remote workers would have to either move or deal with a long, exhausting commute if their job enforced a return-to-office policy.

Data - Would You Have To Move If Called Back To The Office

Here's the breakdown from the survey:

  • 11% of remote workers said they would definitely have to move.
  • 15% said they would probably need to relocate.
  • 25% said they wouldn't need to move, but their commute would be long.
  • 49% of respondents said they live close enough to the office to avoid a move altogether.

You're not alone if you're in a group that would have to face a commute or possibly relocate. The reality of commuting five days a week—when it was once just a couple of days—is starting to hit hard. And what may have been a manageable drive once or twice a week can quickly become a grind, costing more gas, time, and sanity.

As Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, pointed out: "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."

Driving Times From Surrounding Cities To Downtown Kansas City

Let's be real - Kansas City isn't the only job game in town. Many of the surrounding cities have major employers and ample job opportunities. But, if you had to commute to Kansas City, how long would it take?

Note that these times are approximate and can vary based on traffic conditions, time of day, and specific starting locations within each city.

What You Can Do If You're Thinking of Moving

If this all sounds familiar and you're considering a move, don't panic. It's a good idea to talk to the *right* real estate agent to help guide you through your options. Whether you're looking for a home closer to your office, balancing affordability with your commute time, or selling your current home and buying one in a different area, a knowledgeable agent can make the process smoother.

In today's market, there are plenty of factors to consider, and we can help you weigh the pros and cons to make the best decision for your budget and lifestyle.

Bottom Line:

If your employer calls you back to the office, and you're thinking about how your commute or location will affect your daily routine, talking to the *right* agent could be a game-changer. They can help you figure out what's possible and what makes sense for your situation. So, where do you see yourself living if you need to change your routine? Closer to the office, or do you have your sights set on something new? Reach out to an agent and start exploring your options!

Posted by Merla Turner on

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