Stephen Viscusi: Closer to Work News

Employers Pay Staff to Live Closer to Work: A New Commuting Trend

Some employers are now offering financial incentives to encourage employees to move closer to their workplace, aiming to combat the significant time and energy lost to long commutes. The average commute into New York City can exceed six hours a week, and for some, daily travel from places like Trenton takes hours each way.

Key Incentives and Benefits

Financial Bonuses: Companies are offering incentives, with workplace guru Stephen Viscusi noting that in the tri-state area, companies often provide $5,000 to $10,000 upfront on an annual basis. In some cases, bonuses can be as high as $15,000 for living within 30 minutes of the office.
Win-Win Scenario: Moving closer is viewed as beneficial for both parties. Employers benefit by getting more time out of their staff, while employees save time and reduce commuting fatigue.
Improved Productivity: Employees report that shorter commutes make them feel less tired, which potentially leads to higher productivity.
Positive PR: Offering these incentives acts as a strong public relations move for companies, showcasing them as generous and invested in their employees' well-being.