Here are some of my personal opinions on the topic...
I completely agree shorter commutes create happier workers. I also think employees are less likely to leave a job if they live close, happy or not... And of course, for most people, commutes are a waste of time, and thus to be avoided whenever possible. But, when it comes down to it sometimes there is no way to avoid commuting (family, a great job opportunity, $$$$, inbetween homes, etc).
I prefer living in the city. I don't understand why most people prefer a "McMansion" as it's been referred to. To me it makes more sense to live in the city and have a cabin/condo to get away on the weekends and holidays. Then again I don't have any kids (yet). And it seems that the McMansion neighborhoods seem to have better school districts, family oriented communities and are safer. So I understand living in a McMansion for those reasons. What I don't understand are the single or kid-less couples who still insist on the commute and the McMansion. Maybe it is partially a societal difference. I don't see my residence as an especially good investment, and that may differ from most people.
I completely agree shorter commutes create happier workers. I also think employees are less likely to leave a job if they live close, happy or not... And of course, for most people, commutes are a waste of time, and thus to be avoided whenever possible. But, when it comes down to it sometimes there is no way to avoid commuting (family, a great job opportunity, $$$$, inbetween homes, etc).
I prefer living in the city. I don't understand why most people prefer a "McMansion" as it's been referred to. To me it makes more sense to live in the city and have a cabin/condo to get away on the weekends and holidays. Then again I don't have any kids (yet). And it seems that the McMansion neighborhoods seem to have better school districts, family oriented communities and are safer. So I understand living in a McMansion for those reasons. What I don't understand are the single or kid-less couples who still insist on the commute and the McMansion. Maybe it is partially a societal difference. I don't see my residence as an especially good investment, and that may differ from most people.