New research sheds light on the significant financial impact of commuting on UK employees.
- The study shows that commuters work an average of 54 days annually to afford travel expenses.
- Employees using hybrid work models fare slightly better, working 32 days a year for commuting costs.
- Car commuters bear higher costs than train users, spending approximately £9,452 annually.
- The Birmingham to London commute is the most expensive, costing £75 daily and 28% of average salaries.
A recent analysis by Rippl, a recognition platform, highlights the substantial financial burden faced by regular commuters across the UK. The research reveals that an average employee spends an equivalent of 54 days’ worth of salary each year on commuting expenses.
Those who engage in hybrid working, commuting three days a week, experience a slightly reduced financial strain, working 32 days per year to cover travel costs. This mode of working provides some relief in terms of time and finances.
Commuting by car proves to be significantly more expensive than train travel. On average, car commuters spend approximately £9,452 annually. In contrast, those who commute five days a week by train spend around £8,275 each year, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of public transport for regular travel.
The analysis identifies the Birmingham to London route as the most costly, with daily expenses averaging £75. This route, alongside others such as Oxford to London (£56) and Brighton to London (£49), exemplifies the high financial commitment required for daily travel to major cities.
In terms of salary proportion, commuters from Birmingham to London experience the highest cost burden, with travel expenses constituting 28% of their average income. Conversely, the Falkirk to Edinburgh route is less financially demanding, accounting for just 9% of average earnings.
Chris Brown, CEO of Rippl, underlines the acute financial pressure on employees, stating that losing 53 days of pay to commuting significantly impacts household finances. He emphasises the need for employers to address these costs through support and benefits.
Employers are encouraged to implement measures that alleviate the financial strain of commuting. Such measures could include flexible working arrangements, travel allowances, and contributions to public transport costs, thereby enhancing employee wellbeing.
The findings highlight a pressing need for strategies to mitigate the financial impacts of commuting on UK employees.
