As technology continues to advance and the world becomes increasingly interconnected, more and more jobs are becoming location-independent. In fact, it’s estimated that by end of 2023, up to 30% of the global workforce will be working remotely. But what are the most remote jobs that we can expect to see in 2023? From digital marketing to software development, there are a variety of roles that can be done entirely online.
Some positions may require occasional travel or face-to-face meetings, but for the most part, these jobs can be done from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. With remote work becoming more common, it’s important for companies to adjust their hiring practices to accommodate this changing landscape. By embracing remote work, employers can tap into a global pool of talent and offer more flexible work arrangements to attract top talent. As we approach the year 2023, it’s exciting to imagine what new remote job opportunities will be available and how the workforce will continue to evolve.
This article will delve into the ranking of jobs by the percentage of remote work they offer, based on data from the American Community Survey. Beyond simply identifying which jobs offer more remote work options, we will also examine how remote work impacts commuting patterns, work-life balance, and location flexibility.
Ranking by Remote Work
In the rapidly evolving digital age, understanding the landscape of remote work is more crucial than ever. Our comprehensive analysis of the most popular remote jobs in the USA in 2023, based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau, provides invaluable insights into the future of work and the economy.
This data, sourced from the Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey (ACS) report, is a testament to the meticulous collection and analysis of information from households across the country. The ACS, an ongoing survey, provides vital data that helps determine how federal and state funds are distributed each year.
The importance of this data cannot be overstated. It not only reveals the occupations with the highest percentage of remote workers but also indicates the sectors adapting to the remote work trend. The key takeaways from this data are the growing prevalence of remote work across various industries and the potential for significant shifts in the future job market.
Whether you’re a job seeker looking for flexible work options, an employer planning your workforce, or a policy-maker drafting legislation, this data offers a clear snapshot of the current remote work landscape. It underscores the need for businesses to adapt to remote work arrangements and for individuals to acquire skills suited for remote work.
Stay tuned as we delve deeper into the data, uncovering the top 250 remote jobs in the USA in 2023, and explore what these trends mean for the future of work.
The 250 Most Popular Remote Occupations In USA in 2023
| Remote Occupation Rank | Occupation | Share of People Working from Home (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Economists and Market Researchers | 68% |
| #2 | Writers and Authors | 65% |
| #3 | Software Developers | 64% |
| #4 | Management Analysts | 62% |
| #5 | Mathematical Science Occupations | 62% |
| #6 | Technical Writers | 59% |
| #7 | Insurance Underwriters | 59% |
| #8 | Claims Adjusters and Appraisers | 57% |
| #9 | Travel Agents | 56% |
| #10 | Editors and Reporters | 56% |
| #11 | Computer Hardware Engineers | 56% |
| #12 | Database Administrators | 55% |
| #13 | Financial Analysts | 55% |
| #14 | Computer Programmers | 54% |
| #15 | Computer and IT Managers | 51% |
| #16 | Insurance Claims, Processing Clerks | 50% |
| #17 | Systems Analysts and Web Developers | 49% |
| #18 | Public Relations Specialists | 47% |
| #19 | Business Operations Specialists | 47% |
