Remote workers want healthcare over flashy perks, survey finds

A new We Work Remotely survey of 767 remote-first professionals across 87 countries found that workers prioritize healthcare, development support and retirement benefits over trendy perks. The results suggest employers may win remote talent more easily by leading with practical benefits instead of novelty.

Why it matters: - Remote hiring is crowded, and benefit packages can shape which employers stand out to candidates across borders. - The survey suggests workers are prioritizing stability and everyday support over perks that may look attractive in a job ad but do little to affect long-term satisfaction. - Employers that emphasize healthcare, learning support and retirement benefits may have an edge in attracting and keeping remote talent.

What happened: - We Work Remotely surveyed 767 remote-first professionals across 87 countries in early 2026. - Flexibility remained the top remote-work benefit overall, named by 62% of respondents. - Once flexibility was set aside, healthcare coverage ranked first among employer benefits, chosen by 41% of respondents. - Learning and development stipends followed at 30%. - Retirement plans came in at 23%. - Home office budgets and parental leave were tied at 20%. - Unlimited vacation drew interest from 12% of respondents. - A coworking stipend ranked last at 5%.

The details: - We Work Remotely is a remote job board and global remote-work community with more than 6 million monthly visitors. - The survey covered remote professionals from a wide range of industries and experience levels. - The findings point to a preference for practical benefits that support health, skills development and long-term security. - The data also suggests many remote workers see those basics as part of what makes a role sustainable.

Between the lines: - The results challenge a common hiring playbook that leans on novelty perks to attract remote applicants. - For employers, the survey implies that a straightforward benefits package may be more persuasive than a long list of extras. - For candidates, the findings offer a simple filter: benefits tied to health and growth may signal whether a company is serious about remote workers’ day-to-day needs. - We Work Remotely said the strongest way to attract and keep remote talent is to get the fundamentals right.

What's next: - As remote work matures, employers may keep recalibrating benefits packages to match what candidates say they value most. - Remote job seekers are likely to look more closely at healthcare, development budgets and retirement support before choosing where to apply. - Companies competing for global talent may face more pressure to lead with concrete benefits instead of flashy perks.

The bottom line: - Remote workers want the basics done well, and healthcare coverage tops the list once flexibility is already on the table.