University of Missouri Leads Student Housing Preleasing in 2025

What's Happening?

The University of Missouri has achieved a 99.7% preleasing rate for its student housing, leading the rankings among Power 5 universities in 2025. This high preleasing rate is part of a broader trend observed across major universities, as reported by Yardi Matrix. The report highlights that preleasing at Yardi 200 schools reached 93.7% in August 2025, surpassing previous year's levels. Rent growth has slowed to 1.1% year-over-year, compared to 5-7% in past years. Other universities such as the University of Kentucky and Virginia Tech also show strong preleasing rates, indicating robust demand for student housing despite varying rent growth rates.

Why It's Important?

The high preleasing rates at universities like the University of Missouri reflect a strong demand for student housing, which is crucial for accommodating growing student populations. This trend is significant for real estate developers and investors focusing on student housing markets, as it suggests stable occupancy and potential for rental income. The slowing rent growth may indicate a stabilization in the market, providing a more predictable environment for stakeholders. Universities with high preleasing rates are likely to attract more students, enhancing their competitive edge in higher education.

What's Next?

As universities continue to experience high preleasing rates, developers may focus on expanding student housing projects to meet demand. The stabilization in rent growth could lead to more strategic pricing and investment decisions. Universities might also explore partnerships with developers to enhance housing facilities and attract more students. The ongoing construction projects at various universities suggest a continued expansion in student housing capacity, which could further influence market dynamics.