Understanding what students prioritize in on-campus housing is essential for universities aiming to enhance student satisfaction. A clean, well-furnished living space is often at the top of their list, as it significantly contributes to their overall comfort and happiness.
A recent study conducted by a leading student housing management platform has shed light on the key factors that influence student preferences. The findings indicate that room conditions and a strong sense of community are paramount for those residing in campus housing. Additionally, the survey highlights the importance of social events and mental health support, which are seen as vital components of the student experience within residence halls.
Today’s students are increasingly valuing their privacy while also seeking opportunities to connect with peers in their living environment. This dual desire for solitude and community engagement suggests a shift in how students view their living arrangements, with many expressing interest in forming living-learning communities that foster both academic and social growth.
The survey, conducted between February 10 and April 14, 2025, gathered insights from 459 participants across 418 institutions worldwide, including a significant number from the Americas.
Understanding the Landscape: Approximately 16 percent of undergraduates live on campus, with higher percentages among students at four-year public institutions and independent colleges, according to data from a reputable educational association.
Research has consistently shown that students who reside in on-campus housing are more likely to persist and complete their degrees compared to their off-campus counterparts. This trend can be attributed to the accessibility of peer support, academic resources, and a secure living environment that on-campus housing provides.
In recent years, many colleges have faced challenges related to housing shortages, leading to overcrowded residence halls and less-than-ideal living conditions. The survey revealed that 64 percent of institutions reported occupancy rates of 90 percent or higher, with some reaching 99 percent. Despite this high demand, nearly 57 percent of students still lack access to on-campus housing.
Interestingly, there has been a noticeable increase in student interest in on-campus living post-pandemic, although this trend appears to be stabilizing. This shift indicates that while demand for on-campus housing remains high, it may begin to level off in the coming years.
Affordability continues to be a pressing issue in the campus housing market, with student housing costs rising at a faster rate than those of single-family homes. In 2023, student housing prices increased by 8.8 percent, compared to a 4.5 percent rise in multifamily rentals.
Insights from the Survey: When students express satisfaction with their housing, they often cite room conditions, community atmosphere, and available amenities as key factors. However, concerns about cost, facility maintenance, and food quality remain prevalent, with many students indicating that dining options need significant improvement.
Among the various housing types, apartment-style accommodations are the most sought after, followed by suite-style and traditional dormitories. The survey also revealed a growing preference for single rooms, with over half of the institutions reporting that students ranked this option as their top choice.
Not all housing placements are successful, as many colleges reported that over 10 percent of residents requested room changes during the academic year, with some institutions noting that between 25 and 50 percent of residents sought new accommodations.
Social events are the most popular activities among residents, with 90 percent of institutions reporting high attendance rates. Recreational activities and wellness programs also attract significant participation.
When it comes to health and well-being initiatives, nearly 60 percent of students expressed a desire for mental health support programs, while over half sought social events and community-building activities. Other requested services included counseling, healthy dining options, and academic support.
Living-learning communities are gaining traction, with a majority of colleges offering this type of housing. Academic-focused and honors programs are the most popular, while career and leadership-oriented groups see less interest.
As more students with disabilities enroll in higher education, the presence of emotional support animals on campus is also increasing. One-third of institutions reported that between 3 and 10 percent of residents have emotional support animals.
However, the percentage of institutions offering gender-inclusive housing has slightly decreased, indicating a need for continued attention to this area.
The rise in international student enrollment is further driving demand for on-campus housing, with many institutions reporting an increase in housing needs among this demographic.
Key Recommendations: Based on the findings, housing providers are encouraged to:
- Address students’ needs for privacy, mental health support, and a sense of belonging, which are crucial for their campus experience.
- Adapt housing options to meet the growing demand for apartment-style and single-room accommodations.
- Enhance living-learning communities to provide impactful experiences that boost resident satisfaction and retention.
How does your institution foster a sense of belonging and well-being in its residence halls?