Super commuting, the act of living in one place while physically working a long distance away, has been gaining attention in recent times. Chip Cutter, a writer from The Wall Street Journal, garnered interest when he shared his experience of working in New York City while residing in Columbus, Ohio. This trend has sparked discussions about the feasibility and challenges of super commuting, particularly due to the impact it can have on one’s finances, career development, and personal relationships.
Cutter’s experiment with super commuting did not go as planned, as he exceeded his budget by 15% due to travel expenses such as flights, hotels, and associated costs. This highlights a major obstacle faced by super commuters, as the higher costs of maintaining two residences and traveling between them can quickly add up. Generally, the idea behind super commuting is to take advantage of lower housing costs in one location while working in a more expensive city, but the reality may not always align with expectations.
Determining whether super commuting is on the rise can be challenging, as there are differing definitions and factors at play. While some scholars have pointed to the increasing prevalence of long-distance commuting due to advancements in technology and differences in housing costs between cities, other data suggest that extreme commuting within the same metropolitan area has been steadily increasing since 1990. The rise of remote and hybrid work arrangements has further fueled this trend, with many workers opting to live further away from their jobs.
A notable finding from a study by Stanford scholars Arjun Ramani and Nicholas Bloom highlighted the growth of remote work in suburban areas, termed as the “donut effect.” This shift in work patterns, where hybrid work arrangements require occasional in-office presence, may make super commuting more economically viable for some individuals. Certain occupations, such as healthcare, agriculture, and construction, already have established patterns of long-distance workers who live away from home for extended periods.
Despite the potential benefits of super commuting, there are three major challenges that individuals may face in pursuing this lifestyle. Higher costs associated with maintaining multiple residences and traveling frequently can strain finances. Additionally, the impact on career development and relationships should not be overlooked, as the need for in-person interactions and networking may be hindered by living apart from the job location. Strains on family relationships, particularly for those with spouses or children, can also be a significant concern.
In conclusion, while the concept of super commuting may sound appealing to some, it is important to consider the practical challenges and limitations involved. Factors such as higher costs, potential career implications, and strains on personal relationships should be weighed carefully before embarking on a super commuting lifestyle. Ultimately, super commuting may not be a suitable option for everyone, and individuals should carefully assess their own circumstances and priorities before making such a significant decision.
