Student Accommodation Market Size To Reach $19.05 Billion By 2033

Student Accommodation Market Growth & Trends

The global student accommodation market size is expected to reach USD 19.05 billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 5.7% from 2026 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is experiencing robust growth globally, driven by several converging factors that are reshaping the landscape of higher education and real estate. One of the primary drivers of this growth is the increasing enrollment of students in higher education institutions, particularly from international markets. As more students pursue advanced degrees and cross-border education, the demand for quality, purpose-built student housing (PBSH) has surged. These accommodations cater to the specific needs of students, offering a blend of convenience, security, and community-oriented living spaces that traditional housing options often fail to provide.

In addition to the growing student population, the real estate market's expansion is playing a critical role in the development of new student accommodations. Real estate developers and investment firms are increasingly recognizing the student housing sector as a resilient and lucrative asset class. With the volatility in traditional commercial real estate segments such as office spaces and retail, investors are turning to student housing for stable returns. The alignment of real estate growth with the educational sector's needs has led to significant investments in developing high-quality student accommodations, often in partnership with universities and colleges, ensuring that these developments meet the rising demand. For instance, in March 2024, Greystar Real Estate Partners, LLC (Greystar) entered into an agreement with Share Student Living ("Share") and CIX Capital, an asset management firm specializing in the real estate sector. This partnership marks Greystar's entry into the Brazilian market for purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). Under the agreement, the properties will be operated and managed under the brand 'Share by Greystar,' representing a significant milestone in expanding their international portfolio. 

Technological advancements and shifting student preferences are also fueling the growth of the student accommodation market. Today’s students expect more than just a place to sleep; they demand accommodations equipped with modern amenities, including high-speed internet, smart home technology, and sustainable building practices. The market has responded with innovative housing solutions that cater to these expectations, integrating technology to enhance the student living experience. This trend towards tech-enabled, sustainable accommodations is attracting both students and investors, further driving market growth.

Government policies and educational initiatives are supporting the expansion of the student housing market. Many countries are actively promoting higher education as a key economic driver, offering incentives for international students and investing in educational infrastructure. These initiatives are increasing the flow of students into regions with well-developed education sectors, subsequently boosting the demand for student housing. Additionally, public-private partnerships in real estate development are facilitating the construction of new student accommodations, ensuring that the supply keeps pace with the growing demand. As a result, the student accommodation market is poised for sustained growth, with real estate market dynamics and other factors continuing to play a pivotal role in its expansion.

In the winter semester of 2022/23, Germany welcomed a record number of international students, totaling 367,578, representing a 5% increase compared to the previous academic year, according to the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). This achievement marks the fifth consecutive year of growth in international student enrollment in the country. Such sustained growth in the European market is expected to significantly elevate the demand for student accommodation. As more international students choose Germany for their studies, the necessity for adequate and quality housing options becomes increasingly critical. This influx not only underscores Germany’s attractiveness as a study destination but also highlights the pressing need for universities and private developers to expand their accommodation offerings.

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Student Accommodation Market Report Highlights

• Countries such as the U.S., the UK, Australia, and Canada remain top destinations for international students, leading to increased pressure on existing accommodation infrastructure

• Globally, student mobility is also expanding rapidly. Recent education mobility estimates show that approximately 6.9 million students studied outside their home countries in 2024, the highest level ever recorded, with projections suggesting the number could exceed 10 million by 2030

• In addition, in 2025, UNESCO reported that worldwide higher education participation reached 264 million students, reflecting substantial expansion in tertiary education systems and reinforcing long-term demand for student housing across major study destinations such as the U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, France, and Germany.

• Affordability and the cost of living remain the primary factors influencing student accommodation decisions, as students carefully balance tuition costs with daily living expenses

• Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) held the largest revenue share of the student accommodation industry in 2025, accounting for a share of 43.44%.

• Off-campus accommodation held the largest revenue share of the student accommodation industry in 2025, accounting for a share of 72.14%.

• Double-sharing occupancy held the largest revenue share in the student accommodation industry in 2025, accounting for a share of 45.25%.

• The demand among undergraduate students held the largest revenue share of the student accommodation industry in 2025, accounting for a share of 61.51%.

• The demand for accommodations among post-graduate students is anticipated to witness a CAGR of 6.6% from 2026 to 2033. The increasing enrolment in higher education, particularly among international students pursuing advanced degrees, has driven demand for quality housing solutions that offer convenience, safety, and a conducive environment for academic pursuits.

• The student accommodation industry in North America held the largest global revenue share in 2025, accounting for a share of 41.89%. Universities across the U.S. and Canada continue to attract a growing number of domestic and international students due to high-quality education, diverse academic programs, and strong career opportunities.

Student Accommodation Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global student accommodation market report based on accommodation, education grade, occupancy, location, and region:

Student Accommodation Accommodation Outlook (Volume, Number of Beds; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)

• Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

• University-Managed Accommodation

• Private Rental Accommodation

• Others (Homestays, etc.)

Student Accommodation Education Grade Outlook (Volume, Number of Beds; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)

• Undergraduate Students

• Postgraduate Students

• Professional and Continuing Education Students

Student Accommodation Location Outlook (Volume, Number of Beds; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)

• Off-campus

• On-campus

Student Accommodation Occupancy Outlook (Volume, Number of Beds; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)

• Single

• Double

• Triple/ Multi

Student Accommodation Regional Outlook (Volume, Number of Beds; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)

• North America

  • U.S.

  • Canada

  • Mexico

• Europe

  • Germany

  • UK

  • France

  • Italy

  • Spain

• Asia Pacific

  • China

  • India

  • Japan

  • Australia

• Central & South America

  • Brazil

• Middle East and Africa

  • UAE

  • South Africa

List of Key Players in Student Accommodation Market

• American Campus Communities (ACC)

• Global Student Accommodation Group

• Campus Living Villages

• The Student Hotel (TSH)

• The Unite Group

• Harrison Street

• Greystar Real Estate Partners

• APG Asset Management

• Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P.

• Mapletree Investments Pte Ltd