Teleworking and Remote Schooling During the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant increase in teleworking, with 46% of workers teleworking at least part-time during early 2021, compared to just over 10% before the pandemic. Although teleworking rates have declined since the pandemic’s peak, they remain much higher than pre-pandemic levels, with 21.9% of workers teleworking at least some hours by December 2023.

Many workers prefer teleworking due to improved work-life balance and flexibility, with some valuing the option to work from home at 5% of their pay, particularly women and parents with young children. The pandemic also caused widespread school closures, adding to the shift toward remote work and flexible schedules.