Top University Locations for Rooming Houses: A 2025 Investor Guide
Why University-Centric Rooming Houses Matter for Investors
The demand for affordable, flexible accommodation near major educational hubs continues to surge, and rooming house investments are emerging as one of the most reliable, cashflow-positive real estate strategies. As we look towards 2025, universities are not just centres of learning—they are vibrant, high-demand housing ecosystems. For investors, understanding the connection between universities and rooming house accommodation is key to securing strong, stable returns.
The Rooming House Advantage: A Quick Overview
Rooming houses provide residents with private rooms and shared facilities under a regulated and licensed framework. This model is particularly well suited to students and young professionals seeking affordability and proximity to education and transport. For investors, rooming houses typically deliver higher yields than traditional residential investments by leasing rooms individually, helping reduce vacancy risk in university precincts.
For a detailed explanation of how rooming houses operate and the legal framework in Victoria, refer to the
Consumer Affairs Victoria guide on rooming houses
.
Top University Locations for Rooming House Investments in 2025
Based on enrolment growth, housing shortages, and affordability pressures, the following university locations present strong opportunities for investors seeking consistent occupancy and healthy cash flow from rooming house investments:
University of Melbourne (Parkville Campus, Melbourne):
Its central location and international reputation drive strong demand for affordable accommodation. Suburbs such as Carlton, North Melbourne, and Brunswick remain highly suitable for rooming house operations.Monash University (Clayton & Caulfield Campuses, Melbourne):
With one of Australia’s largest student populations and limited on-campus housing, surrounding suburbs continue to be ideal for rooming house investments.RMIT University (Melbourne CBD):
A large international and domestic student cohort sustains demand across the CBD and inner-north precincts.Deakin University (Burwood & Geelong):
Deakin’s multi-campus footprint creates strong demand in both metropolitan and regional markets suited to rooming house accommodation.La Trobe University (Bundoora, Melbourne):
The relative affordability of Melbourne’s outer north makes Bundoora and nearby suburbs attractive for compliant rooming house investments.Curtin University (Perth):
Perth’s growing student population and rental affordability challenges are increasing demand for well-managed rooming houses.University of Queensland (Brisbane):
Suburbs surrounding St Lucia continue to experience strong demand for shared and affordable accommodation options.University of Technology Sydney (UTS) & University of Sydney:
Inner-Sydney remains resilient, with rooming houses becoming increasingly relevant in suburbs such as Newtown, Redfern, and Marrickville.Griffith University (Brisbane & Gold Coast):
Consistent enrolment growth across multiple campuses supports long-term demand for rooming house accommodation.Australian National University (Canberra):
Canberra’s population growth and student demand continue to drive interest in professionally managed rooming houses.
Why Investors Should Focus on University Precincts
Consistent Tenant Demand: Universities generate year-round demand from students and young professionals.
Strong Rental Yields: Renting rooms individually can produce higher combined income than standard leases.
Lower Vacancy Risk: Ongoing student turnover helps minimise downtime between tenancies.
Council Alignment: Many councils support compliant affordable accommodation near education hubs.
Value-Add Opportunities: Conversions and upgrades can significantly improve returns when done correctly.
How Jabel Property Helps Investors Succeed
At Jabel Property, we specialise in identifying, developing, and managing compliant rooming house investments across Melbourne and selected interstate markets. Our services include:
Assessing properties near high-demand university locations
Feasibility analysis and cashflow modelling
Rooming house compliance audits and approvals
Conversion and renovation project management
Ongoing rooming house management and tenanting
We remove complexity and risk—helping both first-time and experienced investors build resilient, high-yield rooming house portfolios.
Conclusion: Secure Your Next High-Yield Rooming House Investment
As demand for affordable accommodation near universities continues to grow, compliant and well-managed rooming houses are positioned as one of the most resilient investment strategies available. By focusing on the right locations and partnering with experienced operators, investors can achieve strong, long-term cashflow.
If you would like assistance identifying, assessing, or managing a rooming house near a major university, speak with the Jabel Property team today.