Interest from institutional investors in Dutch student housing has increased significantly in a short period of time. In 2025, nearly €1 billion was invested in this type of housing, of which more than €400 million came from pension funds and insurers.
This represents a sharp rise compared to previous years: between 2016 and 2024, Dutch institutional investors invested an average of just €30 million per year. These findings are based on research by real estate investment manager Achmea Real Estate into the Dutch student housing market.
The growing interest is driven by a combination of factors. Students have gained greater financial capacity due to the reintroduction of the basic student grant in the Netherlands and expanded housing allowances. This makes it more affordable for students to live independently and reduces risk for investors. At the same time, the investment climate has become more predictable due to increased clarity around rent regulation and the abolition of the landlord levy.
At the same time, pressure on the student housing market remains high. According to the National Student Housing Monitor (LMS), the current shortage stands at approximately 21,500 student homes, while on the supply side the number of privately owned student rooms is declining due to the increasing sale of rental properties. Demand for student housing is expected to continue to rise in the coming years. Currently, 54% of students in the Netherlands live independently. By 2032, this is expected to rise to between 58% and 66%.
Growing importance
In this tight market, institutional investors are playing an increasingly important role. “Institutional investors have a long-term investment horizon and can contribute to a more stable supply of student housing by investing in both existing stock and sustainable new developments,” says Kes Brattinga, researcher at Achmea Real Estate. “They also offer attractive risk-return prospects, making them a valuable addition to institutional real estate portfolios.” Achmea Real Estate itself also invests in and manages student housing, with several complexes in cities including Amsterdam, Delft, Leiden and Utrecht, with a total of approximately 1,700 homes.
A significant share of investments in student housing goes toward existing portfolios. “New construction is lagging behind. To structurally address the shortage of student housing, it is important that more room is created for new development,” Brattinga adds. “This will give institutional investors more opportunities to contribute to reducing the housing shortage.”
