More pay for in-office work? Salary report reveals new reality for hiring managers

Going back to the office could have a meaningful perk — more pay.

For jobs that can be done remotely, 78% of technology managers are willing to increase starting salaries for new hires to work in the office full or part-time, according to the 2025 Salary Guide from HR consulting firm Robert Half.

The firm said it’s seeing some new hires offered up to 20% more pay for onsite roles.

Higher salaries may be a big deal for employees who don’t want to be in an office and deal with the cost of a daily commute or other expenses associated with in-person work.

But will more pay be enough? According to the Salary Guide, along with workers wanting higher salaries, a competitive compensation package should also include key benefits such as health insurance, more paid time off and retirement savings plans.

And the top three perks workers want sound a lot like those associated with not rushing back to the office: flexible work schedules, remote work options and wellness perks.

Tech professionals’ “ideal scenario” is working in the office three days per week, according to the report.

After the pandemic fueled a rise in remote work, some companies are calling employees back to the office.

Amazon announced in September that it will require its corporate and tech workers to start working from the office in the same way that they did prior to the pandemic. The company’s policy right now is at least three days per week in office.

While Amazon and CEO Andy Jassy have stressed the increased collaboration, innovation and culture building that comes from in-person work, the company hasn’t mentioned offering more pay to make it more appealing to employees who have expressed reservations.