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Work from Home Before and After the COVID-19 Outbreak

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Abstract

Based on novel survey data, we document a persistent rise in work from home (WFH) over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Using theory and direct survey evidence, we argue that three quarters of this increase reflects adoption of new work arrangements that will likely be permanent for many workers. A quantitative model matched to survey data predicts that twice as many workers will WFH full-time post-pandemic compared to pre-pandemic, and that one in every five instead of seven workdays will be WFH. These model predictions are consistent with survey evidence on workers' own expectations about WFH in the future.

Suggested Citation

  • Alexander Bick & Adam Blandin & Karel Mertens, 2022. "Work from Home Before and After the COVID-19 Outbreak," Working Papers 2022-008, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
    • Handle: RePEc:fip:fedlwp:93893
    DOI: 10.20955/wp.2022.008
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    work from home; telecommuting; telework; remote work; COVID-19;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J1 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics
    • J2 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor
    • J22 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Time Allocation and Labor Supply
    • I18 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health
    • R4 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Transportation Economics

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