Are workers with a long commute less productive? An empirical analysis of absenteeism

Abstract

We hypothesise, and test for, a negative effect of the length of the worker's commute on worker's productivity, by examining whether the commute has a positive effect on worker's absenteeism. We identify this effect using employer-induced changes in commuting distance. Our estimates for Germany indicate that commuting distance induces absenteeism with an elasticity of about 0.07 to 0.09. On average, absenteeism would be about 15 to 20 percent less if all workers would have a negligible commute. These results are consistent with extended urban efficiency wage models.