Kaitlin Jorgenson has found happiness in her supercommuting lifestyle, traveling 544 miles by plane every other week from Charlotte, North Carolina to work at a salon in New York City. She made the move to Charlotte after realizing she wanted to be closer to nature and have more space without the high costs associated with living in Manhattan. Instead of giving up her career in New York, she now spends hours in the air to save money while maintaining her business.
The decision to supercommute instead of paying exorbitant rent in New York was a financial one for Jorgenson. By comparing the costs of renting an apartment in New Jersey or New York versus commuting from Charlotte with her boyfriend, she estimated savings of at least $2,000 per month. Her boss in New York supported her move, allowing her to work every other week from Wednesday to Friday. The costs of her supercommute, including flights, accommodation, transportation, and food, add up to about $1,000 a month, significantly less than what she would have spent on living expenses in New York.
Supercommuting has become more popular since the pandemic, as people relocate to smaller cities and suburbs while companies implement flexible work models. Jorgenson believes that supercommuting is a viable solution for those who want the opportunities of a big city without the high cost of living. This lifestyle allows professionals to balance their career goals with personal preferences, creating a healthier work-life balance. By embracing supercommuting, Jorgenson has found a way to continue her career in New York while enjoying the benefits of living in Charlotte.
Jorgenson’s day-to-day routine as a supercommuter involves early morning flights to New York, where she works long hours at the salon before returning to Charlotte. Despite the challenges of occasional flight delays, she has managed to maintain a successful career in both cities, seeing clients and making enough money to cover her commuting costs within a day of work. During her off weeks in Charlotte, she works part-time at a local salon, offering flexibility in her schedule to pursue other interests and hobbies.
One year into her supercommuting lifestyle, Jorgenson has found more free time and a better work-life balance than before. She appreciates the separation between work in New York and her personal life in Charlotte, allowing her to dedicate time to new clients, travel, and hobbies. While some may view leaving New York as a failure, Jorgenson sees it as a way to prioritize her quality of life. Despite the challenges and sacrifices of supercommuting, she feels happier and more fulfilled in her current lifestyle.
Overall, Jorgenson’s supercommuting experience showcases the possibilities of creating a successful career while prioritizing personal preferences and well-being. By making strategic decisions based on financial considerations and lifestyle goals, she has been able to find a unique balance that works for her. Supercommuting may not be the conventional path to career success, but for individuals like Jorgenson who value happiness and fulfillment, it offers a viable alternative that allows for professional growth and personal satisfaction.