| #20 | Private Detectives and Investigators | 47% |
| #21 | Advertising Sales Agents | 46% |
| #22 | Artists and Related Workers | 46% |
| #23 | Financial Services Sales Agents | 46% |
| #24 | Operations Research Analysts | 46% |
| #25 | Marketing and P.R. Managers | 45% |
| #26 | Financial Specialists | 43% |
| #27 | Computer Support Specialists | 43% |
| #28 | Compliance Officers | 42% |
| #29 | Actors, Producers and Directors | 41% |
| #30 | Tax Examiners and Collectors | 41% |
| #31 | Credit Counselors and Loan Officers | 40% |
| #32 | Architects | 40% |
| #33 | Loan Interviewers and Clerks | 40% |
| #34 | Designers | 39% |
| #35 | Sales Representatives | 39% |
| #36 | Video Camera Operators and Editors | 39% |
| #37 | Eligibility Interviewers for Govt. Programs | 38% |
| #38 | Medical Records Technicians | 38% |
| #39 | Computer Systems Administrators | 38% |
| #40 | Personal Financial Advisers | 38% |
| #41 | Bill and Account Collectors | 38% |
| #42 | Human Resources Specialists | 38% |
| #43 | Lawyers and Judges | 38% |
| #44 | Accountants and Auditors | 37% |
| #45 | Purchasing Managers | 36% |
| #46 | Architectural and Engineering Managers | 36% |
| #47 | Meeting and Convention Planners | 36% |
| #48 | Environmental Scientists | 36% |
| #49 | Managers | 35% |
| #50 | Engineers | 35% |
| Remote Occupation Rank | Occupation | Share of People Working from Home (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| #51 | Telemarketers | 34% |
| #52 | Electrical Engineers | 33% |
| #53 | Residential Advisers | 33% |
| #54 | Community/Social Services Specialists | 33% |
| #55 | Media and Communication Workers | 33% |
| #56 | Legal Support Workers | 33% |
| #57 | Insurance Sales Agents | 33% |
| #58 | Financial Managers | 32% |
| #59 | Human Resources Managers | 32% |
| #60 | Aerospace Engineers | 32% |
| #61 | Physical Scientists | 32% |
| #62 | Postsecondary Teachers | 32% |
| #63 | Billing and Posting Clerks | 32% |
| #64 | Public Administration | 32% |
| #65 | Tax Preparers | 32% |
| #66 | Financial Clerks | 31% |
| #67 | Door-to-Door Sales; Street Vendors | 31% |
| #68 | Photographers | 30% |
| #69 | Drafters | 30% |
| #70 | Psychologists | 30% |
| #71 | Data Entry Keyers | 30% |
| #72 | Purchasing Agents | 28% |
| #73 | Social and Community Service Managers | 28% |
| #74 | Typists | 28% |
| #75 | Real Estate Appraisers | 28% |
| #76 | Teachers | 28% |
| #77 | Civil Engineers | 28% |
| #78 | Edu., Training and Library Workers | 28% |
| #79 | Medical and Life Scientists | 28% |
| #80 | Customer Service Representatives | 28% |
| #81 | Information and Record Clerks | 27% |
| #82 | Interviewers | 27% |
| #83 | Real Estate Brokers | 27% |
| #84 | Biological Scientists | 27% |
| #85 | Sales Representatives (Wholesale) | 26% |
| #86 | Farmers, Ranchers, Agricultural Managers | 26% |
| #87 | Paralegals | 26% |
| #88 | Chemical Engineers | 26% |
| #89 | Administrative Support Workers | 25% |
| #90 | Mechanical Engineers | 25% |
| #91 | Tailors | 25% |
| #92 | Bookkeepers | 25% |
| #93 | Logisticians | 24% |
| #94 | Musicians | 24% |
| #95 | Human Resources Assistants | 24% |
| #96 | Sales and Related Workers | 24% |
| #97 | Therapists | 23% |
| #98 | Religious Workers | 23% |
| #99 | Industrial Engineers | 23% |
| #100 | Counselors | 23% |
| Remote Occupation Rank | Occupation | Share of People Working from Home (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| #101 | Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks | 22% |
| #102 | Child Care Workers | 22% |
| #103 | Correspondent Clerks and Order Clerks | 22% |
| #104 | Health Care Practitioners | 21% |
| #105 | Property Managers | 21% |
| #106 | Social Workers | 21% |
| #107 | Production Clerks | 20% |
| #108 | File Clerks | 20% |
| #109 | Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks | 20% |
| #110 | Models and Product Promoters | 20% |
