Work-from-Home Desires in the Post-COVID Workplace: Managerial and Gender Heterogeneity

This study explores preferences for work-from-home (WFH) among U.S. wage and salaried workers in the post-COVID era with a focus on gender and managerial heterogeneity. Using data from the Survey of Working Arrangements and Attitudes collected between April 2023 and January 2024, we analyze how demographic and work-related factors influence WFH preferences. Our findings reveal that women generally express a stronger preference for WFH than men. However, a nuanced picture emerges for female managers, particularly those aged 40 and older, who prefer fewer WFH days compared to non-manager women. Furthermore, we find that higher education, the presence of children, higher incomes, and racial minority groups (specifically Black and Hispanic individuals) are positively associated with a greater desire for WFH. These findings underscore the complex interplay among individual circumstances, the pursuit of work-life balance, leadership approaches, and persistent gender norms within households and workplaces that shape WFH preferences. Understanding these factors is crucial for organizations to design inclusive workplace policies and cultures that benefit both employees and the organization.