Are Remote Workers Really Working? What Coworking Data Says

Remote work has become one of the biggest changes in how people work around the world. More people now work from home or outside traditional offices than ever before.

But this new way of working comes with questions: Are remote workers truly productive? And if they are, why do many feel something important is still missing? In this blog, we will explore these questions in simple language and show how coworking spaces might be the missing link that helps remote workers do even better.

What Is Remote Work?

Remote work means doing your job from a place other than a traditional office. This could be from home, a café, or even another city or country. Since the pandemic, remote work has grown quickly. A 2025 report found that over 80% of people now work from home at least part of the time and many are fully remote workers.

People like remote work because it saves commute time, provides freedom, and often leads to higher job satisfaction. Let’s look at how this affects whether remote workers are “really working.”

Are Remote Workers Productive?

The idea that people at home might slack off is a common concern. But research shows something different:

• 85% of companies say productivity goes up when employees work remotely or with flexible schedules.

• Remote workers themselves often say they are more productive at home than in the office, because they avoid interruptions and control their own environment.

• One study even found remote workers produce the equivalent of an extra full workday each week because they are more efficient.

A large online discussion also supports these findings: many remote workers on Reddit explained that no daily commute and fewer interruptions helped them focus and get more work done.

So yes remote workers often work effectively, and in many cases even better than in offices.

But There’s a Catch

While remote workers can be productive, working from home isn’t perfect.

Challenges remote workers face:

• Feeling isolated or lonely because of lack of social interaction.

• Difficulty separating work time from personal time.

• Household distractions (like chores, noise, or family members).

• Lack of clear routine or structure each day.

Many remote workers enjoy the freedom of not commuting, but the isolation can make work feel lonely and slow down creativity or learning from others.

This is where coworking spaces come in.

What Are Coworking Spaces?

Coworking spaces are shared work locations where people from different companies or professions work together in the same space. These spaces usually offer:

• Desks and chairs

• Fast internet

• Meeting rooms

• Quiet zones

• Sometimes coffee, snacks, or events

They are used by freelancers, startups, remote employees, and even small teams.

Why Coworking Spaces Matter

Coworking spaces are growing fast because they help solve some of the big problems remote workers face. Here is how:

1. Coworking Helps Productivity

People who use coworking spaces report higher productivity:

Improvement Since Joining Coworking Space	Percentage of People
Income increase	51%
Work skills improved	49%
Productivity/output	46%
Creativity	45%
Mental health improved	45%
Work-life balance better	43%

2. Better Focus and Fewer Distractions

Coworking spaces are designed for work. This means fewer household interruptions and more people around you who are working hard too. Studies show that 70% of members report better health and focus, and many find they complete tasks faster.

3. Community and Relationships

Working with others even strangers, builds community. People in coworking spaces often meet new professionals and learn new ideas. Many enjoy the chance to share experiences and support each other. Reddit users often talk about how coworking builds collaboration and teamwork feelings that are hard to find at home.

4. Clear Work-Life Boundaries

One big problem of remote work is that your home and office are the same place. Coworking spaces create a clear separation: when you enter the space, you’re focused on work; when you leave, your workday is done. This helps people relax and recharge after work.

5. Professional Environment

Some remote workers feel that taking calls or meeting clients from a couch or kitchen table doesn’t feel professional. Coworking spaces give a more serious, business-like atmosphere.

Some Drawbacks of Coworking

Coworking spaces are very helpful, but they are not perfect for everyone. Some people report:

• Noise or distractions in open areas.

• Cost of membership can be high.

• Some people still need a quiet spot or very private office.

These issues show that while coworking spaces help many remote workers, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution.

So Are Remote Workers Really Working?

Yes. Research and real experiences show that remote workers are productive and often more efficient than in traditional offices. But remote work can feel lonely, undisciplined, and tiring for some people.

Coworking spaces are the missing link that brings together the best of both worlds: the freedom of remote work and the structure of an office. They boost productivity, reduce loneliness, and help people work with real focus and energy.

Remote work is not going away, but it is being improved. Coworking spaces are helping millions of people enjoy freedom while staying connected and productive. Together, they are shaping the future of work.