Where Next for
Student Housing?

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This report, a collaboration between QX Global Group and JLL, examines the evolving landscape of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) in the UK, highlighting critical challenges and opportunities for the sector

Key Findings

  • DEMAND-SUPPLY GAP: Current PBSA stock meets only 53% of core demand, a figure projected to drop further by 2030.
  • DOMESTIC GROWTH OPPORTUNITY: Participation among students from lower-income households has surged, underscoring the need for affordable housing solutions.
  • INTERNATIONAL IMPACT: Despite a 121% increase in international students from non-EU countries since 2014/15, visa restrictions and economic conditions are tempering future growth.
  • STUDENT PREFERENCES: En-suite and single-occupancy rooms remain top priorities, although affordability remains a barrier.
  • DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES: Rising construction costs and regulatory pressures hinder new builds, particularly in lower-value markets.

What’s inside?

  • Executive Summary A high-level overview of the report’s insights and implications for the PBSA sector.
  • Student Numbers Detailed analysis of domestic and international student population trends.
  • PBSA Supply and Challenges Insights into supply shortfalls, development viability issues, and future risks.
  • Conclusions Actionable recommendations for stakeholders to address the PBSA shortfall.

About the Report

Published in October 2024, “Where Next for Student Housing?” explores the evolving dynamics of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) in the UK, amidst increasing demand and shifting market conditions.

This report delves into critical challenges, including the growing demand-supply gap, rising construction costs, and regulatory pressures that hinder development. Drawing on comprehensive research by QX Global Group and JLL, it provides data-driven insights into student housing trends, policy impacts, and the preferences shaping the sector.

The analysis aims to equip stakeholders with actionable strategies to address the housing shortfall, meet diverse student needs, and ensure the long-term viability of PBSA developments in the UK.

Looking for a Finance & Accounting Partner for Your PBSA?

With 15+ years of experience in student housing finance, QX Global Group is the trusted F&A partner to 9 of the UK’s top 20 PBSA providers—powering 30% of the UK’s privately-owned PBSA market.

Our all-in-one F&A solutions cover development, property, corporate, fund, and investment accounting—helping PBSA operators:

  • Cut F&A costs by upto 50%
  • Speed up reporting by 40–50%
  • Gain 25–40% efficiency in AP through automation

Explore how QX is transforming finance for UK student accommodation

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