Student Housing: Growing shortage creates opportunities for institutional investors
January 19, 2026
Demand for student housing continues to rise, despite a slight decline in the total number of students. This is one of the key findings of Bouwinvest’s Dutch Living Outlook 2026–2028. As private landlords withdraw from the market due to regulatory and fiscal pressure, a widening shortage of student rooms is emerging, particularly in the major university cities.
The outlook shows that professional PBSA concepts can play an increasingly important role in meeting this demand.
Key insights from the Dutch Living Outlook 2026–2028
-The projected shortage of student units is expected to exceed 42,000 by 2032
-International students continue to drive demand
-Private PBSA is still underdeveloped but growing rapidly
-PBSA provides an inflation hedge and flexibility through shorter rental cycles
What does this mean for investors?
The outlook highlights opportunities in private PBSA in cities with the greatest pressure, such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Professional operations are essential: PBSA is operationally intensive but, when well managed, offers stable occupancy and predictable income streams. This positions the segment as an attractive long-term risk-return opportunity.
Download the Dutch Living Outlook 2026–2028