area allowance; regional cost of living allowance
A supplementary payment added to an employee's salary to account for higher living costs in a particular work location.
When you are assigned to work in Tokyo, an area allowance is provided.
The regional cost of living allowance varies depending on the area.
住宅手当 is a housing allowance, while 勤務地手当 specifically compensates for regional cost-of-living differences.
地域手当 is a similar concept often used in public sector contexts, whereas 勤務地手当 is more common in private companies.
Compound of 勤務地 (work location) and 手当 (allowance).