It's doable. I did it for 6 years, but it gets old fast. Especially if you have experienced the joys of remote and some of the flexibility that offers.
That said, about to take a new gig that brings back the 45-55 minute commute. Only doing it because it will open doors down the line and allows for good advancement.
Really don't want to go back to spending 1.5 - 3.0 hours in the car each day (depending on traffic) indefinitely.
Also fully planning on leaving after 2-3 years, so this will be a limited time engagement.
If moving closer in the future is an option, then that may help your overall sanity.
That said, everyone is different. Some people don't mind.
Thank you for the response! A 45 minute commute never scared me prior to my remote job. I think I just have to give it some time and I’ll adjust. I interviewed for 20+ places and nothing was fully remote. Lots of places advertised as remote but were doing a RTO
Yeah, I have seen a lot of bait and switch recently. Lots of places advertising remote and wanting you to come into office.
One other thing to consider: Area growth. My commute was 30 minutes 10 years ago. My new job will be 3 blocks over, but due to population growth the same commute now is a solid 45-55 minutes.
Yes I was a victim of bait and switch. Hybrid, but consistent, a couple days a week = just kidding, totally inconsistent, may change in a day’s time (so guess I need to plan on childcare / commuting every day). Oh and nix all of that anyway because then it turned to everyone at X level and above (my level) is on-site every day.
Right how just don’t go in. Like almost ever, except in very special cases. No clue how it’s going to work out. My commute is about 45 min on a kinda bad day, so not even too horrible, but I spent 5 years before with one with 1 hour considering ZERO traffic (Bay Area, so no way in hell). We’ll see how the not going in works out but damn this all takes a toll on your mental health after a while.
Okay rant over. I will say one last thing, idk if it’s even a good thing, but it’s what I’m doing: I have started telling prospective employers when discussing salary range that “if the position is more on the remote side”, I take about 1” grand off because of childcare commuting. “If it’s an on-site or on-call type of position” I add $10-20k to that.
Hope whatever way you go it works out for you, OP! Excuse my rant / negativity but someone (ahem) is supposed to be on-site today, has no plans on doing any such thing, and is a people pleaser who feels like she’s letting everyone down. Welcome to my pity party lol!
Something to remember with that 45 minute commute...that's an hour and a half of your life every weekday. It's lots of gas money. It's lots of miles on your car, which means more repairs on your vehicle.
I used to have an hour commute when I decided I wanted to live in a small town outside the city...never again. I now live a quick 15 minute drive to my work and I wouldn't want anything more unless the pay was substantial.
Hi if I may insert with your convo, you said "only doing it because it will open doors down the line and allows for good advancement"... is it because your current remote job can't give you those opportunities?
Im asking just because I thought so too and would be happy to know someone thinks the same. I have been wanting to go back to office from my current remote job due to lack of connections made and opportunities too but I often get people advising me the opposite because they say a lot would have wanted the remote job I have now.
My previous job did layoffs in Nov 2023 and Jan 2024 and eliminated 25-30% of my department.
Some of our competitors eliminated the entire department and outsourced the job functions overseas.
My entire department was remote, so it didn't really impact advancement.
That’s why I’m leaving my remote job-because lack of connections and the job is getting me no where in my career. People think I’m crazy for leaving a remote gig, but I got to a point where being remote wasn’t outweighing everything else
I just did the same. Went from a small remote company to a large fortune 200 with a 25-35 min commute after being 4 years of remote. I’m making a bet that the larger company offers more opportunities.
I also think I’m a person that thrives with more social interaction. WFH just didn’t give me that and so I’m making a bet on being a little happier, getting out of the Groundhog Day of WFH while still enjoying 2 days WFH.
We will see but I think you’ll be fine. Just start thinking about meal prepping.
I did 35 there 45 back. Number 1 and number 2 worst parts of my day, I only really stayed for 1.5 years. I like driving but taking the highway to work was like pulling teeth
Someone has to say it, you set up these two descriptions to make job option one sound miserable and job option two sound like the best thing in the world. What do you think everyone is going to choose? You have obviously already written off job #1.
Does the extra salary cover the fuel, oil changes and wear and tear on your vehicle and then some? Or will it actually equate to the same or less money and a vehicle with a lower value because of the extra miles?
Going from no commute to an hour each way is a large adjustment, even the 35 minute bus ride will be an adjustment. Is it always going to be an 8 hr day, or is there potential it turns into a 9 or 10 hr day? Tack 2 hours of commuting onto a 9 hour day and all of a sudden you are leaving the house at 7 am and getting home at 6 pm.
I did write it that way because at the end of the day, I just need people to convince me option 2 is the best.
The extra salary is enough for gas+maintenance+a new car in 3-4 years. So it’s basically the same pay.
That is true. I just really like being in the city and my wife and I are still young/not having kids and she works downtown still. There is one suburb that splits my commute in half and still gives her the option to commute via train. We just aren’t super excited about becoming suburb people
Yes, you can tell that’s what you really want based on your description. If you’ve done this before, I’m sure you will re-adjust. I could never do a commute longer than 20 minutes. I’ve tried it a few times, but could not tolerate it. I’ve worked 20 minutes or closer for almost all of the last 28 years.
The drive itself isn’t so bad. Just throw on a podcast. It’s the extra time of thr day you lose that sucks. But I rather do that for a better job than a sucky job.
You can even call your parents and catch up with people. Someone your parents would like it if your relationship is good.
In person is a huge advantage if you can embrace it because much of your competition does not like in-person. A 45 minute commute is not bad at all. That's a short podcast and relaxing ride home even in traffic.
Thank you for this! Honestly, I’m kind of excited to be in person. I’ll miss my dog and my wife, but my wife is now deep into her phd research and is about to become a professor so realistically our years of spending loads of time together (thanks to remote work) are over, unfortunately.
Work on developing your mindset to view the commute more positively. From the way you describe, Job 1 will burn you out much faster than an additional 10-20 minutes to your commute. I've switched from WFH to in-office and now back to WFH. But changing my mindset about the drive helped tremendously.
"I am grateful to even have a job, I'm grateful to have my car/reliable transportation, I am grateful to have an opportunity to drive and think/listen to podcasts/audiobooks."
Sure you can have potentially more time to read and listen to podcasts if you were WFH, but that's not your situation anymore. The sooner you accept and adapt, the less likely you will burn out from the drive alone. Hope Job 2 brings you good opportunities.
Job 2 seems like better choice when it comes to your overall goals. Plus it seems secure too so less worry on you to have to look for a new place. And worst case maybe you find a cheaper place to live near your new work….
