Wordwide: Resident satisfaction in student accommodations is declining, according to software provider StarRez’s “2025 State of the Student Housing Industry Report”.
The report, which collected data from 400 institutions globally, found that students’ expectations are rising.
Although 73.3 per cent of institutions still report high resident satisfaction, this figure has slipped nearly 7 percentage points since 2024.
One in three institutions lack formal feedback systems.
While many institutions are increasingly using automation and off-campus platforms to enhance operational efficiency, staffing shortages remain one of the biggest challenges, with over half of accommodations operating with fewer than 10 professional housing staff.
Nearly 70 per cent of institutions have automated processes such as reporting and analytics, email communication, room assignments, billing, and front desk operations.
The report also found growing demand for off-campus housing, particularly among international students, reflecting a shift toward greater privacy and independence.
Nearly 40 per cent of institutions are seeing increased demand for housing from international students, with more institutions incorporating off-campus housing platforms to help students navigate the transition.
Revenue is also declining. In 2025, summer earnings are down, with 64 per cent of institutions reporting that they earn less than 10 per cent of total housing revenue from summer, conference, or short-term stays.
Only 7 per cent now report earning more than 25 per cent of revenue from non-academic housing.
Travis Knipe, CEO of StarRez, said: “The needs of residential communities are very dynamic. Higher ed housing leaders who leverage this kind of high-quality information can drive strategies and adopt technology to help navigate change, build stronger relationships, and meet the needs of both students and staff, ultimately driving better outcomes for all.”
Highlights:
– Resident satisfaction in student accommodations is declining despite still high overall levels
– 1 in 3 institutions lack formal resident feedback systems.
– Staffing shortages persist, with over half operating with fewer than 10 professional housing staff.
– Off-campus housing demand is growing, especially among international students
– Summer housing revenue is down: 64 per cent earn less than 10 per cent from summer and short-term stays.
