Research reveals commuting patterns of nurses and midwives
Categories: Research using linked data, Research findings, Data Insights, ADR Scotland, Health & wellbeing, World of work
10 September 2025
How far nurses and midwives travel to work, and how they get there, can impact their wellbeing, job satisfaction, and even the ability of the health service to retain staff. A new Data Insight from ADR Scotland highlights these commuting patterns using 2021 Census data, comparing nurses and midwives with other professionals across England and Wales.
Car remains the dominant mode of travel
Car travel is by far the most common way to get to work for both groups, with over 70% commuting by car or van (74% of nurses and midwives, 78% of others).
Other modes were less common, though nurses were more likely than other professionals to take the bus (6.0% vs 3.4%) or walk (10.5% vs 7.8%). Rail travel was used less by nurses (3.8% vs 7.2%).
Most journeys are short – but not for everyone
The majority of commutes fell between 5 and 20 kilometres. Around 22% of nurses and midwives travelled 10–20 km, and 19% travelled 5–10 km.
Nurses and midwives were also more likely than other professionals to live close to work:
- 17% lived within two kilometres (compared with 14% of others)
- 20% lived 2–5 km away (compared with 17%)
At the other end of the scale, long commutes were relatively rare: just 1.5% of nurses and midwives travelled 60 km or more, compared with 2.7% of other professionals.
Differences within the nursing workforce
Male nurses and rail commuters were more likely to face long journeys, while older nurses tended to live closer to work. Nurses working longer hours were also more likely to travel further.
Why this matters
Heavy reliance on cars highlights ongoing dependence on private transport, while higher bus and walking rates among nurses compared to other professionals suggest vulnerability to local housing and transport conditions.
For some groups facing longer distances – notably, male nurses, rail users, and those working long hours – commuting could also affect job satisfaction and retention.
What’s next?
This research provides a baseline for further exploring how commuting relates to wellbeing, unpaid care responsibilities, and the environmental impact of travel. The findings can inform workforce planning, housing policy, and transport provision, helping ensure nurses and midwives can get to work safely, sustainably, and without added stress.