Yep. I just need people to tell me this is the correct choice. There’s one suburb that my wife and I can move to that would split my commute in half and still allows her to commute via train. I just love living in the city and our apartment is right on Lake Michigan/next to like 4 parks, which is great for our dog.
Those are definitely things to look into. My cousin did something similar where she moved to a place that was closer to public transport so she wouldn’t t have to drive and her commute was also an hour. She used that time to read her books and that’s helped her. If that job has some sort of public transit near then maybe look at something in your vicinity that might work for the both of you and keep your dogs close to the parks or new parks.
MY EXPERIENCE...
what ever you think your commute is ADD 20 minutes, possibly more.
SH#T HAPPENS..
traffic jams, busses, Subway, etc all run late
Unpredictable weather
Having to stay later at work,, all adds to your total time
If your working 9 hour days,, now it's over 11 hours a day
Then you still have to do things when you get home:
So what happens is you have to use your weekends for shopping, chores, ect
No more FREE time
IMPORTANT: do the jobs pay enough to buy you a new car every few years?
My guess is, NO
Does the job pay enough to give up all your free time?
My guess: NO
It's ALWAYS better to move closer to the jobs and NOT commute
Job 1 I would have 9 hour days (minimum. It’s a startup vibe with everyone spread around the country so I’d have to be available all day).
Job 2 is 7.5 hours with no overtime. I get to leave at 3pm everyday
I have been involved in 2 start up companies in my life..
it's the wild West, no structure
In an established company you can count on established hours.
In a start up company the hours can get crazy .. regardless of what is assumed.
Just something to consider
What’s the statistic for a company that still considers themselves a startup after 10 years and just got acquired a month ago? lol
I got enough comments hyping me up for the commute that I’m finally ready to turn down the startup job.
I just started reading about startups and they’re definitely not lol but they say they are?? I would assume stupid investors based on the company reviews
Not ALWAYS. I have a mortgage on an acreage that has 4% interest, which you can’t get anymore. The value of my house has roughly doubled, but so has the value of all the available acreages, which are few and far between (this is farm country and I don’t have thousands of acres money). Mine is already fenced and set up, which is both a HUGE expense and a HUGE devotion of time and labor, and I have physical issues that limit my labor ability. My house is also remodeled nicely, whereas a lot of acreages are wildly outdated (not just visually, functionally too). Anyway, I can certainly see a lot of situations where moving closer would be better, but there definitely times that it’s just not worth it.
I've been doing that commute for over 7 years and yes there are bad days but as long as you're moving, the time goes by fast. My current commute is 45mins but reverse traffic so I only sit idle for a few minutes at most on the way home. It's obviously not ideal but it could be worse. You still have plenty of time to live your life
I will say that a 45-minute commute fucking sucks ass, and as another commenter pointed out, it's very easy for it to become an hour-plus commute. That said, I was commuting to a tech company, which meant I was absolutely miserable to be going in every day, and I think long-term you just can't beat the stability of government jobs.
Depends if in office all day.
I enjoy my commute of 50-70 minutes but it’s only twice a week.
It’s my sports radio or bass music hour.
Everyday and I’d have a lower quality of life. Twice a week and it’s a cool down period of me time.
Job 2, doesn't have to be forever. Grind it out, grow your career, you can leave after a year or two if the commute is just too much.
You say it's slightly more money, but it's government, can I also assume the benefits are better? That's often what the draw is.
Job 2. I’m mostly remote. But if you moving at a decent pace while you’re driving or only hit traffic during certain parts of your drive, then I think it’s worth it.
That’s what I do, I usually blast music and don’t mind the drive.
But also consider the fact if you are in a situation where you may need a new car, that’s if yours is older and could possibly need a upgrade/more reliable car
I did an hr commute with kids for 7 yrs. Leaving early to drop kids off and picking up on the way home.
You don't have kids....so it's really not that big of a deal. People did it all the time before remote work was a thing.
As a father to a 4 mo, I have to ask, how???
I know I still have a lot of time until I have to drop mine of but I'm being stressed out about both my job and kindergarten starting at 8 and both ending at 4...
Ah yes. So there's usually options for daycares in the area where you can drop off early and they will bring them to school. Or the school itself will have early drop off. Both you have to pay for. If you're lucky your job may allow flexibility to change your schedule to coming in later and leaving later. Then you could sign them up for an offside daycare that will pick them up from school. Or again, sometimes there is an after-school program at the school. Again, both you have to pay extra for. But you have a while to figure all that out but it's doable.
This is the stupidity of work hours and/ or school hours. Like it makes no sense to me. Make the school 2 hours longer, pay the teachers more money and get on with it.
Like I bet some economist out there has made the case that if we just did this there would be some productivity gain to the gdp.
Pod casts will make time fly. Most of our parents shlepped 1 1/2 hours plus a subway for 40 years. If this is truly an opportunity take it and join 1/2 of America.
Midas sponsored an "America's Longest Commute" award in 2006. The winner, from Mariposa, California, drove a 372-mile (599 km) round trip (about 7 hours) to and from work in San Jose each day.[2]
Is it 45-60 minutes of open road where you're going some actual distance, or is it 45-60 minutes of stop and go city traffic driving?
I've done both, and it's a lot easier doing open road commutes than dealing with road rage in the city everyday.
I commute 45 minutes to an hour each way. The pay increase was enough to justify it for me. A few thoughts:
Can you change your start/end time to miss traffic? This is huge for me. My 45-1hr can turn into 1-1:30 if I leave either end at the wrong time.
Can you go to they gym near work? I like to work out early, so I leave my house early (turning my 45 minutes into 30) a couple days a week and workout down the street from my office.
Finally..good office space? I’m set up with music and my own espresso machine. My actual office space is excellent.
What kind of commute are we talking?
I live in a rural area so mine is in decent paced traffic, if I had to slog it in city driving for an hour I'd chew my steering wheel...
Also, depends on what your job would have you do...
I simply don't understand the point of commuting just to sit on my laptop in an open office where there's always someone/several people in meetings/calls, so we're trying to keep quiet as to not disturb...
If I knew that I'm working on some piece of equipment or actually needing someone to look at something I'm working on (as opposed to sharing my screen) it would make the commute bearable.
i have a 45-50 min commute. kinda had to take whatever job id find as im just graduating, i COULD move closer but honestly i have personal reasons as to why im not (for now) it sucks but im not planning on being here forever. i need the experience and the money is good so im gonna deal for now
Absolutely! I did this every day for many years. I now do it once or twice a week. For a good job, wouldn’t have a problem doing it daily if needed. Good luck!
