Where workers are most, least likely to take advantage of vacation time

In some cities, more workers are able to completely check out during their vacation, while in other cities, more just can’t seem to cut the tether to their workplace – and in a few areas, some just won’t leave at all, according to an Accountemps survey on the vacation habits of more than 2,800 workers in 28 U.S. markets.

Who are the best at disconnecting from work while out of office? Workers in Cleveland, Minneapolis, Denver, Philadelphia and Salt Lake City, according to the survey.

Related: Vacationing employees are better performers

Who are most likely to connect with the office at least several times a week? Those working in New York, Charlotte, Los Angeles, Miami and Seattle. And who are most likely to just never break away from the office? Workers in Nashville, Dallas and Los Angeles.

For all of the respondents, 44 percent typically don’t check in at all with the office, but the majority do check in, even if it’s just one email or call. Those 34 and younger are more likely to maintain some contact with work: 70 percent admit to it, compared to just 39 percent of baby boomers.

The trend to connect to the office may be increasing, as the number of workers who never check in while on vacation has been falling in Accountemps’ annual survey, from 59 percent in 2016, to 47 percent in 2017, falling again to 44 percent this year.

Checking in just a little may actually be a good thing for some people’s health, says Michael Steinitz, executive director for Accountemps.

“Employees need time away from work to rest, relax and recharge — yet for an increasing number of people, totally disconnecting from the office can have the reverse effect and add stress,” Steinitz says.

“Some workers enjoy greater peace of mind when they allow themselves to check in a few times — but not much more than that — while on vacation,” he adds. “Doing so confirms that all is well, which allows them to stop worrying and focus on relaxing instead.”