| #111 | Supervisors of Admin. Support Workers | 20% |
| #112 | Archivists, Curators, Museum Technicians | 20% |
| #113 | Cost Estimators | 19% |
| #114 | Wholesale and Retail Buyers | 18% |
| #115 | Broadcast Technicians, Radio Operators | 18% |
| #116 | Personal Care Aides | 18% |
| #117 | Medical and Health Services Managers | 18% |
| #118 | Education Administrators | 18% |
| #119 | Administrative Assistants | 18% |
| #120 | General and Operations Managers | 17% |
| #121 | Dieticians and Nutritionists | 17% |
| #122 | Admnistrative Services Managers | 16% |
| #123 | Life, Physical and Soc. Sci. Technicians | 16% |
| #124 | Industrial Production Managers | 16% |
| #125 | Tour and Travel Guides | 16% |
| #126 | Directors of Religious Activities and Educ. | 16% |
| #127 | Personal Care and Service Workers | 15% |
| #128 | Supervisors of Sales Workers | 15% |
| #129 | Military Enlisted Specialists and Crew | 15% |
| #130 | Chemists and Material Scientists | 15% |
| #131 | Computer and Office Machine Repairers | 15% |
| #132 | Office Clerks | 14% |
| #133 | Court, Municipal and License Clerks | 14% |
| #134 | Librarians | 14% |
| #135 | Speech Language Pathologists | 14% |
| #136 | Transportation and Storage Managers | 14% |
| #137 | Recreation and Fitness Workers | 14% |
| #138 | Construction Managers | 13% |
| #139 | Clergy | 13% |
| #140 | Athletes, Coaches and Umpires | 13% |
| #141 | Dispatchers | 13% |
| #142 | Groundkeeping and Landscaping Supervisors | 12% |
| #143 | Pharmacists | 12% |
| #144 | Receptionists | 12% |
| #145 | Construction and Building Inspectors | 12% |
| #146 | Housekeeping and Janitorial Supervisors | 12% |
| #147 | Taxi Drivers and Chauffeurs | 11% |
| #148 | Surveying and Map Technicians | 11% |
| #149 | Protective Service Workers | 11% |
| #150 | Radio and Telcom Equipment Technicians | 11% |
| Remote Occupation Rank | Occupation | Share of People Working from Home (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| #151 | Secondary School Teachers | 10% |
| #152 | Stationary Engineers, Boiler Operators | 10% |
| #153 | Massage Therapists | 10% |
| #154 | Teacher Assistants | 10% |
| #155 | Engineering Technicians | 10% |
| #156 | Special Education Teachers | 10% |
| #157 | Elementary and Middle School Teachers | 10% |
| #158 | Sewing Machine Operators | 10% |
| #159 | Retail Sales | 10% |
| #160 | Animal Caretakers (Non-Farm) | 10% |
| #161 | Chemical Technicians | 10% |
| #162 | Military | 9% |
| #163 | Cosmetologists | 9% |
| #164 | Physician Assistants | 9% |
| #165 | Telecommunications Line Technicians | 9% |
| #166 | Chiropractors | 9% |
| #167 | Inspectors, Testers, Samplers | 9% |
| #168 | Bakers | 8% |
| #169 | Counter and Rental Clerks | 8% |
| #170 | Registered Nurses | 8% |
| #171 | Occupational Therapists | 8% |
| #172 | Logging Workers | 8% |
| #173 | Diagnostic-Related Technologists | 8% |
| #174 | Supervisors of Personal Service Workers | 8% |
| #175 | Aircraft Pilots and Flight Engineers | 8% |
| #176 | Precision Equipment Repairers | 8% |
| #177 | Other Equipment Repair | 8% |
| #178 | Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters | 8% |
| #179 | Nursing, Psychiatric and Home Health Aides | 8% |
| #180 | Personal Appearance Workers | 8% |
| #181 | Agricultural Workers | 8% |
| #182 | Physicians and Surgeons | 7% |
| #183 | Pest Control Workers | 7% |
| #184 | Supervisors of Mechanics and Repairers | 7% |
| #185 | Preschool and Kindergarten Teachers | 7% |
| #186 | Weighers, Measurers, Checkers and Samplers | 7% |
| #187 | Medical Assistants, Health Care Supporters | 7% |
| #188 | Veterinarians | 7% |
| #189 | Mail Clerks, Machine Operators (Not USPS) | 7% |
| #190 | Flight Attendants, Transportation Workers | 7% |
| #191 | Food Service and Lodging Managers | 7% |
| #192 | Clinical Laboratory Technologists | 7% |
| #193 | First-Line Enlisted Military Supervisors | 7% |