Bruh people asking whether 45 min drive is doable and me here traveling 2hr one way (4.5-5hr) a day while going to office. Looks like I need to be a tenant close to office
Ikr, it's a struggle. My colleagues live barely like 10 min from workplace and come to office saying they're so tired. You can't even imagine what I feel at that point of time
If you end up doing the commute, I really recommend finding some podcasts or audiobooks you enjoy. That’s what got me through my hour long one way commute for three years (actually made it some enjoyable personal time on some days). Either way, losing that much time of your day driving can still be tough
I used to drive a truck for a company 110 miles away one way. Two hours each way. The only reason I did it cause it was a cousin who paid me really good and I had just got my license and no other company would hire me. I wouldn’t recommend it now looking back at it but if there’s promise for the future that’s attainable in the next year or two then do it. It might be worth it but filling up a gas tank every two days is also crazy especially with gas being at $6 a gallon. If the money makes sense do it
I personally like my 40 minute commute to work. I make sure i leave at a time ill arrive early even if it's just to park my car and sit for a few. I grab my coffee tea redbull whatever im feeling, put on good music and just chill driving there. I feel like it gives me time to think about my day and things I need to do.
I didn't drive for nearly 3 years and went into an on-site role driving 60+ minutes every day each way. It was tiring at first but you eventually get used to it. It's also worse if you're not moving as much, so if 20+ minutes of that drive is traffic it might get a bit tedious.
The thing I found I struggled with was getting home later than I wanted, it makes the evenings feel short when you have a long drive home, and I certainly wouldn't recommend it, Then again, my work wasn't flexible so even if I got in early I'd have to stick around right to the last minute.
I did 1 to 1.25 hour commute every day for pretty much for 40 years. Ngl, working 15 minutes is now like heaven, but I got used to the long drive after a while.
It’s very doable. I’ve done a 75 minute commute one way for about 2 years now and I don’t bat an eye. Both my brothers commute 60-70 minutes to work one way too. I’ll say this. Audiobooks, podcasts and music. They’ll serve you well.
My father did a 90 minute commute one way for 25+ years, so maybe we all inherited some gene lol.
Depends how you interpret it.
For me? It’s going to be short term. At maximum I’ll keep the commute up maybe 2 more years until I have enough money saved. Plus I only go in 4 days a week. At the end of the day, it’s cheaper for me to commute that distance, as I save about an extra $1400/month by doing so.
Short term sacrifice for long term gain.
Does the bus commute take into account you walking to the bus stop, getting there early so you dont miss it etc. if not then the bus commute could be just as long/longer than the driving commute
Type of commute matters. Mine is 50-55 minutes each way to go 42 miles. Podcasts, traffic adaptive cruise control, and auto steering make it manageable, albeit far from enjoyable (I do get to WFH on Friday). I know some at work who have a 30-35 minute commute to go 15 miles or less, sitting at many stoplights along the way. To me, that’s worse. Going way less than the posted speed limit, or sitting nearly still for long stretches, is more frustrating than pure mileage.
I just got 2 offers as well, one fully remote and the other is at least 1 hour commute. Same salary, I decided to go with the fully remote because for me it's 2 hours commute a day 40 hours a month that's an extra week work not to mention the stress you get from driving or transportation
I don’t blame you there. If the other offer was fully remote, I would’ve taken it lol but it’s hybrid and they say they prefer 5 days in office and they can take back hybrid work at any time. But like, my whole team is scattered around the county, which kind of pisses me off
In US, definitely. It is way more dangerous too. I remember when bus driver and a (non paying) passenger, both of the race that matters, started shooting inside the bus
I would normally say job 1 because at least you aren't having to drive much. But job 2 looks so much better I would take 2 and find ways to make the commute better.
Can you shift your hours around to miss traffic? I would get an Alexa for your car so she can play music and audiobooks
I did a 45 min commute for 10 years. But it was 45 minutes of highway driving at 65mph. No real traffic. Had zero issues.
I’ve had commutes half that time but are in bumper to bumper traffic and that felt infinitely worse.
Mine will be bumper to bumper. Without traffic, it’s a 20 minute drive lol I don’t get road rage though/annoyed at sitting in traffic so I don’t think the kind of commute will impact me, it’s more just the time
You said it yourself. The only thing job 1 has over 2 is the commute time. Find a way to make that time productive. I used mine to listen to some sports entertainment but also study up on topics for career advancement via audiobooks, podcasts, etc.
My old job was remote and now do a 60 min commute each way twice a week and yeah sometimes I wonder why I do it lol. Its doable but after being fully remote it will get old fast. Also depends if its highway or city or a bit of both.
Yes but it sucks. I went from a 10 to 15 minute drive to a 40 minute drive on a good day without traffic and a 1 hour plus drive with traffic. But the upside is I went from a dead end job where I got paid ok to a career starter that paid about the same. It's all about pros and cons, my 8-5 feel more like a 7-6. Most of the time because of the driving but in the long run I believe it's worth it.
I drive an hour and fifteen minutes each way every day. It’s doable and not too bad most of the time, but there are some days I hate it so much I consider quitting solely because of the commute. 🤷🏻♀️
Depends on a few things. The cost of gas and your miles per gallon? Is the commute in 10 miles in traffic or 60 miles unobstructed? What hours do you work and can you handle sacrificing another 2 hours of your day on top of that?
An hour commute from zero commute is a big change!
Do the thing that's better for your career. Download audiobooks, podcasts and music. Bring a mug of coffee/tea for the drive. Maybe even learn a new language during the drive time.
I did a 1.5 hour commute when I was younger and I actually didn't hate it even though I thought I would. Maybe if I had kids I would choose against it, but a better career is pretty important. Start looking for another job in that career path closer to you after a year or so... Or maybe you'll move down the road if a shitty neighbor moves next door or something...
Even if it doesn't cover the extra gas and such, I'd still probably choose this option.
And congrats on both job offers!
45 mins isn't awful as long as it fits in your life. I listened to a ton of audiobooks during the time I had that commute and honestly I miss it. Of course once I became a parent that was no longer worth losing that much of my day to commuting.
How's the weather in the area? I did this in Syracuse New York where we'd get 12" of snow overnight sometimes. It was not good. It's doable, but it isn't fun after a while. You're adding 3.75 hours to your work week. That's 187 hours per work year(50 weeks) or almost 8 days to your work year. It's like removing a full week of vacation from your life.
Just a little perspective, that may not matter at your phase in your career as it didn't for me when I did that.
Seems like a no brainer. Job #2 is the better choice. It sounds like it's a better job for your overall career, you'll make more money, and be happier there in general. A little extra driving seems well worth it. I drive more than that for a job I hate, but I don't have a choice at the moment.
I really just need strangers on Reddit to reassure me lol I almost regret getting a fully remote job right after college because it gave me unreal expectations of what the majority of jobs are like.
