Rome is one of Europe’s largest educational hubs, attracting students from all over the world. The city is home to prestigious universities such as Sapienza Università di Roma, LUISS, Roma Tre, Università Cattolica, and Tor Vergata. As a result, the demand for student housing in the Italian capital remains consistently high.
Investing in student housing can be profitable, but it requires a clear understanding of market trends. In this article, we will analyze rental and purchase prices for student apartments, demand dynamics, and market prospects.1. Rome’s Student Housing Market
1.1. High Demand Among Students
Rome hosts over 200,000 students annually, with approximately 40,000–50,000 being international students. Most incoming students prefer to rent apartments or rooms in private residences, as university dormitories cannot accommodate everyone.
🔹 Factors influencing demand:
- Limited availability of university dorms
- High cost of living in the city center
- Growth of international exchange programs (Erasmus, dual degree programs)
- Increasing number of foreign students
1.2. Most Popular Areas for Students
Top Student-Friendly Neighborhoods in Rome:
| Neighborhood | Description | Average Rent (1-bedroom apartment) |
|---|---|---|
| San Lorenzo | Close to Sapienza University, vibrant student atmosphere, bars & cafés | €850 – €1,200 per month |
| Trastevere | Historic district, popular among international students | €1,000 – €1,500 per month |
| Ostiense | Near Roma Tre University, modern apartments | €850 – €1,200 per month |
| Pigneto | Affordable area, popular among students & creatives | €700 – €1,000 per month |
| Bologna-Tiburtina | Excellent transport links, convenient for students | €900 – €1,300 per month |
📌 Conclusion: Students tend to choose accommodation near universities and transport hubs, as well as areas with good infrastructure.
2. Student Apartment Rental Prices in Rome
The cost of student rentals in Rome depends on location, apartment condition, and included utilities.
🔹 Average rental prices by housing type:
| Type of Accommodation | Average Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Room in shared apartment | €400 – €700 |
| 1-bedroom apartment | €800 – €1,300 |
| 2-bedroom apartment | €1,200 – €1,800 |
| University dormitory | €300 – €600 |
Factors affecting rental prices:
✅ Location – city center is more expensive than outer districts
✅ Proximity to universities – the closer, the higher the rent
✅ Condition of the apartment – modern, renovated apartments cost more
✅ Utilities – some apartments include electricity, water, and internet
📌 Example: In San Lorenzo (near Sapienza University), a 1-bedroom apartment costs €900–€1,200, while a room in a shared apartment costs €450–€650.
3. Student Apartment Purchase Prices
Investing in real estate for student rentals is a popular way to generate passive income.
🔹 Average property prices in student-friendly areas:
| Neighborhood | Price per m² | 40m² Apartment | 60m² Apartment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Lorenzo | €4,500 – €5,500 | €180,000 – €220,000 | €270,000 – €330,000 |
| Trastevere | €6,500 – €8,000 | €260,000 – €320,000 | €390,000 – €480,000 |
| Ostiense | €4,000 – €5,200 | €160,000 – €210,000 | €240,000 – €310,000 |
| Pigneto | €3,500 – €4,500 | €140,000 – €180,000 | €210,000 – €270,000 |
| Bologna-Tiburtina | €4,800 – €6,000 | €190,000 – €240,000 | €280,000 – €360,000 |
📌 Conclusion: Purchasing a student apartment in Rome typically costs between €140,000 and €320,000, depending on the area and size.
Rental Yield
- Average rental yield for student apartments: 4.5–6.5% per year
- In high-demand student areas, yields can reach 7%
📌 Example: Buying a 40m² apartment in San Lorenzo for €200,000 and renting it out for €900 per month would generate a 5.4% annual yield.
4. Student Housing Demand Trends in Rome
4.1. Rising Demand for Modern Apartments
- Students prefer new or recently renovated, furnished apartments
- Co-living spaces are becoming increasingly popular
4.2. Increase in International Students
- The number of international students in Rome has grown by 15% in the last five years
- Higher demand for city-center apartments and housing near universities
4.3. Rising Rental Prices
- Over the past three years, rental prices have increased by 10–15%
- High demand continues to support steady rental price growth
5. Conclusion
📌 Key Takeaways:
✅ High Demand: Students actively rent apartments, especially in areas near universities
✅ Rising Prices: Both rental and purchase prices are increasing
✅ Investment Potential: Average rental yield of 4.5–6.5% per year
✅ Growth Prospects: Increasing student numbers and educational program expansion
Is investing in student apartments in Rome worth it?
💡 Yes, if:
✔ You are looking for stable, long-term investments
✔ You are willing to invest in high-demand student areas
✔ You aim for a rental yield of 5–6% per year
Rome’s student housing market continues to expand, offering great investment opportunities for landlords and property buyers. 🚀