| #194 | Production Worker Helpers | 7% |
| #195 | Couriers and Messengers | 7% |
| #196 | Computer Control Programmers and Operators | 7% |
| #197 | Police Officers and Detectives | 7% |
| #198 | Entertainment Attendants and Related Workers | 7% |
| #199 | Crossing Guards | 7% |
| #200 | Medical, Dental and Ophthalmic Lab Techs | 7% |
| Remote Occupation Rank | Occupation | Share of People Working from Home (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| #201 | Bookbinders, Printing Machine Operators | 7% |
| #202 | Health Practitioner Support Technicians | 7% |
| #203 | Grounds Maintenance Workers | 6% |
| #204 | Law Enforcement Workers | 6% |
| #205 | Physical Therapists | 6% |
| #206 | Tool and Die Makers | 6% |
| #207 | Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers | 6% |
| #208 | Barbers | 6% |
| #209 | Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors | 6% |
| #210 | First-Line Production Supervisors | 6% |
| #211 | Carpenters | 6% |
| #212 | Supervisors of Farming, Fishing and Forestry | 6% |
| #213 | Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides | 6% |
| #214 | Gaming Services Workers | 6% |
| #215 | Baggage Porters, Bellhops and Concierges | 6% |
| #216 | Security Guards, Gaming Surveillance Officers | 6% |
| #217 | Motor Vehicle Operators, All Other | 6% |
| #218 | Painters, Construction and Maintenance | 6% |
| #219 | Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses | 6% |
| #220 | Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners | 6% |
| #221 | Health Technologists and Technicians | 6% |
| #222 | First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades | 6% |
| #223 | First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers | 6% |
| #224 | Construction Laborers | 6% |
| #225 | Chemical Processing Machine Setters, Operators and Tenders | 6% |
| #226 | Sheet Metal Workers, Metal-Working | 6% |
| #227 | Drywall Installers, Ceiling Tile Installers and Tapers | 5% |
| #228 | Postal Service Clerks | 5% |
| #229 | Library Assistants, Clerical | 5% |
| #230 | Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | 5% |
| #231 | Supervisors of Transportation Workers | 5% |
| #232 | Respiratory Therapists | 5% |
| #233 | Helpers, Construction Trades | 5% |
| #234 | Bank Tellers | 5% |
| #235 | Electricians | 5% |
| #236 | Driver/Sales Workers and Truck Drivers | 5% |
| #237 | Maintenance and Repair Workers, General | 5% |
| #238 | Electrical and Electromechanical Assemblers | 5% |
| #239 | Hotel, Motel and Resort Desk Clerks | 5% |
| #240 | Shipping, Receiving and Traffic Clerks | 5% |
| Remote Occupation Rank | Occupation | Share of People Working from Home (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| #241 | Automotive Body and Related Repairers | 5% |
| #242 | Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers | 5% |
| #243 | Brickmasons, Blockmasons and Stonemasons | 5% |
| #244 | Dental Assistants | 5% |
| #245 | Food-Service Hosts and Hostesses | 5% |
| #246 | Stock Clerks and Order Fillers | 5% |
| #247 | Food Preparation Workers | 5% |
| #248 | Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment | 5% |
| #249 | Water Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators | 5% |
| #250 | Structural Iron and Steel Workers | 5% |
| #251 | Parts Salespersons | 5% |
| #252 | Vehicle Mechanics, Installers and Repairers | 5% |
| #253 | Parking Lot Attendants | 5% |
| #254 | Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers | 5% |
| #255 | Supervisors of Police and Detectives | 5% |
| #256 | Pipelayers, Plumbers and Steamfitters | 5% |
| #257 | Supervisors of Food Prep. and Serving Workers | 5% |
| #258 | Cutting Workers | 5% |
| #259 | Dentists | 5% |
| #260 | Heating, A.C. and Refrigeration Mechanics | 5% |
| #261 | Food Processing | 5% |
| #262 | Sheriffs, Bailiffs, Correctional Officers | 4% |
