Is It Time to Move Closer to Work? Here’s Why It Might Be Worth It

Spending hours in traffic just to get to and from work every day can feel like a full-time job in itself. If you’ve ever found yourself mentally calculating how many hours you lose each week to the daily grind (and how much that’s costing you), you’re not alone. I was in this state five years ago. I used to wake up before 5 a.m. to catch my bus from Quezon City to Makati to be in the office before 8 a.m and had to stay in Makati until later in the evening to avoid the rush hour.

More young professionals are starting to ask — and rightly so: “What if I just moved closer to the office?” And honestly? It might be one of the smartest financial and lifestyle decisions you could make.

Save money in the long run

At first glance, moving closer to work might look like an extra expense — higher rent, maybe, or a slightly pricier neighborhood. But zoom out, and you’ll see the hidden savings pile up. Daily transport costs (gas, parking, rideshares, or public transport) can easily eat up a big chunk of your monthly budget. Not to mention the price of convenience food or drinks bought during long commutes. By slashing your travel time, you also cut down on these sneaky costs, leaving you with more money to put into savings or investments.

These estimates don’t even account for fare surges during peak hours or bad weather, nor do they factor in lost time and productivity, which also carries real value. 

Better health, inside and out

Less time commuting means more time for the things that keep you feeling good such as cooking actual meals, working out, or simply getting an extra hour of sleep. Stressful, long commutes can be physically and mentally draining. Living closer to work lets you do more things to take care of your physical and mental well-being. That’s not just good for your health; it’s good for your hustle too!

More time for life

Moving closer to work gives you back time. Time to build your side hustle, take up a short course, join a fitness class, or simply rest and recharge. It also opens up the chance to meet new people, explore new routines, and gain more independence. You’re not just moving closer to work—you’re moving closer to the life you want.

Thinking of making the leap?

If your current setup has you feeling burnt out or boxed in, a relocation might just be the reset you need. Run the numbers, explore your options, and ask yourself if a shorter commute could be a long-term success. It’s not just about getting to the office faster, it’s about showing up as your best self every day and getting closer to your goals!

After all, life’s too short to spend it stuck in traffic.

Do you want to read more financial advice? Visit NEXT by BPI Preferred’s The Program.