The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in the way people work, with remote and hybrid work becoming more prevalent in California. According to the November PPIC Statewide Survey, a substantial portion of Californians have embraced remote work as a long-term option. The survey revealed that 14% of Californians work remotely all the time, while 21% work in a mix of remote and in-person settings. This shift towards remote work has been a source of job satisfaction for many workers in the state.
Despite the benefits of remote work, not all Californians have the option to work from home. Job types and work situations vary widely across demographic groups and regions. Approximately four in ten employed Californians state that their work can be done remotely, a figure that has remained consistent since November 2022. However, there have been notable shifts in the prevalence of remote work among different groups. For instance, the share of African Americans who have the option to work remotely has increased by 9 percentage points, while Latinos remain the least likely racial/ethnic group to have this option.
When asked about their work preferences for the future, nearly four in ten employed adults expressed a preference for full-time, in-person work, while about three in ten preferred full-time remote work. One in three individuals indicated a preference for a hybrid work arrangement. Interestingly, the preference for in-person work was slightly higher in 2021. Despite this, half or more individuals across regions and demographic groups prefer a hybrid or fully remote work setup over in-person work.
The alignment between workplace preferences and current work situations is evident among most employed Californians. The majority of fully remote workers prefer remote work, while hybrid workers prefer a mix of remote and in-person work. In contrast, in-person workers are increasingly expressing a desire for remote or hybrid work options. This trend suggests a growing preference for flexibility in work arrangements.
The positive impact of remote work on job satisfaction is further supported by the findings that most California workers are satisfied with their jobs, citing stable pay, predictable hours, and opportunities for growth and advancement. Remote work also offers benefits such as reduced commuting time and costs. A Gallup poll conducted this summer revealed that a significant percentage of remote and hybrid workers would consider leaving an organization that did not offer remote flexibility.
As remote work continues to be a mainstay option for many working Californians, it is essential for organizations and employers to consider the evolving preferences of their employees. PPIC will continue to monitor Californians’ workplace preferences and opinions on remote, hybrid, and in-person work as workplaces adapt to the changing landscape.