| #263 | Carpet, Floor and Tile Installers | 4% |
| #264 | Other Production Workers | 4% |
| #265 | Food Prep. and Serving Workers, Inc. Fast Food | 4% |
| #266 | Dental Hygienists | 4% |
| #267 | Heavy Vehicle Equipment Service Technicians | 4% |
| #268 | Extraction Workers | 4% |
| #269 | Janitors and Building Cleaners | 4% |
| #270 | Construction Workers | 4% |
| #271 | Cashiers | 4% |
| #272 | Welding, Soldering and Brazing Workers | 4% |
| #273 | Chefs and Cooks | 4% |
| #274 | Material Moving Workers | 4% |
| #275 | Laborers and Freight and Stock Movers | 4% |
| #276 | Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | 4% |
| #277 | Construction Equipment Operators | 4% |
| #278 | Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics | 4% |
| #279 | Bartenders | 4% |
| #280 | Assemblers and Fabricators | 4% |
| Remote Occupation Rank | Occupation | Share of People Working from Home (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| #281 | Postal Service Mail Carriers | 4% |
| #282 | Machinists | 4% |
| #283 | Waiters and Waitresses | 4% |
| #284 | Cutting, Punching and Press Machine Operators | 4% |
| #285 | Roofers | 4% |
| #286 | Firefighters | 4% |
| #287 | Bus and Ambulance Drivers | 4% |
| #288 | Packers and Packagers | 4% |
| #289 | Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers | 4% |
| #290 | Industrial and Refractory Machinery Mechanics | 4% |
| #291 | Bus and Truck Mechanics | 4% |
| #292 | Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants | 4% |
| #293 | Packaging and Filling Machine Operators | 4% |
| #294 | Opticians | 4% |
| #295 | Non-Restaurant Food Servers | 4% |
| #296 | Dishwashers | 4% |
| #297 | Crane and Tower Operators | 4% |
| #298 | Painters | 3% |
| #299 | Food Batchmakers | 3% |
| #300 | Crushing, Polishing and Blending Workers | 3% |
| Remote Occupation Rank | Occupation | Share of People Working from Home (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| #301 | Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators | 3% |
| #302 | Postal Service Mail Sorters | 3% |
| #303 | Butchers | 3% |
| #304 | Metal and Plastic Workers | 3% |
| #305 | Highway Maintenance Workers | 3% |
| #306 | Electrical Power-Line Technicians | 3% |
| #307 | Mining Machine Operators | 2% |
The Most Popular Remote Jobs in 2023
In the evolving landscape of the modern workplace, certain occupations are leading the charge in the transition to remote work. These roles, spanning various industries, have successfully leveraged technology to break free from the confines of traditional office spaces. The following discussion delves into the top nine occupations with the highest percentage of remote workers. We’ll explore why these roles are particularly suited to remote work and the benefits this arrangement offers to both employees and employers. From economists and market researchers to travel agents, these professions are redefining what it means to ‘go to work’.
- Economists and Market Researchers (68%): These professionals often work with data and digital tools that can be accessed from anywhere. Remote work allows them to conduct research and analysis without geographical constraints. For employers, it broadens the talent pool, and for employees, it offers flexibility and eliminates commuting time.
- Writers and Authors (65%): Writing is a task that requires focus and can be done independently, making it well-suited for remote work. Employers benefit from reduced overhead costs, while writers enjoy the freedom to create their ideal work environment and schedule.
- Software Developers (64%): Coding doesn’t require physical presence and can be done from anywhere with a good internet connection. Employers can tap into global talent and reduce office space costs. Developers, on the other hand, can work in their preferred environment and often have flexible hours.