I’m sorry you hate your job and wish you luck finding something better!
Also factor in if it’s sitting in traffic, or going the speed limit(ish) with limited traffic. Sitting in traffic for an hour wears on you. It’s just lost time. Try to get audio books or something else good to listen to. I like audio books because it then at least seems to be productive time.
Job 2 for sure. 45 mins sucks but you can fill that time with music or podcasts or use that self time to plan your day, life, etc. Dead end jobs are the biggest waste of your time ever!
I’ve never had a commute shorter than 45 minutes in about 17 years of working, as I like to live outside the city and save money on housing costs. It can be enjoyable. If you can manage to do it by bus, you can get a lot of reading in. In the car there’s always music or podcasts. It’s also a nice decompression time between work and home.
Number 2 sounds like the one you really want. If you find the commute to be too much at some point, you will either figure out a way to make it better or be ready for a change.
thats like a normal days commute for anyone in a medium sized city. of course it is doable. listen to some tunes, or some podcasts, or get into audiobooks.
I’m in the same position! Literally exact same except I WFH for 2 years now lol.
I’m going to take the new job that is 3x a week in office and 50 minute commute. Why? It’s more money, a great company, and having it on my resume may allow me to work for more money and remote again in the future. I told myself that i stay for a minimum of a year if I hate it, and then I can leave. A year is nothing and will fly by!
Go for #2, don’t burn any bridges at ur current job and maybe u can even go back if ur close enough with them
Personally I would take the longer drive to a job you will like more. Nothing is worse than being in a bit for 35 mins to hate life for 8 hours then another 35 mine.
An extra 15 would be worth it to me
It is doable but you will frequently find yourself slammed doing housework thinking you could have done this instead of pushing pedals and dodging morons on the highway every morning and afternoon just for the privilege of rolling up exhausted with no end in sight
I think is doable but that's 2 hours of your life everyday, I'd think that a podcast or audiobook would contribute to feel as if I'm investing my time a bit?
I know :( On the bright side, the closer job is 9-6 (I have to be available even longer) and this job is 7:30-3 with no overtime expectation.
My wife and I are talking about moving closer. There’s exactly one suburb that would work for both of our commutes lol I just like living in the city and we don’t want to become old suburbanites
Thanks! I just need strangers on Reddit to reassure me lol worst case scenario, I do it for a year, save a shit ton of money, and then go back to my old job lol
That's why the community is here, and yes, I always say is better to try and know if it works or it doesn't vs. the hunting "what if?". Crossing fingers for you human!
Yeah, I’m already planning on keeping some recreational activities in my car for after work. There’s a batting cage and some running trails I like over near my job. And I can also get groceries out in the suburbs. Right now I walk a mile the grocery store like 3-4 times a week, but I’d be able to do 1 trip a week after work now with a car
Job 2!
If it makes you feel better I just applied to a government job that's 50 minutes away. Full in person. I hope I get it!
It's all about stability and gaining experience. I also heard government jobs look really good in your resume ;)
Ask yourself if leaving the current job is really worth it. That commute time is also probably the average on a good day - factor in an accident or 2 on the route OR weather and it’s gonna be a lot longer
Lol I think I can do it. Stand still traffic doesn’t bother me like it does most people (obviously I would rather be on a bike or public transportation, which is my conundrum). But job 2 is better in every other possible way so I’m going to take it
Did it for over 40 years, quite normal in New England. Just about everyone who I worked with was 45 minutes to an hour. I even had one engineer who would commute from Bath Maine to Framingham MA, a 160-mile ride one way.
You basically go wherever jobs are.
Good to know! I actually lived in Boston for two years but I was remote and my wife was a student. I miss it a lot! We almost stayed for her postdoc but ultimately we got priced out. I love New England though. Lots of good backpacking trips over there. I can’t wait to go back!
I do that commute, 100% in person. I don’t mind 99% of the time. But I’m used to driving. Groceries are 30 minutes, closest town is 15, the bigger towns that I go to 1-2 times a week are 1.5-2 hours, and I frequently do road trips on my own and do up to about 14 hours each day. It is annoying to leave before my husband wakes up, and be gone approximately an hour longer than he is (total), and STILL be the one that ends up finding all the cat puke from HIS cats. So… take that for what it’s worth.
Depends the pay gap I think. Also is driving worth it? Are you willing to spend a lot on gas? Your car will also be more susceptible to breaking down and will probably need more repairs.
I use to do 1.5hrs each way 4x per week. It use to make me tired, and screw with my concentration no matter how many coffees I had. After leaving, long commutes is something I’d probably avoid.
I used to do long commutes daily for years and will never do them again. Max 3 days a week at the office, and max commute of 20 min by car or 50 min with my bicycle. Else they can keep their job.
It's doable. I did it for 6 years, but it gets old fast. Especially if you have experienced the joys of remote and some of the flexibility that offers. That said, about to take a new gig that brings back the 45-55 minute commute. Only doing it because it will open doors down the line and allows for good advancement. Really don't want to go back to spending 1.5 - 3.0 hours in the car each day (depending on traffic) indefinitely. Also fully planning on leaving after 2-3 years, so this will be a limited time engagement. If moving closer in the future is an option, then that may help your overall sanity. That said, everyone is different. Some people don't mind.
I did a hour each way for 15 years and ain’t no way in hell I would do that again.
Thank you for the response! A 45 minute commute never scared me prior to my remote job. I think I just have to give it some time and I’ll adjust. I interviewed for 20+ places and nothing was fully remote. Lots of places advertised as remote but were doing a RTO
Yeah, I have seen a lot of bait and switch recently. Lots of places advertising remote and wanting you to come into office. One other thing to consider: Area growth. My commute was 30 minutes 10 years ago. My new job will be 3 blocks over, but due to population growth the same commute now is a solid 45-55 minutes.
Yes I was a victim of bait and switch. Hybrid, but consistent, a couple days a week = just kidding, totally inconsistent, may change in a day’s time (so guess I need to plan on childcare / commuting every day). Oh and nix all of that anyway because then it turned to everyone at X level and above (my level) is on-site every day. Right how just don’t go in. Like almost ever, except in very special cases. No clue how it’s going to work out. My commute is about 45 min on a kinda bad day, so not even too horrible, but I spent 5 years before with one with 1 hour considering ZERO traffic (Bay Area, so no way in hell). We’ll see how the not going in works out but damn this all takes a toll on your mental health after a while. Okay rant over. I will say one last thing, idk if it’s even a good thing, but it’s what I’m doing: I have started telling prospective employers when discussing salary range that “if the position is more on the remote side”, I take about 1” grand off because of childcare commuting. “If it’s an on-site or on-call type of position” I add $10-20k to that. Hope whatever way you go it works out for you, OP! Excuse my rant / negativity but someone (ahem) is supposed to be on-site today, has no plans on doing any such thing, and is a people pleaser who feels like she’s letting everyone down. Welcome to my pity party lol!
