Microsoft now requires Puget Sound employees who live within 50 miles of a Microsoft office to work on site three days a week, effective by the end of February 2026. With three office days, where you live around the Redmond campus matters again. Updated September 2026.
The short version
- Three days a week on site for Puget Sound employees within 50 miles of an office, by the end of February 2026.
- The main campus is in Redmond; Sound Transit’s 2 Line serves it at Redmond Technology station.
- Redmond, Kirkland and Bellevue give the shortest commutes; Sammamish and Woodinville trade minutes for space.
- Your team may have additional expectations; confirm with your manager.
What the three-day rule means for where you live
Three office days is about 150 commutes a year. A 20-minute drive versus a 45-minute drive is roughly 125 hours a year, which is worth more to most families than an extra bedroom farther out.
Where Microsoft employees live
Times below are typical weekday ranges to the main Redmond campus.
| Area | Typical drive to the Redmond campus | Why people choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Redmond | 5 to 15 min | Shortest commute, newer housing, light rail access. |
| Kirkland | 15 to 25 min | Waterfront downtown, strong schools. |
| Bellevue | 15 to 25 min | Urban amenities, Bellevue School District, SR-520 or light rail. |
| Sammamish | 15 to 25 min | Larger lots, highly rated schools. |
| Woodinville | 15 to 25 min | Wine country setting, larger lots. |
| Bothell | 20 to 30 min | More approachable prices. |
| Issaquah | 20 to 30 min | Trails, I-90 access, more space. |
A 90-day relocation timeline
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 90 days out | Confirm start date and any relocation benefit, shortlist two or three areas. |
| 60 days out | Tour neighborhoods at commute hours, talk to a lender, decide rent versus buy. |
| 30 days out | Lock movers, confirm school enrollment steps, set up utilities. |
| First 60 days on the job | Test your real commute, then buy or sign a longer lease with real data. |
Frequently asked questions
When does the Microsoft three-day office policy start?
For Puget Sound employees living within 50 miles of a Microsoft office, the expectation is three days a week on site by the end of February 2026. Other locations follow on their own timelines.
Can I live in Seattle and work on the Redmond campus?
Yes, many do. SR-520 and the 2 Line connect Seattle to the Eastside, but plan for a longer and less predictable commute than living on the Eastside.
Should I rent or buy?
If your team and office are settled, buying early can work. If either may change, a lease near campus lets you test the commute first.
Talk it through before you choose
A 30-minute call is usually enough to match your commute, budget and school priorities to two or three neighborhoods. Book a 30-minute call with Justin Cicero, Managing Broker, or send your details. You can also compare every Eastside city side by side on the city comparisons page.
Commute times are typical weekday ranges and vary with traffic and exact address. Employer policies change; confirm office expectations and any relocation benefits with your employer. This is general information, not legal, tax or employment advice.