- Management Analysts (62%): These professionals can conduct research, analyze data, and prepare reports remotely. Employers can access experts regardless of location, and analysts can enjoy the flexibility of working from home and the absence of a commute.
- Mathematical Science Occupations (62%): Jobs in this field often involve problem-solving and data analysis, tasks that can be done remotely. Employers can source talent globally, and employees can enjoy the flexibility and comfort of working from home.
- Technical Writers (59%): Like other writing jobs, technical writing can be done independently and remotely. Employers save on office space, and writers can work in their preferred environment.
- Insurance Underwriters (59%): Much of the work of underwriters involves data analysis and risk assessment, tasks that can be done remotely. This allows employers to reduce office space and overhead costs, while underwriters can enjoy the flexibility of remote work.
- Claims Adjusters and Appraisers (57%): While some fieldwork may be necessary, much of the paperwork and analysis can be done remotely. This allows for a more flexible work schedule and reduces commuting time and costs.
- Travel Agents (56%): With the digitalization of travel bookings, agents can work from anywhere. This allows employers to operate with a smaller physical footprint, and agents can provide services to clients across different time zones.
Ranking by Remote Work
Based on this American Community Survey data, the ranking of jobs by percentage of remote work varies significantly across industries and locations. White-collar jobs such as software developers and management analysts have higher rates of remote work opportunities compared to blue-collar jobs like file clerks and secretaries. This means that workers in certain industries have more flexibility when it comes to commuting, work-life balance, and location flexibility.
Interestingly, San Jose, San Francisco, and Washington have the highest share of remote-friendly jobs. As a result, these cities may experience a shift in office demand and housing market dynamics as more companies adopt remote work policies.
It’s worth noting that this list is subject to change as industries settle into new expectations for remote work during the pandemic era. Nonetheless, understanding which occupations are most likely to allow for remote work can provide valuable insights into how we live our lives and plan our careers in the future.
Impact on Work and Life
The effects of remote work on commuting, work-life balance, and location flexibility have been widely observed across various industries and occupations. Remote work has the potential to eliminate lengthy commutes, allowing employees to save time and money.
Work-life balance can also improve as remote workers have more control over their schedules and can better manage personal responsibilities. In addition, remote work offers greater location flexibility, allowing employees to live in areas that are not necessarily close to their workplace.
However, the impact of remote work varies depending on the job function and individual preferences. Some workers may struggle with feeling isolated or disconnected from their colleagues while working remotely. Others may find it difficult to separate their personal life from their professional responsibilities when working from home.
Furthermore, certain industries require a physical presence for successful collaboration or hands-on tasks. As such, while remote work offers many benefits, it is important for companies and individuals alike to consider the specific needs of each role before making decisions about transitioning to a fully remote setup.
Variation by Job and Location
Remote work opportunities vary depending on the industry and location, with some jobs offering greater flexibility than others, much like a patchwork quilt with differing patterns and colors. Software developers and management analysts have more remote work opportunities than file clerks and secretaries. The pandemic has also impacted remote work availability differently across industries and locations. San Jose, San Francisco, and Washington are among the cities with the highest share of remote-friendly jobs.
However, white-collar jobs do not necessarily guarantee remote work options either. While lawyers may be able to work remotely during non-courtroom days, court reporters must be present in-person for legal proceedings. Additionally, some companies may prefer in-person collaboration for certain tasks or projects. As such, it is important to consider job function when assessing remote work possibilities.
Changing Expectations
Expectations for work arrangements are evolving, as industries and companies settle into new norms of flexibility and in-person collaboration. The pandemic has accelerated the shift towards remote work, but it remains to be seen how much of this trend will stick in the long term.
Many workers have found that they enjoy the benefits of working from home, such as avoiding a commute and having more control over their schedule. However, some companies may still prefer employees to be physically present in the office for certain tasks or simply because they believe it is necessary for effective collaboration.
As industries continue to adapt, it is likely that there will be significant variation in remote work opportunities depending on the field and company culture. Some jobs may become permanently remote-friendly while others may revert back to pre-pandemic expectations.