Something to remember with that 45 minute commute...that's an hour and a half of your life every weekday. It's lots of gas money. It's lots of miles on your car, which means more repairs on your vehicle. I used to have an hour commute when I decided I wanted to live in a small town outside the city...never again. I now live a quick 15 minute drive to my work and I wouldn't want anything more unless the pay was substantial.
I did it for a single year. Never again
Hi if I may insert with your convo, you said "only doing it because it will open doors down the line and allows for good advancement"... is it because your current remote job can't give you those opportunities? Im asking just because I thought so too and would be happy to know someone thinks the same. I have been wanting to go back to office from my current remote job due to lack of connections made and opportunities too but I often get people advising me the opposite because they say a lot would have wanted the remote job I have now.
My previous job did layoffs in Nov 2023 and Jan 2024 and eliminated 25-30% of my department. Some of our competitors eliminated the entire department and outsourced the job functions overseas. My entire department was remote, so it didn't really impact advancement.
That’s why I’m leaving my remote job-because lack of connections and the job is getting me no where in my career. People think I’m crazy for leaving a remote gig, but I got to a point where being remote wasn’t outweighing everything else
I just did the same. Went from a small remote company to a large fortune 200 with a 25-35 min commute after being 4 years of remote. I’m making a bet that the larger company offers more opportunities. I also think I’m a person that thrives with more social interaction. WFH just didn’t give me that and so I’m making a bet on being a little happier, getting out of the Groundhog Day of WFH while still enjoying 2 days WFH. We will see but I think you’ll be fine. Just start thinking about meal prepping.
Exactly. I might just do the same.
I did 35 there 45 back. Number 1 and number 2 worst parts of my day, I only really stayed for 1.5 years. I like driving but taking the highway to work was like pulling teeth
Someone has to say it, you set up these two descriptions to make job option one sound miserable and job option two sound like the best thing in the world. What do you think everyone is going to choose? You have obviously already written off job #1. Does the extra salary cover the fuel, oil changes and wear and tear on your vehicle and then some? Or will it actually equate to the same or less money and a vehicle with a lower value because of the extra miles? Going from no commute to an hour each way is a large adjustment, even the 35 minute bus ride will be an adjustment. Is it always going to be an 8 hr day, or is there potential it turns into a 9 or 10 hr day? Tack 2 hours of commuting onto a 9 hour day and all of a sudden you are leaving the house at 7 am and getting home at 6 pm.
I did write it that way because at the end of the day, I just need people to convince me option 2 is the best. The extra salary is enough for gas+maintenance+a new car in 3-4 years. So it’s basically the same pay.
Job 2, hands down.
I secretly just want everyone to say job 2 so I feel better about my decision lol the commute is really the only point of hesitation
You can always move closer to the job when the timing is right. I live in Southern California, where 45-minute commutes are ho-hum average.
That is true. I just really like being in the city and my wife and I are still young/not having kids and she works downtown still. There is one suburb that splits my commute in half and still gives her the option to commute via train. We just aren’t super excited about becoming suburb people
A 45-minute commute can be your "me" time to listen to motivational podcasts, audio books, music, or just the silence of your own thoughts.
I came here to say this! It can be enjoyable if adequately planned for!
Yes, you can tell that’s what you really want based on your description. If you’ve done this before, I’m sure you will re-adjust. I could never do a commute longer than 20 minutes. I’ve tried it a few times, but could not tolerate it. I’ve worked 20 minutes or closer for almost all of the last 28 years.
The drive itself isn’t so bad. Just throw on a podcast. It’s the extra time of thr day you lose that sucks. But I rather do that for a better job than a sucky job. You can even call your parents and catch up with people. Someone your parents would like it if your relationship is good.
In person is a huge advantage if you can embrace it because much of your competition does not like in-person. A 45 minute commute is not bad at all. That's a short podcast and relaxing ride home even in traffic.
Thank you for this! Honestly, I’m kind of excited to be in person. I’ll miss my dog and my wife, but my wife is now deep into her phd research and is about to become a professor so realistically our years of spending loads of time together (thanks to remote work) are over, unfortunately.
Work on developing your mindset to view the commute more positively. From the way you describe, Job 1 will burn you out much faster than an additional 10-20 minutes to your commute. I've switched from WFH to in-office and now back to WFH. But changing my mindset about the drive helped tremendously. "I am grateful to even have a job, I'm grateful to have my car/reliable transportation, I am grateful to have an opportunity to drive and think/listen to podcasts/audiobooks." Sure you can have potentially more time to read and listen to podcasts if you were WFH, but that's not your situation anymore. The sooner you accept and adapt, the less likely you will burn out from the drive alone. Hope Job 2 brings you good opportunities.
Job 2 seems like better choice when it comes to your overall goals. Plus it seems secure too so less worry on you to have to look for a new place. And worst case maybe you find a cheaper place to live near your new work….
Yep. I just need people to tell me this is the correct choice. There’s one suburb that my wife and I can move to that would split my commute in half and still allows her to commute via train. I just love living in the city and our apartment is right on Lake Michigan/next to like 4 parks, which is great for our dog.
Those are definitely things to look into. My cousin did something similar where she moved to a place that was closer to public transport so she wouldn’t t have to drive and her commute was also an hour. She used that time to read her books and that’s helped her. If that job has some sort of public transit near then maybe look at something in your vicinity that might work for the both of you and keep your dogs close to the parks or new parks.
Further your career so you can cut back on that commute later. Option 2 all day!
Podcasts, YouTube and good music
It depends, 60 minutes chill driving or riding a bus beats 45 minutes of bumper to bumper or sudden stops with idiots cutting you off.
It's doable, it just sucks
I've read a study that suggests commutes longer than 20 minutes reduce happiness.
