At Zillow, we believe that empowering our team to think creatively and work efficiently leads to exceptional results. This philosophy underpins our innovative Cloud HQ model, which has significantly enhanced our performance metrics. As our Chief People Officer, Dan Spaulding, noted to Fortune, we have outpaced the residential real estate sector, accelerated product development, decreased voluntary attrition, and increased employee satisfaction. Since adopting this flexible work approach, we have not observed any decline in productivity across the board.
We are proud to be recognized as one of the 2025 100 Best Companies to Work For® by Fortune and Great Place to Work®. This accolade is not just a badge of honor; it reflects our employees’ feedback and demonstrates our commitment to fostering a workplace where they feel valued and inspired. Our goal is to empower more individuals on their journey to homeownership.
A Workplace Designed for Innovation
The challenges of 2020 presented us with a choice: return to the status quo or reimagine work entirely. What began as a temporary shift to remote operations evolved into a strategic opportunity that transformed our organizational culture. We have since developed the Cloud HQ model, tailored to accommodate diverse working styles and locations, unlocking unprecedented levels of collaboration and innovation.
By attentively listening to our employees, we harnessed the strengths of asynchronous workflows and cutting-edge communication technologies. This approach has allowed us to foster a culture where flexibility and in-person interactions are balanced. Teams are encouraged to work autonomously, focusing on high-impact projects, while organized gatherings, such as zRetreats, promote collaborative efforts when they matter most. Our open office spaces remain available for those who prefer more frequent in-person interactions, facilitating swift teamwork and focused outcomes.
Moreover, eliminating geographical constraints has not only transformed how we work but has also enriched our talent pool, attracting diverse perspectives and top-tier talent from across the nation. As Cloud HQ becomes a cornerstone of our strategy for growth and innovation, we see our teams thriving as they deliver exceptional solutions and advance our business objectives faster than ever.
Employee Experience Fuels Business Success
This prestigious recognition stems directly from employee feedback about their experience at Zillow, and the results are compelling. According to the Great Place to Work survey, our employees reported:
- 97% felt welcomed upon joining the company.
- 96% appreciate the supportive work environment facilitated by Cloud HQ.
- 95% express pride in being part of Zillow.
- 94% feel that management prioritizes integrity in business practices.
- 94% have the flexibility to take time off when needed.
Our employees are flourishing, which translates to success for our business. The Cloud HQ model has empowered us to attract exceptional talent nationwide, foster inclusive and high-performing teams, and cultivate an atmosphere where impact, rather than location, defines success.
Embracing the Future of Work
While we don’t have all the answers, we are continuously experimenting, learning, and improving our practices. One undeniable truth is that the Cloud HQ model is effective, and at Zillow, we are not just discussing the future of work; we are living it.
As we innovate our working processes, we simultaneously transform the real estate landscape for renters, buyers, and sellers. This acknowledgment from Fortune and Great Place to Work reinforces our conviction that we are moving in the right direction.
Are you interested in joining Zillow? Visit our careers page to explore opportunities and contribute to our mission of helping more individuals find their homes.
Zillow’s Innovative Workplace: The Future of Work at Cloud HQ
At Zillow, we emphasize the importance of enabling individuals to excel in their work environments. Our Cloud HQ model embodies this philosophy, allowing teams to think creatively and work with agility. The positive results speak for themselves, as recent reports indicate that we are surpassing industry benchmarks in terms of product delivery speed, employee engagement, and retention rates.
Being recognized as one of the top 100 companies to work for in 2025 by reputable organizations highlights not just our accolades, but also our commitment to fostering a supportive culture. This achievement signifies that our employees feel appreciated and empowered to make a meaningful impact, which is vital to our mission of helping more people find their homes.
The Evolution of Work at Zillow
In response to the challenges of 2020, we chose to innovate rather than revert to traditional ways of working. The transition to remote work prompted us to reevaluate the concept of work itself, fueling new avenues for collaboration, creativity, and productivity.
This led to the creation of the Cloud HQ model, designed to accommodate diverse working styles and preferences. By actively incorporating feedback from our team members, we implemented asynchronous workflows and leveraged technology that simplifies communication and collaboration, regardless of time zones. This intentional flexibility not only boosts individual performance but also strengthens team dynamics.
Fostering a Collaborative and Open Environment
One of the most significant benefits of our approach is the removal of geographical constraints in hiring, allowing us to welcome a wider range of talent and diverse perspectives into our workforce. As a cornerstone of our growth strategy, the Cloud HQ model empowers teams to choose where and how they work, resulting in faster and more effective solutions that accelerate our business momentum.
Our commitment to employee-centered values has been validated by recent surveys, revealing that a remarkable percentage of our staff feels welcomed, supported, and proud to be a part of Zillow. This employee feedback underscores the correlation between a positive workplace culture and overall business success.
The Impact of Employee Experience on Performance
Our employees’ voices are at the heart of our achievement. Key findings from the Great Place to Work survey highlight that: 97% of our team felt welcomed upon joining; 96% appreciate the flexible environment; and most notably, 95% express pride in their affiliation with Zillow. These metrics substantiate that fostering a thriving workforce directly translates into improved business outcomes.
The Future of Work: Embodying Innovation and Flexibility
While we acknowledge the need for continuous improvement, we firmly believe that our Cloud HQ model is effective and forward-thinking. At Zillow, we’re not just discussing the future of work; we are actively living it. Our innovative methods reflect our commitment to reshaping both the workplace and the real estate market.
Are you inspired to join a forward-thinking team that prioritizes creativity and impact? Visit our careers page and discover how you can contribute to our mission of making homeownership a reality for more individuals.