It is also important to consider how these changes will impact not just individual workers but also broader economic trends such as demand for office space and housing markets. As we continue to navigate this evolving landscape, it will be important for employers and employees alike to remain flexible and adaptable in order to find the best balance between productivity, collaboration, and quality of life.
Economic and Housing Effects
Given the varying degrees of remote work opportunities across different industries and companies, it is important to consider how this shift in work arrangements will impact not just individual workers but also broader economic trends such as demand for office space and housing markets.
The increasing prevalence of remote work has led to a decrease in demand for traditional office spaces, particularly in densely populated urban areas where high rents and crowded commutes have been perennial concerns. This trend may lead to a reduction in the overall cost of living for workers who no longer need to live close to their workplace.
However, there are potential downsides as well. The increased flexibility that comes with remote work may exacerbate existing inequalities between different regions or socio-economic groups. For example, if more high-paying jobs become fully remote, it could create an even greater concentration of wealth in cities with already high costs of living like San Francisco or New York City.
Additionally, while some workers may appreciate the ability to live further from city centers or pursue hobbies outside of work without worrying about commuting time, others might struggle with feelings of isolation or difficulty separating work from home life.
Ultimately, the long-term effects of widespread remote work on economic and social factors remain uncertain and will likely depend on a variety of complex factors that extend beyond individual job types or industries.
Other interesting data that you might be interested in:
What is the percentage of remote workers in 2023?
| Key Data Point | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Full-time employees working from home (2023) | 12.7% |
| Full-time employees working in a hybrid model (2023) | 28.2% |
| Full-time employees working in-office (2023) | 59.1% |
| Projected number of Americans working remotely (2025) | 32.6 million (approx. 22% of the workforce) |
| Workers who want to work remotely at least part of the time | 98% |
| Employers planning to continue conducting job interviews remotely | 93% |
| Companies operating fully remote | 16% |
A significant 12.7% of full-time employees have fully embraced the remote work model, a testament to the growing acceptance of this flexible work arrangement. Meanwhile, the hybrid work model, which marries the benefits of both home and office environments, is being adopted by a substantial 28.2% of employees. This trend underscores the evolving definition of a ‘workplace’ in the modern era.
However, it’s important to note that traditional in-office work remains the norm for a majority of the workforce, with 59.1% of employees still operating within this model. This serves as a reminder that while the remote work revolution is underway, the traditional office setup retains its relevance.
Looking to the future, the trajectory of remote work is set to continue its upward climb. By 2025, it’s projected that a whopping 32.6 million Americans will be working remotely, representing approximately 22% of the workforce. This forecast paints a picture of a future where remote work is not just an alternative, but a mainstream mode of operation.
In line with this trend, the workforce’s preference for remote work is overwhelmingly clear. A near-unanimous 98% of workers have expressed a desire to work remotely at least part of the time. This figure underscores the appeal of remote work, with its promise of flexibility, autonomy, and a better work-life balance.
From the employer’s perspective, the shift towards remote work is equally apparent. A significant 93% of employers plan to continue conducting job interviews remotely, signaling a readiness to adapt to the virtual landscape and an acknowledgment of remote work as a viable, long-term strategy.
Furthermore, 16% of companies have already taken the leap to become fully remote, operating without a physical office. These trailblazers in the remote work revolution demonstrate the feasibility of such models and set a precedent for other companies to follow.
What are the best industries for remote work?
As we navigate the evolving landscape of work in 2023, certain industries in the U.S. are leading the charge in embracing remote business models. The shift towards remote work is not just a temporary response to global events, but a strategic move that recognizes the benefits of flexible work arrangements.
Topping the list is the Management & Consulting industry, with a significant 19.4% of jobs being remote. This sector, which encompasses roles aimed at optimizing a company’s potential through strategic advice in areas such as finance and HR, has demonstrated that physical presence in an office is not always necessary for impactful results.
