Return-to-office mandates cost workers $561 a month—and it’s driving burnout and resentment
A 2024 survey by BetterUp revealed that employees mandated to return to the office face an average monthly expense of $561. This amount, which covers transportation, additional child and pet care, and domestic assistance, is comparable to the average monthly grocery bill for a two-person household in the U.S.
The study, conducted among 1,400 full-time U.S. employees, highlights the far-reaching consequences of return-to-office (RTO) mandates. Employees reported increased burnout and stress, higher turnover intentions, and declines in trust, engagement, and productivity. The loss of flexibility to manage personal tasks during work hours possible through remote working, combined with the stress of commuting, was identified as a significant challenge.
The financial burden of returning to the office adds another layer of dissatisfaction. Beyond the $561 monthly expense, a survey by ezCater found that workers in cities like New York spend over $5,000 annually on lunch, compounding the financial pressures of in-office mandates. These expenses represent a significant portion of household costs, further straining employees' finances and amplifying resentment.
Without careful and empathetic implementation, RTO policies risk eroding workplace culture and employees' sense of belonging. Organizations must consider the financial and personal well-being of their workforce when crafting such policies. Only by addressing these issues can companies maintain morale, engagement, and productivity while fostering a supportive and sustainable workplace environment.
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