February 4, 2026 — StarRez, a global provider of on-and-off-campus student housing software, has released a new report revealing what is changing in today’s college housing landscape, and providing an essential guide to the trends, data and strategies shaping the future of the resident experience. The 2025 State of the Student Housing Industry Report revealed a critical paradox: while enrollment rebounded, resident satisfaction dropped nearly 7% from 2024.
This disconnect signals that operational models of the past aren’t withstanding the expectations of the modern student experience, asserts the report.
2025 State of the Student Housing Industry Report
The student housing landscape is shifting fast. Rising expectations from students, stretched staff capacity, and expanding off-campus strategies are reshaping how institutions deliver housing. The 2025 State of the Student Housing Industry Report uncovers what’s changing, why it matters, and how the most forward-thinking college and university teams are adapting.
Discover how demand for privacy, mental health support and inclusive community is changing what students expect from housing and what institutions are doing to meet those needs.
Learn how automation, right-sizing and workflow improvements are helping housing teams reduce burnout and boost retention in the face of mounting pressure.
Explore the role of paperless systems, digital roommate matching, and channel management in streamlining operations, enhancing satisfaction, and preparing for growth.
See how leaders are expanding their housing strategies with off-campus partnerships, PBSA integrations, and international student support to serve students wherever they live.
Looking ahead, housing professionals must shift from “keeping the lights on” to tech-forward thinking. The student housing report suggests three key areas of investment:
- Automate to foster human connection and student retention: While 70% of institutions automate reporting, the next phase is freeing up staff from administrative burdens for mental health and conflict mediation support — a proven driver of retention.
- Having an “off-campus” strategy is no longer optional: With 78% of undergrads living off-campus, ignoring the off-campus market is a liability. Only 17% of institutions have a formal off-campus housing strategy — this is the biggest opportunity for growth in 2026.
- Close the feedback loop: One in three schools lack feedback mechanisms to measure resident satisfaction. This “blind spot” is solvable with the right tech stack.
2025 Higher Education Conference & Events Report
Campus facilities leaders may also find value in the 2025 Higher Education Conference & Events Report, which reveals how C&E teams are redefining campus-based events.
Drawing on insights from nearly 200 C&E leaders, this report uncovers how institutions are adapting to rapid growth, evolving client expectations, and responding to new operational challenges. It is touted as the most comprehensive look yet at how conferences and events are shaping the future of campus operations and revenue.
Access the 2025 State of the Student Housing Industry Report and the 2025 Higher Education Conference & Events Report from StarRez.
