Analysis: We liked remote work. Then we looked at the data

PremiumAnalysisAnalysis byEmma Harrington and Natalia EmanuelNew York Times·17 Jun, 2026 10:14 PM5 mins to readNatalia Emanuel and Emma Harrington are US labour economistsIn 2024, nearly 80% of US workers said they would be happiest if they could work remotely. Photo / 123rfDespite its advantages, work-from-home arrangements have significantly deepened Americans’ isolation and distress.

Most Americans say they love working from home. They can skip their commutes, dodge their snippy co-workers and evade their micromanaging bosses. In 2024, nearly 80% of workers said they would be happiest if