Europeans Spend 48 Minutes Commuting

The average daily commute time in Europe is 48 minutes, but this number masks significant differences across EU countries. According to research by SD Worx, Belgium has the longest average commute time at 61 minutes.

One of the main reasons for Belgium's lengthy commute time is the high number of 'super-commuters'. 13% of the country's workforce spend two hours or more on the road, with 14% travelling over 120 kilometres daily.

In contrast, some countries have relatively brief daily commute times. Italy and Slovenia average around 35 minutes, while Sweden and Ireland have average commute times of 57 and 56 minutes, respectively. The Netherlands and Romania both average 53 minutes for a daily commute, but the underlying dynamics are different. Workers in the Netherlands cover an average of 63 kilometres for their daily commute, relying on efficient infrastructure to handle long-distance travel. In Romania, workers spend the same amount of time covering much shorter geographic distances.

Despite the long commute times, only 34% of workers in Belgium view their commute time as wasted. However, 32% of Belgian employees demand more remote work, which is below the international average.

## Why it matters The commute times vary significantly across EU countries due to factors such as geography, traffic, and worker mindsets. Understanding these differences is important for policymakers and employers to address the needs of their workforce. With many workers spending a significant amount of time commuting, it is essential to consider the impact on productivity, work-life balance, and overall well-being.

The research highlights the need for flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, to alleviate the burden of long commute times. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it is crucial to prioritize the needs of workers and provide them with the necessary tools and support to manage their work and personal lives effectively.