Relocating home or changing job? The impact of long commuting

Commuting is commonly perceived as a burdensome aspect of daily life, with adverse effects on individuals' physical and mental well-being and social interactions. Existing “search theory” suggests that people make decisions about job searches and home relocations by weighing the costs of commuting against the potential benefits, such as increased income and improved living conditions. However, few studies have thoroughly examined how and to what extent commuting influences home relocation and job mobility. Addressing this gap is essential for gaining a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between commuting and job-housing arrangements, and for informing policies aimed at improving urban spatial layouts, housing, and transportation services. This study uses four waves of longitudinal data on urban commuters in China to analyze the effects of commuting time on job move and home relocation through panel multinomial logistic regression models. It also explores the role of life and job satisfaction in this relationship. The findings reveal a significant association between longer commuting times and job mobility, particularly in cities with urban populations exceeding five million. Conversely, no statistically significant correlation is found between commuting time and home relocations. Longer commuting times are associated with decreased job satisfaction, which in turn increases the likelihood of changing jobs. Additionally, the study identifies a critical tolerance threshold for commuting time, noting an increased propensity for job changes when commuting exceeds 30 min. These insights contribute new knowledge on commuting dynamics and the intricate relationship between employment and housing.