Here’s a look at the top 10 industries in the U.S. with the highest demand for remote workers:
| Rank | Industry | The % of jobs that are remote in the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Management & Consulting | 19.4% |
| 2 | Media & Communication | 15.9% |
| 3 | Information Technology | 15.4% |
| 4 | Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology | 14.0% |
| 5 | Personal Consumer Services | 13.8% |
| 6 | Finance | 13.3% |
| 7 | Government & Public Administration | 10.4% |
| 8 | Healthcare | 9.5% |
| 9 | Telecommunications | 9.4% |
| 10 | Real Estate | 9.1% |
These industries are not only adapting to the changing work environment but are also setting a precedent for others to follow. The shift towards remote work is reshaping the way we think about work and productivity, and these industries are at the forefront of this transformation.
What jobs have the highest percentage of remote workers?
The world of work is rapidly evolving, with remote work opportunities becoming increasingly prevalent across a variety of sectors. As companies strive to attract and retain top talent, they are reevaluating their business models to accommodate the growing demand for flexibility. This shift is particularly evident in certain job roles and industries, which are leading the way in remote work opportunities for 2022 and beyond.
Based on an analysis of over six million job ads on Glassdoor across the UK and US, Remote.com has identified the job roles and industries that currently offer the most remote career opportunities. The study also examined the salaries offered for these remote roles, revealing some of the most lucrative opportunities and how they compare to industry averages.
Here’s a summary of the key findings:
| Job Role | % of Remote Jobs in the US | % of Remote Jobs in the UK |
|---|---|---|
| Web Developer | 36.93% | 31.39% |
| Software Engineer | 36.16% | 29.14% |
| Data Scientist | 30.50% | 17.46% |
| Copywriter | 28.88% | 14.81% |
| Architect | 26.75% | 12.38% |
In both the US and UK, web developers and software engineers have the highest chance of finding a remote job opportunity. Interestingly, while translator jobs rank as the third-highest job role offered as remote in the UK, in the US the percentage of remote roles for translators doesn’t even feature in the top 20.
The study also highlighted the industries that are most rapidly embracing remote business models:
| Rank | Industry | % of Remote Jobs in the US | % of Remote Jobs in the UK |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Management & Consulting | 19.4% | 12.7% |
| 2 | Media & Communication | 15.9% | 10.4% |
| 3 | Information Technology | 15.4% | 13.9% |
| 4 | Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology | 14.0% | 10.4% |
| 5 | Personal Consumer Services | 13.8% | 9.2% |
In the US, the management and consulting industry is the most in-demand industry for remote workers, while in the UK, the information technology industry takes the lead.
What is the No 1 city to work remotely?
The advent of remote work has opened up a world of possibilities, literally. With just an internet connection and a laptop, you can work from anywhere, be it a bustling city or a tranquil beach. This flexibility has given rise to a new breed of professionals known as digital nomads, who work while they travel or live in different locations. As this lifestyle gains popularity, certain cities around the world are emerging as hotspots for remote work, offering a blend of connectivity, affordability, and quality of life.
Based on a blog post by My Baggage, here are seven of the best cities in the world to work remotely in:
| Rank | City | Country | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lisbon | Portugal | Affordable cost of living, digital nomad visa, quick internet speeds, robust ex-pat community |
| 2 | Tallinn | Estonia | Digital nomad visa, charming medieval streetscapes, booming digital economy, 24/7 public services |
| 3 | Mexico City | Mexico | Vibrant culture, explosive culinary scene, efficient metro system, high-speed internet, affordable living costs |
| 4 | Vancouver | Canada | Diverse city with plenty of cafes, bars, museums, parks, high-speed internet, and beautiful working spaces |
| 5 | Istanbul | Turkey | Rich culture, history, affordable living, easy internet access, freelancer-friendly visa options |
| 6 | Singapore | Singapore | Melting pot of cultures, stable economy, high-speed internet, eco-friendly, clean, safe |
| 7 | Barcelona | Spain | Breathtaking architecture, beaches, relaxed atmosphere, high-speed internet, great food and drink |
