What does ‘affordable’ mean in student accommodation?


This report combines analysis of the breadth and depth of StudentCrowd’s UK PBSA data, along with unique review data and direct student interviews to address the question: what really is affordability? And what does it mean for student accommodation in 2024 and beyond?

StudentCrowd’s data covers 100% of UK PBSA (both privately and university-operated) and is maintained with weekly updates of rental prices, incentives and availability across all tenancy and room types. 

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StudentCrowd Affordability Report displayed on a laptop screen
Report Executive Summary

  • Affordability isn’t just about price – it’s about matching expectations to the most appropriate options.
  • Operational data alone cannot provide all of the answers; the power is in layering on student perception.

  • Excelling in this market requires flexibility and agility. Decisions must be driven by both high-quality data in order to respond to local market fluctuations, and an understanding of the student mindset through qualitative information like reviews.