We talk a lot about productivity, flexibility, and culture when it comes to remote work. But there's one argument that speaks louder than all of them: money. And the numbers are surprisingly big.
The Numbers Are In
New data shows that remote work can really cut down on our daily splurges (makes sense—I can't buy my croissants that way!). On average, it means around $7,000 saved per year. For businesses, the savings can go up to $11,000 per employee.
Some interesting numbers, right? Good to keep in mind if you're planning to negotiate more WFH days or even a little pay bump. Just a little side note!
Where the Savings Come From
The employee savings — which various sources estimate between $2,500 and $12,000 per year depending on whether you work remotely part-time or full-time — come primarily from reduced commuting costs (fuel, public transport, parking), fewer meals out, and lower spending on work clothing. The more days you work from home, the more you save.
On the employer side, Global Workplace Analytics estimates that a typical U.S. employer saves around $11,000 per year for each employee who works remotely half the time. Those savings come from reduced real estate costs, lower absenteeism, decreased turnover, and increased productivity. For a company with 50 employees, that adds up to over half a million dollars annually.
The savings are real on both sides — and they're one of the strongest practical arguments for maintaining flexible work policies.
How Office Managers Can Use This Data
If you're an office manager trying to build a case for flexible or hybrid work, cost savings are your most persuasive tool. Here's how to put the numbers to work:
Calculate your company's potential savings. Use the free Telework Savings Calculator from Global Workplace Analytics to estimate savings based on your team size and work model. Real numbers are more persuasive than general statistics.
Frame it as a retention benefit. Research consistently shows that flexibility is now among the top factors in job decisions — with some surveys ranking it above salary. Offering WFH days costs the company nothing and can significantly reduce turnover.
Pair the financial case with the productivity case. A 2024 analysis by Great Place To Work found that employees at companies supporting remote or hybrid work showed productivity levels nearly 42% higher than typical workplaces.
Start with a pilot. If leadership is hesitant, propose a 3-month hybrid trial with clear metrics. Measure employee satisfaction, output, and any cost reductions. Data from your own team is harder to argue against than external studies.
Whether you're an employee looking to negotiate more flexibility or an office manager building a business case, the financial argument for remote work is clear — and it's only getting stronger.
