For several years, the student housing market in Brussels has experienced growing demand, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. The Belgian capital, with its numerous universities and higher education institutions, attracts a large number of national and international students each year, particularly due to its strategic position in Europe. This article offers a detailed analysis of the student housing rental market situation in the capital, focusing on availability, prices, and the most sought-after neighborhoods. We will also explore the reasons behind this strong growth in the increasing demand for student housing in Brussels.
Ever-Increasing Demand
Demand for student housing in Brussels, while remaining accessible for some, has significantly increased in recent years. This is partly explained by the increase in the number of students in the city looking for a studio or an apartment close to their place of study. Universities such as the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and higher education institutions are attracting more and more students, both Belgian and international. Furthermore, with the growing number of international students, who often cannot live in their family home, the search for student accommodation becomes a real challenge.
The number of students seeking accommodation is higher than the available supply, which drives up student housing prices. According to real estate experts, this situation is expected to persist, particularly due to the difficulty in finding space to build new student housing or residences. Availability is thus increasingly limited, and student housing units are often rented very quickly, especially those located near university campuses.
Rising Prices
In 2024, the average price of a student room in Brussels ranges between 400 and 700 euros per month, depending on the size, comfort, and location of the accommodation. However, some central neighborhoods, such as Ixelles or Etterbeek, where the main university campuses are located, see rents climb to over 800 euros per month. These neighborhoods remain highly sought after despite the high cost, due to their proximity to study locations and the services available to students.
Conversely, slightly more distant areas, such as Anderlecht or Schaerbeek, offer more affordable options, even if the distance from campuses can be an obstacle for some students. Nevertheless, the shortage of student housing affects the entire city, and student accommodations are rented out very quickly, especially as the academic year approaches.
Popular Neighborhoods for Student Housing
Certain areas of Brussels are particularly popular among students due to their proximity to universities, but also for the quality of life they offer. Here are some of the most sought-after neighborhoods:
- Ixelles: The quintessential student neighborhood, especially for those attending the Université libre de Bruxelles. The proximity to campuses and amenities makes it a very attractive area, although rents there are among the highest.
- Etterbeek: This neighborhood is also popular due to its proximity to universities and its commercial vibrancy.
- Schaerbeek: Offering more affordable accommodation, Schaerbeek is increasingly popular among students looking for a less expensive option, while being well-served by public transport.
Why is Demand Surging?
The growing demand for student housing in Brussels is explained by several factors. Firstly, the increase in the number of students in Brussels is directly linked to the attractiveness of the city’s universities and higher education institutions, which welcome students from all over Belgium and abroad each year. This massive influx fuels the increasing demand for student accommodation, adding pressure to an already saturated market.
Secondly, the scarcity of available land for building new student residences or student housing makes the situation even more strained. Construction constraints and slow administrative processes hinder the development of new housing, creating a structural shortage. This drives up prices and makes the search for student accommodation even more challenging for young people.
Challenges for Students
Faced with this situation, students often have to turn to alternative solutions, such as flat-sharing or university residences. However, even these options can be limited, and demand for them is also high. Private residences offer an interesting alternative, but they are often more expensive.
Furthermore, rental agreement rules for students in Brussels are sometimes complex, with specific conditions that may include notice clauses, high rental guarantees, or fixed-term contracts. These conditions can make the search even more challenging, especially for students who have never had to manage a lease before.
Challenges for Landlords
For landlords who rent out student accommodation, management is not always straightforward. They must not only comply with the strict rules of the primary residence lease, but also deal with frequent tenant turnovers, particularly at the end of each academic year. Each lease termination involves new contracts, room refurbishment, and the search for new tenants.
Seasonal turnovers can make management complex, especially in a city where demand remains strong throughout the year. To simplify the task, landlords can turn to AHRE, a service specializing in supporting owners of student accommodation. AHRE offers solutions to maximize profitability while ensuring smooth management of student housing, with advice on legal obligations and rental guarantees, as well as on managing turnovers and increasing demand.
Conclusion
In conclusion, according to real estate experts, the student housing market in Brussels remains extremely dynamic, but it also faces significant challenges. Demand continues to grow, fueled by the influx of Belgian and international students, while supply remains limited, driving up prices. For young people seeking student accommodation in Brussels, it is essential to anticipate and inquire well in advance to find the best option based on their budget and needs. As for landlords, they face increasing logistical and administrative challenges, and AHRE positions itself as a partner of choice to assist them in managing their student real estate.
