New research from BHN Extras, released on Cycle to Work Day 2026, reveals the increasing strain commuting is placing on employees’ wellbeing, career decisions and quality of life.
The findings suggest the daily commute has become more than simply a journey to and from work, with many employees increasingly viewing it as a factor in their overall job satisfaction.
“The commute has become a much more important part of the employee experience than many organisations realise. When nearly half of workers say they would consider changing jobs for a better commute, it’s clear that the journey to work is influencing how people feel about their role before they even arrive.”
“Our research shows there is a growing appetite for commuting options that give people greater flexibility, control and enjoyment. Cycling can play a powerful role in improving wellbeing, while helping people make better use of the time they spend travelling to and from work.”
Peter Dando, Senior Director of Employee Benefits & Recognition at BHN Extras
The true cost of commuting
For many workers, the commute is taking a toll on both their wellbeing and their time. Almost half (49%) of UK workers say they would consider changing jobs for a shorter or more enjoyable commute, rising to 68% of Tube and tram users and 63% of train commuters. By comparison, just one-third (33%) of people who walk to work say they would consider switching jobs for a better journey.
For the average UK worker, commuting represents a significant investment of both time and money. Employees spend more than 11 full days a year commuting, while costs average almost £1,000 annually. With many workers reporting that commuting takes time away from exercise, leisure activities and personal wellbeing, the daily journey is increasingly being viewed as more than simply a route to work.
In fact, 43% of workers agree that commuting drains their time, energy or money, highlighting the wider personal cost of the daily journey and reinforcing why so many employees are seeking more convenient and enjoyable ways to get to work.
The research also highlights stark differences in how people experience their journey to work. Almost half (46%) of workers who walk to work describe their commute as relaxing, compared with just 17% of Tube and tram users – the lowest score of any transport mode.
Workers are looking for healthier, more enjoyable ways to travel
As employees look for greater flexibility and control over their daily journeys, many are exploring alternative ways to commute. One-third (33%) of workers say they are considering cycling as part of their commute, highlighting growing interest in active travel and healthier ways of getting to work.
Active commuting is already gaining traction, with 21% of workers saying they currently cycle or have taken up cycling previously, including 9% who started within the last year.
For many, cycling represents more than simply a mode of transport. It might offer an opportunity to incorporate movement into the working day, support wellbeing and create a more positive commuting experience. This may be particularly appealing at a time when more than a quarter (27%) of workers say their commute negatively affects their mental wellbeing.
“More people are recognising that how they travel to work has a real impact on their health, wellbeing and quality of life, and it’s encouraging to see growing interest in cycling and e-bikes as part of the daily commute. Cycling offers a practical way to build physical activity into the day, reduce the cost of travelling to work and make the journey itself a more positive experience.
The challenge now is helping more people turn that interest into action. Too many employees are still unaware of the support available through the Cycle to Work Scheme, despite the difference it can make. By promoting the scheme more effectively and continuing to invest in safe, accessible cycling infrastructure, employers and policymakers can help make cycling a realistic option for many more people.”
Steve Edgell, Chair of the Cycle to Work Alliance
E-bikes could unlock the next wave of commuter cycling
The research also points to strong demand for e-bikes as a practical way to make active commuting more accessible.
Four in ten (40%) workers agree that e-bikes make cycling to work feel more accessible, while 44% say access to an e-bike would encourage them to cycle more. Among those who do not currently use an e-bike, nearly two-thirds (65%) say they would consider one if they were to cycle to work.
Despite this appetite, awareness of employer support remains mixed. Only around half (53%) of workers say they are aware of whether their employer offers a Cycle to Work scheme and how it works, while 46% either lack awareness, have limited knowledge or are unsure what support is available.
The findings suggest employers have an opportunity to better promote existing schemes and help more employees understand the benefits on offer.
You can access the full research here.
