In Germany's 40 leading university cities, there is currently an unmet demand for over 129,000 student housing units. This is the conclusion of a current market analysis by IHT Planungsgesellschaft, commissioned by members of the Bundesverband Micro-Living. The study demonstrates a persistent structural undersupply in the student housing segment in almost all university cities.
The highest unmet demand is concentrated in the metropolitan areas of Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Cologne, as specified by Jan-D. Müller-Seidler, Managing Director of IHT and Deputy Chairman of the Bundesverband Micro-Living. For Berlin alone, the analysis shows a total demand for approximately 32,000 apartments, of which, according to current calculations, more than 14,000 units are still lacking.
Scope of Analysis and Findings
In addition to the total demand for student housing per city, the study also considers the existing number of apartments. This methodology allows for the precise quantification of the specific, still unmet demand at each location, thereby revealing existing potential for developers and investors. Furthermore, IHT Planungsgesellschaft analyses the proportion of students in the total population, the local rent level, and purchasing power in the respective study regions. This comprehensive information serves as a basis for decision-making for companies in the industry.
The results of the analysis underscore that a permanent surplus of demand exists in practically all German university cities, often leading to a protracted housing search for students. The Bundesverband Micro-Living (BML) sees an urgent need for political action here.
Political Framework and Market Outlook
Müller-Seidler points out that the tenancy law amendment being pushed by the Minister of Justice is causing considerable uncertainty among investors. This could prospectively lead to even fewer new apartments being built, which would further exacerbate the already tense situation. The BML therefore calls for a rethinking in politics to avoid losing attractiveness in the competition for qualified students and international skilled workers.
The full results of the analysis are currently being finalised and will be made available to the association's member companies from autumn this year. Interested parties also have the option to purchase the study for a fee. Continuous updating of the figures is planned to transparently reflect market development and the potential of this asset class in the long term.