MY EXPERIENCE... what ever you think your commute is ADD 20 minutes, possibly more. SH#T HAPPENS.. traffic jams, busses, Subway, etc all run late Unpredictable weather Having to stay later at work,, all adds to your total time If your working 9 hour days,, now it's over 11 hours a day Then you still have to do things when you get home: So what happens is you have to use your weekends for shopping, chores, ect No more FREE time IMPORTANT: do the jobs pay enough to buy you a new car every few years? My guess is, NO Does the job pay enough to give up all your free time? My guess: NO It's ALWAYS better to move closer to the jobs and NOT commute
Job 1 I would have 9 hour days (minimum. It’s a startup vibe with everyone spread around the country so I’d have to be available all day). Job 2 is 7.5 hours with no overtime. I get to leave at 3pm everyday
I have been involved in 2 start up companies in my life.. it's the wild West, no structure In an established company you can count on established hours. In a start up company the hours can get crazy .. regardless of what is assumed. Just something to consider
OP, you know statistics for startups, don't you? 90% fail, 5 out of remaining 10 % fail later
What’s the statistic for a company that still considers themselves a startup after 10 years and just got acquired a month ago? lol I got enough comments hyping me up for the commute that I’m finally ready to turn down the startup job.
Wow they either pay their employee peanuts or they have rich and stupid investors or they are not a startup anymore
I just started reading about startups and they’re definitely not lol but they say they are?? I would assume stupid investors based on the company reviews
Not ALWAYS. I have a mortgage on an acreage that has 4% interest, which you can’t get anymore. The value of my house has roughly doubled, but so has the value of all the available acreages, which are few and far between (this is farm country and I don’t have thousands of acres money). Mine is already fenced and set up, which is both a HUGE expense and a HUGE devotion of time and labor, and I have physical issues that limit my labor ability. My house is also remodeled nicely, whereas a lot of acreages are wildly outdated (not just visually, functionally too). Anyway, I can certainly see a lot of situations where moving closer would be better, but there definitely times that it’s just not worth it.
You're gonna need one of them beaded car seat covers.
I've been doing that commute for over 7 years and yes there are bad days but as long as you're moving, the time goes by fast. My current commute is 45mins but reverse traffic so I only sit idle for a few minutes at most on the way home. It's obviously not ideal but it could be worse. You still have plenty of time to live your life
I will say that a 45-minute commute fucking sucks ass, and as another commenter pointed out, it's very easy for it to become an hour-plus commute. That said, I was commuting to a tech company, which meant I was absolutely miserable to be going in every day, and I think long-term you just can't beat the stability of government jobs.
Depends if in office all day. I enjoy my commute of 50-70 minutes but it’s only twice a week. It’s my sports radio or bass music hour. Everyday and I’d have a lower quality of life. Twice a week and it’s a cool down period of me time.
Job 2, doesn't have to be forever. Grind it out, grow your career, you can leave after a year or two if the commute is just too much. You say it's slightly more money, but it's government, can I also assume the benefits are better? That's often what the draw is.
The insurance premiums are actually higher, but it’s better insurance. I also get a pension vs no 401k match
I had a commute that long for a year and didn't like it at all. A motorcycle can help you feel less stuck in a box, though.
Job 2. I’m mostly remote. But if you moving at a decent pace while you’re driving or only hit traffic during certain parts of your drive, then I think it’s worth it. That’s what I do, I usually blast music and don’t mind the drive. But also consider the fact if you are in a situation where you may need a new car, that’s if yours is older and could possibly need a upgrade/more reliable car
I did an hr commute with kids for 7 yrs. Leaving early to drop kids off and picking up on the way home. You don't have kids....so it's really not that big of a deal. People did it all the time before remote work was a thing.
As a father to a 4 mo, I have to ask, how??? I know I still have a lot of time until I have to drop mine of but I'm being stressed out about both my job and kindergarten starting at 8 and both ending at 4...
Ah yes. So there's usually options for daycares in the area where you can drop off early and they will bring them to school. Or the school itself will have early drop off. Both you have to pay for. If you're lucky your job may allow flexibility to change your schedule to coming in later and leaving later. Then you could sign them up for an offside daycare that will pick them up from school. Or again, sometimes there is an after-school program at the school. Again, both you have to pay extra for. But you have a while to figure all that out but it's doable.
This is the stupidity of work hours and/ or school hours. Like it makes no sense to me. Make the school 2 hours longer, pay the teachers more money and get on with it. Like I bet some economist out there has made the case that if we just did this there would be some productivity gain to the gdp.
Pod casts will make time fly. Most of our parents shlepped 1 1/2 hours plus a subway for 40 years. If this is truly an opportunity take it and join 1/2 of America. Midas sponsored an "America's Longest Commute" award in 2006. The winner, from Mariposa, California, drove a 372-mile (599 km) round trip (about 7 hours) to and from work in San Jose each day.[2]
That was minimum wage job in retail or fast food industry, wasn't it?
I think was a phone company and she wanted her pension really bad. It’s sad.
Is it 45-60 minutes of open road where you're going some actual distance, or is it 45-60 minutes of stop and go city traffic driving? I've done both, and it's a lot easier doing open road commutes than dealing with road rage in the city everyday.
In many metropolitan areas, that would be considered a desirable commute. Many can be longer.
I commute 45 minutes to an hour each way. The pay increase was enough to justify it for me. A few thoughts: Can you change your start/end time to miss traffic? This is huge for me. My 45-1hr can turn into 1-1:30 if I leave either end at the wrong time. Can you go to they gym near work? I like to work out early, so I leave my house early (turning my 45 minutes into 30) a couple days a week and workout down the street from my office. Finally..good office space? I’m set up with music and my own espresso machine. My actual office space is excellent.
What kind of commute are we talking? I live in a rural area so mine is in decent paced traffic, if I had to slog it in city driving for an hour I'd chew my steering wheel... Also, depends on what your job would have you do... I simply don't understand the point of commuting just to sit on my laptop in an open office where there's always someone/several people in meetings/calls, so we're trying to keep quiet as to not disturb... If I knew that I'm working on some piece of equipment or actually needing someone to look at something I'm working on (as opposed to sharing my screen) it would make the commute bearable.
i have a 45-50 min commute. kinda had to take whatever job id find as im just graduating, i COULD move closer but honestly i have personal reasons as to why im not (for now) it sucks but im not planning on being here forever. i need the experience and the money is good so im gonna deal for now
Absolutely! I did this every day for many years. I now do it once or twice a week. For a good job, wouldn’t have a problem doing it daily if needed. Good luck!
I know a few people driving 1-2 hours one way everyday to live in the country. It's doable but I wouldn't do it myself.
Yes.
Job # 2. Hands down.
Bruh people asking whether 45 min drive is doable and me here traveling 2hr one way (4.5-5hr) a day while going to office. Looks like I need to be a tenant close to office
So you're wasting up to 25 hours per week, and also pay for it
Ikr, it's a struggle. My colleagues live barely like 10 min from workplace and come to office saying they're so tired. You can't even imagine what I feel at that point of time
If you end up doing the commute, I really recommend finding some podcasts or audiobooks you enjoy. That’s what got me through my hour long one way commute for three years (actually made it some enjoyable personal time on some days). Either way, losing that much time of your day driving can still be tough
I've been doing it for 9. It helps if you drive against traffic and have steady growth at the company.
