According to a new study, more than a third (35%) of UK workers would be willing to take home less money in exchange for shorter commutes or less stressful travel. The findings show that there is widespread dissatisfaction about daily travel, particularly in urban areas.
According to a study released by benefits platform BHN Extras in the UK, 34 percent of employees are willing to accept a lower pay for a shorter commute. The figure increases to 39 percent in Greater London. This is equivalent to approximately 3.84 million employees. The younger workers were also more willing to sacrifice their salary in exchange for better travel options. Forty percent of those aged under 35 said they would do so.
The study is based upon a representative national sample, which examines attitudes towards commuting and cycling as well as employer-sponsored transport schemes. The research suggests that despite the high level of dissatisfaction with commuting, alternative modes of transport such as cycling have declined in popularity.
Everyday commute frustrations
The commute is a major source of financial and emotional stress. Since 44 percent of workers are now working full-time, 71 per cent have complained about their daily commute. Most common complaints include long travel time (42%), high cost (28%), overcrowding (80%), poor behavior from other commuters (20%), and delays (17%).
In London, the average commuter spends PS192 per month. Just 23 percent of commuters say they like their commute and the other half dislike it. Among those who bike to work 40 percent enjoy the experience.
Chris Ronald, Managing director at BHN commented: “Commuting has become a major influence on how people view their job. It’s clear that it has become so important, as many workers are willing to take a salary cut in exchange for a better commute. The employers have the chance to really make a difference.”
Cycling is seen as beneficial, but the number of cyclists has fallen
Most employees (87%) see cycling as having positive effects. The perceived benefits of cycling include better physical health (55%), savings on costs (52%) as well as environmental impact (37%). The benefits of improved mental health were also widely mentioned, particularly among those who took up cycling within the past 12 months.
In spite of this, 25 percent of employees cycle to work today, down from 32 per cent in 2024. 36 percent of employees say they’re considering cycling to work, which shows potential for future growth.
The barriers to cycling persist. The most common reasons given for not cycling are long commutes (40%) safety concerns (34%), bad conditions (31%) and lack bike access (21%). 22 percent of respondents still think cycling is for physically fit people, but this perception has started to change. Fitness as a perceived obstacle has decreased from 23 percent to thirteen percent.
Adrian Warren, Senior director at BHN, said, “The commute to work takes a toll on peoples’ wallets, their wellbeing, and their time. Our research shows how far workers will go to improve their commutes, including accepting a lower salary. Cycling and e-bikes in particular could change the game.”
Electric bikes offer a new level of potential
Electric bikes have emerged as a solution to overcome concerns about fitness and distance. However, awareness is low. 58 percent of workers say they’ve never thought about using an electric bike. Men (34%), 25-34-year-olds (41%) and staff based in London (48%) are the most likely to be inclined to ride a bike.
Significant numbers of workers believe that employer support can make a big difference. A workplace scheme that provides an ebike would encourage 44 per cent of workers to take up cycling. A further 39 percent said that assistance with equipment or cycling gear would encourage them to start cycling. Meanwhile, 36 percent were influenced by flexible work hours.
The Cycle to Work Alliance, BHN Extras and other organizations are calling for employers to adopt schemes that encourage cycling. Steve Edgell, chair of the Cycle to Work Alliance said that these findings were a clear indication that UK workers want a more efficient way to commute. Cycling is an effective, practical solution that boosts productivity, improves well-being, and saves money.
