Mobility data reports

The Local Plus Report offers in-depth analysis of how companies structure their benefits offerings for expatriate employees through a local plus compensation model. Each report highlights market practices related to both mandatory and optional benefits while also reflecting the most recent trends and data on industry-specific provisions.

An update of the Strategic Mobility Management Survey is underway for 2025. The report from the 2023 edition of this survey will be available for purchase until the 2025 report is released this spring.

Ongoing social and economic upheaval is encouraging organizations to reevaluate their global mobility strategies and policies. This year, key megatrends, such as rapid digital transformation and a growing emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues, are shaping the landscape for companies and HR teams worldwide. Insights from our latest Worldwide International Assignment Policies and Practices Survey (WIAPP), conducted in February and March 2023, reveal the prevailing trends in global mobility programs and the management of long-term assignments, providing you with actionable data to refine your approach and establish benchmarks.

In recent years, global organizations seeking to relocate talent have increasingly adopted more adaptable, purpose-driven and cost-effective alternatives to traditional long-term expatriate assignments. Our AIA Survey reveals the most current market trends in managing short-term international assignments, permanent transfers and one-way moves involving internationally hired employees. Additionally, the study examines how policies and practices have changed since the previous survey edition in 2021.

Mercer’s cost-of-living data offer a detailed analysis of daily living expenses for expatriate employees and their families in various assignment locations worldwide. These data cover costs for items such as housing, transportation, food, healthcare and education, enabling organizations to understand the financial implications of relocating talent. By evaluating these expenses, companies can make informed decisions about compensation packages and benefits, ensuring adequate support for their expatriate workforces. This information also helps organizations remain competitive in attracting and retaining top talent in a globalized market.

Mercer’s Quality of Living Reports contain all the key elements you need to calculate hardship allowances for transfers to more than 500 cities worldwide. “Hardship allowance” refers to premium compensation paid to assignees who experience — or should expect to experience — a significant deterioration in living conditions in their new host locations.

Mercer’s Mobilize Housing Solution enables organizations to provide equitable and cost-effective housing allowances using accurate data on international assignee housing in more than 450 locations worldwide. This resource allows companies to make informed housing decisions tailored to their needs. By accessing information on local housing markets, rental prices and living conditions, organizations can ensure that expatriate employees receive appropriate housing support aligned with their compensation packages. This approach enhances the experience for international assignees and their families while helping companies manage housing strategies and remain competitive in attracting global talent. 

Mercer’s Per Diem Allowance Calculator 2.0 is an innovative tool designed to help organizations fairly compensate employees for their daily expenses at assignment locations.

Tailored for business travelers and expatriates on short-term assignments (ranging from three to 12 months), this calculator offers a standardized daily living allowance that is equitable for all assignees in the same host location, irrespective of their salary or home countries. Using our per diem recommendations, you can effectively set budgets without having to manage individual expenses.