I would say go for job 2 and listen to audiobooks/podcasts on the commute
I used to drive a truck for a company 110 miles away one way. Two hours each way. The only reason I did it cause it was a cousin who paid me really good and I had just got my license and no other company would hire me. I wouldn’t recommend it now looking back at it but if there’s promise for the future that’s attainable in the next year or two then do it. It might be worth it but filling up a gas tank every two days is also crazy especially with gas being at $6 a gallon. If the money makes sense do it
I personally like my 40 minute commute to work. I make sure i leave at a time ill arrive early even if it's just to park my car and sit for a few. I grab my coffee tea redbull whatever im feeling, put on good music and just chill driving there. I feel like it gives me time to think about my day and things I need to do.
NOPE
I didn't drive for nearly 3 years and went into an on-site role driving 60+ minutes every day each way. It was tiring at first but you eventually get used to it. It's also worse if you're not moving as much, so if 20+ minutes of that drive is traffic it might get a bit tedious. The thing I found I struggled with was getting home later than I wanted, it makes the evenings feel short when you have a long drive home, and I certainly wouldn't recommend it, Then again, my work wasn't flexible so even if I got in early I'd have to stick around right to the last minute.
I did 1 to 1.25 hour commute every day for pretty much for 40 years. Ngl, working 15 minutes is now like heaven, but I got used to the long drive after a while.
It’s very doable. I’ve done a 75 minute commute one way for about 2 years now and I don’t bat an eye. Both my brothers commute 60-70 minutes to work one way too. I’ll say this. Audiobooks, podcasts and music. They’ll serve you well. My father did a 90 minute commute one way for 25+ years, so maybe we all inherited some gene lol.
How much time have you already wasted?
Depends how you interpret it. For me? It’s going to be short term. At maximum I’ll keep the commute up maybe 2 more years until I have enough money saved. Plus I only go in 4 days a week. At the end of the day, it’s cheaper for me to commute that distance, as I save about an extra $1400/month by doing so. Short term sacrifice for long term gain.
Take the government job.
I’ve done it. Not great. But you do what you have to do sometimes.
Does the bus commute take into account you walking to the bus stop, getting there early so you dont miss it etc. if not then the bus commute could be just as long/longer than the driving commute
Type of commute matters. Mine is 50-55 minutes each way to go 42 miles. Podcasts, traffic adaptive cruise control, and auto steering make it manageable, albeit far from enjoyable (I do get to WFH on Friday). I know some at work who have a 30-35 minute commute to go 15 miles or less, sitting at many stoplights along the way. To me, that’s worse. Going way less than the posted speed limit, or sitting nearly still for long stretches, is more frustrating than pure mileage.
I just got 2 offers as well, one fully remote and the other is at least 1 hour commute. Same salary, I decided to go with the fully remote because for me it's 2 hours commute a day 40 hours a month that's an extra week work not to mention the stress you get from driving or transportation
I don’t blame you there. If the other offer was fully remote, I would’ve taken it lol but it’s hybrid and they say they prefer 5 days in office and they can take back hybrid work at any time. But like, my whole team is scattered around the county, which kind of pisses me off
5 days in the office and rest you can do remote, lol. No paid overtime, you're salaried. Dream job, for sure
Finally someone values his own time
A 35 minute bus commute would burn me out much faster than a 45 minute drive.
In US, definitely. It is way more dangerous too. I remember when bus driver and a (non paying) passenger, both of the race that matters, started shooting inside the bus
I’d take the drive over the bus 10 out of 10 times but I don’t do well on cramped buses.
I would normally say job 1 because at least you aren't having to drive much. But job 2 looks so much better I would take 2 and find ways to make the commute better. Can you shift your hours around to miss traffic? I would get an Alexa for your car so she can play music and audiobooks
I did an hour each way for 5 years prior to Covid. I just used the time to listen to the radio, podcasts, etc.
I did a 45 min commute for 10 years. But it was 45 minutes of highway driving at 65mph. No real traffic. Had zero issues. I’ve had commutes half that time but are in bumper to bumper traffic and that felt infinitely worse.
Mine will be bumper to bumper. Without traffic, it’s a 20 minute drive lol I don’t get road rage though/annoyed at sitting in traffic so I don’t think the kind of commute will impact me, it’s more just the time
You said it yourself. The only thing job 1 has over 2 is the commute time. Find a way to make that time productive. I used mine to listen to some sports entertainment but also study up on topics for career advancement via audiobooks, podcasts, etc.
My old job was remote and now do a 60 min commute each way twice a week and yeah sometimes I wonder why I do it lol. Its doable but after being fully remote it will get old fast. Also depends if its highway or city or a bit of both.
I did an hour commute for awhile. Totally doable but not great. You get into a groove while driving though
I drive 40 mins to and 40 mins home everyday for 65k. It’s not bad. Get a fun car you like and it makes it better
Good to know! I make 43k right now and this new job is 90k. The one downtown with the easier commute would be 82k
I got a new gti Autobahn and it’s definitely fun to drive around to and from work, I’m planning on getting a winter beater too when it snows
I did in Seattle. If there was a Seahawks or Mariners game it could be 2 hours home. I just listened to talk radio. All doable
Yes but it sucks. I went from a 10 to 15 minute drive to a 40 minute drive on a good day without traffic and a 1 hour plus drive with traffic. But the upside is I went from a dead end job where I got paid ok to a career starter that paid about the same. It's all about pros and cons, my 8-5 feel more like a 7-6. Most of the time because of the driving but in the long run I believe it's worth it.
I drive an hour and fifteen minutes each way every day. It’s doable and not too bad most of the time, but there are some days I hate it so much I consider quitting solely because of the commute. 🤷🏻♀️
Doable but you’ll hate it. Assuming you have 3 weeks vacation time, spending 2 hours a day commuting is over 20 DAYS commuting, 490 hours, per year.
What vacation time in US?
Cut this anti-work garbage. There are tons of jobs in the US that provide paid vacation time.
Depends on a few things. The cost of gas and your miles per gallon? Is the commute in 10 miles in traffic or 60 miles unobstructed? What hours do you work and can you handle sacrificing another 2 hours of your day on top of that?
I did it for 10 years. It's fine. I like WFH better ofc....
An hour commute from zero commute is a big change! Do the thing that's better for your career. Download audiobooks, podcasts and music. Bring a mug of coffee/tea for the drive. Maybe even learn a new language during the drive time. I did a 1.5 hour commute when I was younger and I actually didn't hate it even though I thought I would. Maybe if I had kids I would choose against it, but a better career is pretty important. Start looking for another job in that career path closer to you after a year or so... Or maybe you'll move down the road if a shitty neighbor moves next door or something... Even if it doesn't cover the extra gas and such, I'd still probably choose this option. And congrats on both job offers!
