Over the past few years, remote work transformed the housing market, giving workers the flexibility to move away from expensive city centers, relocate to suburban or rural areas, and trade small apartments for larger homes.

But now, as companies enforce return-to-office policies, many workers are faced with a difficult decision: Is my current home still the right fit for my lifestyle?

For some, commuting a few times a week may not seem like a big deal. But for others, the daily grind of long train rides or traffic congestion is forcing them to consider moving closer to work—or even relocating altogether.

So, how is this shift impacting Rhode Island homebuyers and sellers? Let’s break down what you need to know if returning to the office is making you rethink where you live.

How Return-to-Work Policies Are Shaping Housing Decisions

According to a Bright MLS survey, more than half of workers would need to rethink their housing situation if their employer required them to return to the office.

For many remote workers, moving outside of major metro areas during the pandemic was a smart financial move—allowing them to get more space for less money. But as hybrid and in-office work becomes the new normal, commute times are back in focus.

If You’re Facing a Long Commute, You Have Two Choices:

1. Adjust to the longer commute and weigh the costs of staying in your current home.

2. Move closer to work and reclaim your time and work-life balance.

But how do you decide which option is right for you?

Should You Move Closer to Work? Key Factors to Consider

1. The Cost of Your Commute

Before making a move, calculate how much your daily commute is costing you. Consider:

• Gas and maintenance costs (if you drive)

• Train or public transit expenses

• Parking fees

• Time spent commuting (could be used for family, fitness, or leisure)

If commuting five days a week is eating into your budget or personal time, moving closer to work might be worth considering.

2. Affordability vs. Commute Time

During the remote-work era, many people left Providence or Boston for more affordable areas in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, or Connecticut.

If you moved farther from the city to buy a larger home but now need to be in-office more often, you may need to strike a new balance between affordability and location.

• Moving closer to work might mean paying more for housing, but you’ll save on commute costs.

• Staying in your current home means a longer commute, but potentially more space and a lower mortgage.

Your lifestyle priorities will determine which trade-off makes the most sense.

3. Hybrid Work Flexibility

Not all return-to-office policies require five days a week in the office. Many companies are adopting hybrid models, allowing employees to work remotely for part of the week.

Before making a move, consider:

• How many days you need to be in the office

• Whether you can adjust your schedule to avoid peak traffic times

• If a part-time commute is manageable

If you’re only in the office 2-3 times per week, a longer commute may not be as much of a burden. But if you’re expected in the office full-time, proximity to work may become a bigger priority.

4. Home Prices & Market Conditions

Rhode Island’s housing market remains highly competitive, with low inventory and rising home prices. That means:

• Homes closer to Providence and major job centers tend to be more expensive.

• Suburban and rural areas still offer better affordability, but with longer commute times.

• Well-priced homes are still selling quickly, making timing a key factor if you decide to move.

If you need to move closer to work, having a strategic buying and selling plan is crucial.

Should You Sell Your Home and Buy in a More Convenient Location?

If returning to the office is making your current home less practical, selling and relocating might be the best solution. But timing is everything.

Why Now Could Be a Smart Time to Sell in Rhode Island:

✅ Inventory remains low, meaning well-priced homes are still selling quickly.
✅ Demand for homes in suburban areas remains strong, especially in Cranston, Warwick, East Greenwich, and North Kingstown.
✅ Sellers who price their homes competitively can still see strong offers.

If your long commute is wearing you down, now might be the right time to explore your options.

How to Navigate Your Next Move

If returning to the office has you considering a move, here’s how to approach it strategically:

Step 1: Assess Your Current Home’s Value

Before making any decisions, get a free home valuation to see what your current home is worth in today’s market.

Step 2: Explore New Location Options

Determine what areas offer the best balance of commute time, affordability, and lifestyle benefits.

Step 3: Work With a Local Expert

Buying and selling in a competitive market like Rhode Island requires expert negotiation and strategy. Working with The Slocum Home Team ensures you get the best possible outcome.

Final Thoughts: Should You Move or Stay?

The shift back to in-office work is causing many Rhode Islanders to rethink their housing situation. While some will adjust to longer commutes, others may opt to move closer to work for a better quality of life.

Whatever your situation, having a real estate expert guide you through your options can make all the difference.

At The Slocum Home Team, we specialize in helping buyers and sellers in Rhode Island navigate major life transitions like this.

📞 Call Nick Slocum or one of The Slocum Home Team’s top agents today.