As remote work has taken off since the pandemic, many professionals in various fields find themselves wondering: are coworking spaces worth the cost? For those tired of working from home or feeling limited in coffee shops, coworking spaces offer a tempting alternative.
This article examines the benefits and potential downsides of coworking spaces compared to working from home or a coffee shop to help you decide if it’s worth the investment.
The Benefits of Coworking Spaces
Working from home offers convenience and cost-effectiveness, but coworking spaces provide a sense of community and a more structured work environment that many find beneficial.
- Community and Networking Opportunities
Many remote workers and digital nomads find a sense of community lacking when they’re isolated in their home offices. Coworking spaces bring together a mix of professionals, from freelancers to entrepreneurs, allowing for organic networking opportunities. Some coworking memberships even include exclusive networking events, fostering relationships that can lead to partnerships or collaborations across various fields.
- Improved Mental Health and Work-Life Balance
Working from home can blur the line between personal and professional life, affecting one’s work-life balance. Having a separate office environment helps create mental separation, which is beneficial for well-being. A daily commute—even if it’s just a short one to the coworking space—provides time to mentally shift between personal and professional roles. Many find that establishing a regular routine helps them become more productive and happier with their work environment.
- Physical Health Benefits
It’s easy to stay stationary at home, but a coworking space encourages movement. The commute itself gets you up and active, and some coworking spaces even offer access to gyms or standing desks. Additionally, coworking spaces often have ergonomic office equipment, which can prevent the physical strain that sometimes comes with a home office setup.
- Educational Workshops and Resources
Coworking spaces often host educational workshops or offer access to resources like office supplies and high-speed internet. These events are often included in the membership fee and can provide valuable learning opportunities without additional cost.
- Meeting Rooms for Professional Gatherings
Meeting clients at a coffee shop may work in some situations, but coworking spaces offer the privacy and professionalism of reservable meeting rooms. And even if you have a cushy home office setup, you might not have a clean and professional space in your home to meet clients. Conference rooms in coworking spaces create a comfortable, client-ready environment that doesn’t require sharing your home address.
OK, But What About Coffee Shops?
While coffee shops offer a change of scenery, coworking spaces are specifically designed for productivity and connection.
- Reliable Wi-Fi and Phone Booths
One drawback of working at a coffee shop is the potential for unstable internet connections — or WiFi policies that kick you off after an hour or two. Coworking spaces, however, provide reliable high-speed internet, allowing you to work without interruptions. Additionally, coworking spaces often include phone booths or private rooms, giving you a place to take calls without disrupting others.
- Cost Savings on Food and Drink
Working at a coffee shop is not as cost-effective as it may seem if you want to log long workdays away from home. Most coffee shops require you to make a purchase at least every two hours to justify your presence. Coworking spaces allow you to bring your own lunch, which can save money over time. Some spaces even offer coffee or snacks as part of the membership, which can help offset the cost of membership.
- Focus and Productivity
Coworking spaces offer an environment dedicated to work, helping you stay focused for longer stretches. Many remote workers find it easier to dive into complex projects in a coworking space than in a bustling coffee shop. The design of coworking spaces, with options like hot desks or dedicated desks, supports varied working styles.
- Building Relationships with Other Professionals
Unlike the transient environment of a coffee shop, coworking spaces offer a collaborative environment that promotes relationship-building. The connections you make in a coworking space can evolve into a support network that’s valuable, whether you’re a remote worker or managing your own startup business.
Downsides of Coworking Spaces Compared to Working from Home
Despite the benefits, coworking spaces aren’t for everyone. Here are a few potential drawbacks to consider.
- Membership Fees and Pricing
Coworking membership does come at a cost, and not all professionals can justify the expense. Memberships at coworking spaces in Madison, Wisconsin, cost $150 per month on average for a hot desk, with some spaces charging much higher rates for private spaces. However, many companies provide reimbursement for coworking fees, making it easier for remote workers to cover membership costs.
- Commuting Time
For those who cherish the lack of a commute, adding travel time to a coworking space can feel like a drawback. However, the commute can add a sense of routine and structure to your workday, which many find beneficial.
- Open Office Environment
Coworking spaces often have an open layout, which can be challenging for those who don’t thrive in shared spaces. That said, many coworking spaces offer a mix of shared workspace and private offices, allowing you to choose an environment that suits your working style and budget.
Conclusion: Are Coworking Spaces Worth It?
Whether you’re a freelancer, a business owner, or a remote worker, coworking spaces offer a unique work environment that can balance productivity and social connection. With high-speed Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, phone booths, and networking events, coworking spaces provide amenities that both enhance professional success and support mental well-being. While working from home and coffee shops have their own appeal, a shared office space might be the key to a more fulfilling remote work experience—an investment that can improve both your work and personal life.
We hope this discussion of the pros and cons of coworking spaces helps you make a choice that aligns with your needs, work style, and budget. If you are someone who values structure, community, and a dedicated office environment, we’d love to have you join us at 100state! Book a tour today.