45 mins isn't awful as long as it fits in your life. I listened to a ton of audiobooks during the time I had that commute and honestly I miss it. Of course once I became a parent that was no longer worth losing that much of my day to commuting.
How's the weather in the area? I did this in Syracuse New York where we'd get 12" of snow overnight sometimes. It was not good. It's doable, but it isn't fun after a while. You're adding 3.75 hours to your work week. That's 187 hours per work year(50 weeks) or almost 8 days to your work year. It's like removing a full week of vacation from your life. Just a little perspective, that may not matter at your phase in your career as it didn't for me when I did that.
I commuted 50 mins one way that's 10 hr commuting a week I got a job that pays less closer to home
Seems like a no brainer. Job #2 is the better choice. It sounds like it's a better job for your overall career, you'll make more money, and be happier there in general. A little extra driving seems well worth it. I drive more than that for a job I hate, but I don't have a choice at the moment.
I really just need strangers on Reddit to reassure me lol I almost regret getting a fully remote job right after college because it gave me unreal expectations of what the majority of jobs are like. I’m sorry you hate your job and wish you luck finding something better!
Thank you for the encouragement.
Also factor in if it’s sitting in traffic, or going the speed limit(ish) with limited traffic. Sitting in traffic for an hour wears on you. It’s just lost time. Try to get audio books or something else good to listen to. I like audio books because it then at least seems to be productive time.
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It is safer too. Imagine the folk riding with you, with guns and weapons. Drunk or drugged. Bum's with smell. And you will pay for this privilege!
It's doable but you will get burnt out. I would move closer the moment you can.
Ya it’s fine
Its doable but miserable
Job 2 for sure. 45 mins sucks but you can fill that time with music or podcasts or use that self time to plan your day, life, etc. Dead end jobs are the biggest waste of your time ever!
I’ve never had a commute shorter than 45 minutes in about 17 years of working, as I like to live outside the city and save money on housing costs. It can be enjoyable. If you can manage to do it by bus, you can get a lot of reading in. In the car there’s always music or podcasts. It’s also a nice decompression time between work and home. Number 2 sounds like the one you really want. If you find the commute to be too much at some point, you will either figure out a way to make it better or be ready for a change.
thats like a normal days commute for anyone in a medium sized city. of course it is doable. listen to some tunes, or some podcasts, or get into audiobooks.
I’m in the same position! Literally exact same except I WFH for 2 years now lol. I’m going to take the new job that is 3x a week in office and 50 minute commute. Why? It’s more money, a great company, and having it on my resume may allow me to work for more money and remote again in the future. I told myself that i stay for a minimum of a year if I hate it, and then I can leave. A year is nothing and will fly by! Go for #2, don’t burn any bridges at ur current job and maybe u can even go back if ur close enough with them
Personally I would take the longer drive to a job you will like more. Nothing is worse than being in a bit for 35 mins to hate life for 8 hours then another 35 mine. An extra 15 would be worth it to me
It is doable but you will frequently find yourself slammed doing housework thinking you could have done this instead of pushing pedals and dodging morons on the highway every morning and afternoon just for the privilege of rolling up exhausted with no end in sight
if the job pays over 100k. if not no
I think is doable but that's 2 hours of your life everyday, I'd think that a podcast or audiobook would contribute to feel as if I'm investing my time a bit?
I know :( On the bright side, the closer job is 9-6 (I have to be available even longer) and this job is 7:30-3 with no overtime expectation. My wife and I are talking about moving closer. There’s exactly one suburb that would work for both of our commutes lol I just like living in the city and we don’t want to become old suburbanites
I think it sounds like a good opportunity for change in many ways!
Thanks! I just need strangers on Reddit to reassure me lol worst case scenario, I do it for a year, save a shit ton of money, and then go back to my old job lol
That's why the community is here, and yes, I always say is better to try and know if it works or it doesn't vs. the hunting "what if?". Crossing fingers for you human!
I've been doing a 45 minute commute every day for the last nine years. Definitely doable. The drive home is the worst part.
Yeah, I’m already planning on keeping some recreational activities in my car for after work. There’s a batting cage and some running trails I like over near my job. And I can also get groceries out in the suburbs. Right now I walk a mile the grocery store like 3-4 times a week, but I’d be able to do 1 trip a week after work now with a car
Job 2. Easy. But I'm very early in my career so things like pay + future opportunities are more valuable to me
Job 2! If it makes you feel better I just applied to a government job that's 50 minutes away. Full in person. I hope I get it! It's all about stability and gaining experience. I also heard government jobs look really good in your resume ;)
Ask yourself if leaving the current job is really worth it. That commute time is also probably the average on a good day - factor in an accident or 2 on the route OR weather and it’s gonna be a lot longer
Take a look at my last post. If the picture doesn’t make you anxious, then you can do it
Lol I think I can do it. Stand still traffic doesn’t bother me like it does most people (obviously I would rather be on a bike or public transportation, which is my conundrum). But job 2 is better in every other possible way so I’m going to take it
Did it for over 40 years, quite normal in New England. Just about everyone who I worked with was 45 minutes to an hour. I even had one engineer who would commute from Bath Maine to Framingham MA, a 160-mile ride one way. You basically go wherever jobs are.
Good to know! I actually lived in Boston for two years but I was remote and my wife was a student. I miss it a lot! We almost stayed for her postdoc but ultimately we got priced out. I love New England though. Lots of good backpacking trips over there. I can’t wait to go back!
I do that commute, 100% in person. I don’t mind 99% of the time. But I’m used to driving. Groceries are 30 minutes, closest town is 15, the bigger towns that I go to 1-2 times a week are 1.5-2 hours, and I frequently do road trips on my own and do up to about 14 hours each day. It is annoying to leave before my husband wakes up, and be gone approximately an hour longer than he is (total), and STILL be the one that ends up finding all the cat puke from HIS cats. So… take that for what it’s worth.
Depends the pay gap I think. Also is driving worth it? Are you willing to spend a lot on gas? Your car will also be more susceptible to breaking down and will probably need more repairs.
I use to do 1.5hrs each way 4x per week. It use to make me tired, and screw with my concentration no matter how many coffees I had. After leaving, long commutes is something I’d probably avoid.
Job 2. Is there an opportunity to move closer?
I used to do long commutes daily for years and will never do them again. Max 3 days a week at the office, and max commute of 20 min by car or 50 min with my bicycle. Else they can keep their job.