- Affordability and convenience are the top priorities for international students, with growing interest in furnished, well-located, and budget-conscious housing options.
- Kitchen access, cultural accommodations, and privacy rank high among preferred amenities, shifting the focus away from luxury in favor of practicality.
- Indian students now lead international enrollment in the US, contributing to a broader diversification of international student origins and preferences.
- Student housing providers are encouraged to adopt flexible lease terms, community-building amenities, and culturally sensitive design to remain competitive.
Demand Is Rising Despite Policy Challenges
According to Multifamily Dive, despite a challenging immigration environment under the Trump administration, the US remains a top destination for international students, with enrollment up 7% year-over-year. Over 1.1M international students enrolled in US colleges and universities in the 2023–2024 school year, according to a recent NMHC study conducted by international research firm BONARD.
A shifting geopolitical landscape has not stopped the influx—India surpassed China as the largest source of international students, with demand also surging from countries like Nigeria, Bangladesh, Ghana, and Pakistan.
Affordability First
International students, especially undergraduates, are prioritizing affordable housing options due to rising tuition, exchange rate volatility, and the high cost of visa processes. The report urges developers and operators to align rents with market conditions and offer budget-friendly, all-inclusive living options.
Location Matters More Than Luxury
Most international students rely on walking or public transportation, making proximity to campus a top priority. Convenience outweighs high-end finishes, with many students seeking furnished units to minimize upfront costs and logistical hurdles.
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Key Amenities That Matter
Based on student surveys, the report identifies the most valued amenities in student housing:
- Kitchen facilities (shared or private) to accommodate cultural and dietary needs
- Private bathrooms and furnished rooms for comfort and ease
- Free laundry access and in-house storage for off-season belongings
- Cultural and religious spaces, including meditation or prayer rooms
- Community lounges and wellness facilities to support social and mental well-being
- Flexible lease terms and move-in timelines that align with visa approvals.
Adapting for a New Wave of Renters
Student housing operators are encouraged to rethink design and operations to meet the evolving expectations of international renters. The report recommends:
- Offering 10- and 12-month leases for flexibility
- Incorporating social programming to foster community
- Enhancing building security and privacy
- Providing micro-mobility solutions and transit-friendly locations.
Why It Matters
As domestic enrollment declines, international students represent a key growth demographic for US institutions—and their housing needs will shape the next wave of development. Providers who prioritize cultural awareness, flexibility, and affordability will be better positioned to serve this critical market segment.
Looking Ahead
The NMHC’s findings reinforce the importance of a student-centric approach to housing. As global mobility trends continue to evolve, especially in response to political and economic shifts, responsive and inclusive housing design will be vital to attracting and retaining international talent.
