Survey Highlights Long Travel Times as a Major Source of Dissatisfaction
A recent survey conducted by YouGov for Budget Direct Insurance has revealed that 95% of Singaporeans consider commuting time an essential factor when searching for new job opportunities. The study, which included responses from 1,055 individuals, found that workers in Singapore experience higher dissatisfaction levels when facing extended travel times, with 77% stating that daily commutes of 61 to 75 minutes are excessive.
How Singaporeans Commute
According to the survey, 60% of workers rely on the MRT, while 56% use public buses. Walking to work is an option for 25%, whereas only 23% commute by car. Meanwhile, 12% prefer ride-hailing services, while smaller percentages opt for bicycles (6%) or motorcycles (3%).
When selecting their mode of transport, 69% prioritise convenience, followed by travel time (66%) and cost (60%).
Hybrid Work Trends and Peak Office Days
The report also highlighted working arrangements in Singapore, showing that 57% of employees have fully returned to the office, while 40% follow hybrid or remote work models. Among hybrid workers, Wednesdays see the highest office attendance, with 69% choosing to work in person. On Fridays, the number drops to 41%, while only 10% go in on Saturdays and 5% on Sundays.
Public Transport Expansion and Future Developments
As Singapore continues efforts to create a car-lite society, major transport infrastructure projects are underway. By 2030, the MRT network is expected to expand to 360 kilometres, while the cycling path network is projected to reach 1,000 kilometres by 2040. Initiatives such as the Cross Island Line and the Jurong Region Line aim to improve connectivity and reduce travel time across the city-state.
Meanwhile, discussions about commuting challenges remain active among Singaporeans. Last week, a worker took to social media to ask for job suggestions that would allow him to avoid travelling during rush hour, expressing frustration over feeling like a “packed sardine” in crowded MRT trains.
