London Commuting Experiences?
Starting as a TS (FDD) Analyst at a Big 4 firm later this month, currently commuting 1 hour in and ~1hr 45 back from just outside London (living with parents, so banking as much as possible, primarily for a deposit). Long-term, I aim to move into MM IB post-CA, a well-trodden path, though one that would make my current commute even more unsustainable.
Ideally, after three years/getting the CA, I’d buy a flat within 15–30 mins of the City to improve quality of life, even if it means less space. However, my partner prefers the idea of buying a house in a commuter town after three years, to make a home, but with 1hr+ commutes (she even suggested Reading).
I plan to make/am making my case, but I was hoping to hear from those working in London: how important has a short commute been for your well-being and career?
A short commute can significantly impact both your well-being and career, especially in demanding roles like TS (FDD) or IB. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key insights:
Well-being and Burnout:
Long commutes can be a major contributor to burnout, particularly in high-pressure environments. Analysts often work long hours, and adding a lengthy commute can eat into precious downtime or sleep. As one user noted, even an extra hour of sleep daily is worth the higher rent in central locations like Manhattan (or the City in your case). The mental and physical toll of a long commute can affect your productivity and overall health.
Career Impact:
Proximity to work can enhance your career by allowing you to be more flexible and available for last-minute tasks or networking opportunities. A shorter commute also means more time to focus on professional development, which is crucial if you're aiming to transition into MM IB post-CA.
Compromises and Long-term Plans:
While your partner's preference for a house in a commuter town like Reading is understandable, it’s worth considering the trade-offs. A 1-hour+ commute might seem manageable initially, but over time, it could strain your energy and limit your ability to fully engage with work and social opportunities in the City. Many professionals on WSO have emphasized the value of living closer to work, even if it means sacrificing space for convenience and quality of life.
Middle Ground:
If buying a flat within 15–30 minutes of the City aligns with your career goals and well-being, it might be worth discussing a compromise with your partner. For example, you could consider areas that offer a balance between proximity to work and a more residential feel, such as Canary Wharf, Greenwich, or even parts of East London.
Ultimately, a shorter commute can be a game-changer for your quality of life and career trajectory. It’s important to weigh the long-term benefits of being closer to work against the immediate appeal of more space in a commuter town.
Sources: The future of LA, IBD analysts how long is your commute?, Why You Should Leave NYC After Your Analyst Stint, Return to Office Sucks, The best of the back (or middle) office?
You can always rent in central London for a year or two sitting on your savings before making a decision once you make the move.
You are going to literally kill yourself if you're commuting an hour+ to IB job as an analyst/junior asso.
It's unsustainable, especially given the quality of TfL. I'm in my early 30s, work far cushier hours than someone in IBD, and I hate my 30 minute seven stop commute on the Jubilee Line. At least once a week get severe delays. Maybe if you're on a direct, 100% overground line it's better but I'd only work in a commuter town long term if I could wfh at least 3 days a week.
Commuting from outside of London I find crazy and definitely unsustainable.
Curious to hear if people would do a 40-50minute journey from one side of London to the other however ie. West London to Canary Wharf or Stratford to Mayfair - if it meant saving 10-15k
1hr 45 min I would go insane. No job is worth that.
its not the job - its the fact that even bankers cant afford to buy nice houses near where they live
Ignore title - currently doing 35 to 40min from South London to Canary Wharf while being Asso 2, and it is very hard sometimes. Wanted to take a bike (Tmax or Forza 750) but there are so much thefts that I can’t.
Libero quam consequatur ex sit cum. Voluptas ab laudantium repudiandae dignissimos pariatur amet enim ab. Necessitatibus reprehenderit porro quasi eveniet consequatur. Quos repudiandae itaque neque quia suscipit. Eligendi vero modi quasi dolor et. Voluptatum rem et cum.
Consequatur asperiores maxime laboriosam deleniti deserunt ducimus nemo. Cupiditate praesentium eum tempore officia recusandae exercitationem architecto. Praesentium aut sed aspernatur tempora sed. Assumenda dignissimos excepturi saepe ut nulla doloremque.
Sint quasi cumque quia suscipit quas. Voluptatem facere voluptatem recusandae iusto ex et cum quia. Saepe dolor neque omnis atque.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...