The student accommodation sector in South Africa is undergoing a shift. As university enrolment rises, so does the demand for living spaces that are safe, well-connected, and designed specifically for student needs. Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) is no longer a niche market, it’s fast becoming a cornerstone of both real estate investment and student success. At CampusKey, we are proud to be at the forefront of this change, integrating purpose, design, and community into everything we do.

The PBSA Opportunity: Market Trends & Growth

1. According to Grand View Research, the South African student accommodation market generated R2.72 billionin revenue in 2024 (USD 155.4 million) and is expected to reach R3.2 billion (USD 182.2 million) by 2030, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 2.8%. PBSA was the largest segment by revenue in 2024. (Grand View Research)

1. An article from REI.co.za notes that South Africa has a shortage of over 500,000 student beds, pointing out that demand far outpaces supply in many university towns.( rei.co.za)

1. Gen Z students value more than just proximity to campus, they expect high-speed internet, strong security, wellness, shared social spaces, and flexible, inclusive pricing. Trends from RLB’s Innovative Student Housingreport reinforce how younger students are pushing developers to innovate.( RLB | Oceania) 

CampusKey’s Purpose-Driven Approach

CampusKey doesn’t just follow these market trends, we build them into our DNA:

1. Design & Comfort: Fully furnished private rooms, ensuite bathrooms, shared kitchens, study zones, and social hubs. By designing around the student lifestyle, we deliver stronger retention, lower vacancy, and long-term stability for investors
2. All-Inclusive & Transparent: Utilities, WiFi, security, amenities—no surprise fees. Students know what they pay for and what to expect. 
3. Community & Support: From study lounges to events to in-room support, CampusKey aims to foster connections and well-being—not just physical infrastructure. 

Why Investing with Purpose Pays Off

1. Stable Demand + Low VacancyStudent numbers continue to grow, but accommodation remains in short supply. PBSA properties near campuses with good amenities tend to have high occupancy and lower turnover.
2. Attractive Returns with Social ImpactInvestors gain not only financial returns but also the benefit of contributing to better student outcomes—through wellness, safety, and community.
3. Differentiation Through InnovationAmenities like biometric or keyless access, strong tech infrastructure, wellness spaces, and social areas are no longer “nice-to-haves”—they’re essential. CampusKey integrates them to stay ahead.
4. Aligned with Policy & Public GoodPBSA and public–private partnerships are increasingly supported by government policy. This alignment reduces regulatory risk and increases access to funding or incentives.( World Bank)

What the Future Holds

1. Continued growth in major university towns — especially where students move from rural or distant areas for study.
2. Increasing investment in “smart” buildings: energy-efficient design, strong internet, safety features, and multifunctional common spaces.
3. More inclusive pricing models and flexible leases to meet varied student financial capacities.

CampusKey’s roadmap already includes several developments built specifically for Gen Z in mind—units sized between ~21-30sqm, social hubs, fitness zones, tech infrastructure, and well-located properties in cities students prefer. 

The future of student accommodation is purpose-built. PBSA is proving itself as a resilient, high-impact asset class in South Africa—combining social need with stable returns. At CampusKey, we’re building more than residences; we’re building homes, communities, and futures worth investing in.