Working from Home in Surrey: A Lifestyle-Led Shift
Surrey Property Finder Maddy Simpson shares her perspective on working from home in Surrey, drawing on her experience helping clients find homes that balance professional flexibility with a lifestyle that works for them.
The pandemic reshaped how many people live and work. The shift toward hybrid and remote working has prompted a growing number of people to reassess what’s needed from a home. With commuting now often limited to just a couple of days a week, the county’s strong links to London are a significant advantage.
For those seeking more space, greenery and a calmer pace, Surrey offers an equilibrium of professional accessibility paired with rural ease.
Many buyers now look for locations where they can easily walk or drive to a local coffee shop or farm shop cafe for a meeting, to enjoy lunch, or find shared co-working spaces. It’s this blend of connectivity, character, and community that continues to define Surrey’s appeal.
Why Surrey suits the new way of living
For professionals who still value proximity to London, Surrey offers the best of both worlds. Direct trains from Guildford, Woking and Reigate reach central London, often in under an hour, making it practical for those commuting into the office a few days a week, while a strong network of A-roads and motorways makes travel straightforward.
Yet once home, the pace changes entirely. Surrey’s towns and villages each have their own rhythm, from the vibrancy of market towns to the stillness of rural hamlets, allowing residents to find the balance that suits them best.
A home that works harder
Today’s buyers are more conscious of how their homes shape daily life. Properties with flexible interiors, reliable connectivity, and natural light are increasingly sought-after, as they make remote work both efficient and enjoyable.
For many, the need for one or even two dedicated home offices has become a key consideration, space that allows couples or families to work productively without compromise.
Dedicated offices, converted lofts, and insulated garden studios have moved from nice-to-have to essential for many.
Outdoor space has become a natural extension of the working day, providing a place for a mid-morning coffee, a breath of fresh air, or a quick reset between meetings.
With increasingly strong broadband coverage and smart‑home upgrades across many parts of the county, working from home in Surrey feels less like a compromise and more like an evolution in how we live.
Lifestyle at your doorstep
Surrey’s great strength lies in how seamlessly work and lifestyle coexist. The county’s rolling countryside, wooded trails, and riverside paths encourage an active routine. From morning runs through the Surrey Hills and Nordic walking to strolls with friends and evening dog walks, Surrey offers a thriving outdoor culture.
The village of Peaslake is a prime example, loved by mountain bikers for its miles of trails and relaxed post-ride atmosphere, complete with a bike shop, pub, and village store.
Wellness sits at the heart of many communities, with Pilates and yoga classes in studios, village halls, or in people’s homes.
Surrey’s towns offer an equally rewarding pace: independent shops, artisan coffee houses, markets, and excellent restaurants all contribute to a sense of belonging. Add reputable schools and safe neighbourhoods, and it’s easy to see why so many choose to make this their long-term base.
Property market insights
According to the 2021 Census, 44.1% of employed Surrey residents reported mainly working from home, evidence of how naturally the county supports this way of life. Values in the county have stayed strong, especially in areas within a 10-minute drive of a train station.
Homes that provide flexibility, such as those with adaptable layouts, gardens, strong transport connections, and cleaner air, consistently attract buyers seeking balance.
For anyone working from home in Surrey, proximity to local amenities, community hubs, and outdoor space adds everyday value.
While the property landscape varies from town to town, one constant remains: success comes from understanding each area’s nuances and acting with informed confidence.
Ideal locations for working from home in Surrey
For homebuyers rethinking how and where they live, these Surrey locations continue to stand out:
Esher and Cobham
Sophisticated and internationally connected, Esher and Cobham combine smart high streets with leafy avenues and generous plots. These areas are ideal for those seeking substantial homes within easy reach of London’s international schools and business districts.
Farnham
Known for its Georgian high street and period architecture, Farnham pairs character with community. Surrounded by green space and offering good rail connections, it’s well-suited to those who want classic charm without losing modern convenience.
Haslemere
With its rural backdrop and dependable train links, Haslemere offers space to breathe and a strong sense of belonging. The town centre blends independent boutiques with coffee shops and eateries, creating an easy everyday rhythm.
Reigate
A lively market town at the foot of the North Downs, Reigate offers a walkable lifestyle, outstanding schools, and excellent rail access. Period homes and green spaces add to its appeal for families and professionals alike.
Godalming
Set beside the River Wey, Godalming combines scenic riverside walks with strong commuter connections. Its thriving community, independent shops and nearby villages make it a consistently popular choice for buyers seeking balance.
Weybridge and Guildford
Both blend town convenience with open green space. Weybridge’s riverside setting and Guildford’s cultural and shopping scene offer something for everyone, and both provide a swift commute to Waterloo in as little as 30 minutes on the fastest services, making them ideal for professionals balancing homeworking with occasional trips into the capital.
Each area offers a different way to experience working from home in Surrey, from countryside calm to commuter-town convenience; they all share a quality of life that’s hard to replicate.
Working from home in Surrey
Remote and hybrid working continue to shape what buyers look for. Choosing a home that offers flexibility in layout, connectivity, and lifestyle creates long-term adaptability.
For many, a move to Surrey represents more than a change of address; it’s a decision to live well, stay connected, and invest in a home that evolves with their needs.
If you’re considering a move or would like tailored guidance on finding a property that supports your work and lifestyle, Garrington can help. With local insight and a bespoke approach, our team ensures your next move is both informed and inspired.
Get in touch to begin your search.
Further reading: Best places to live in Surrey
