East Midlands

Student Accommodation in Leicester

PBSA Investment Guide & Market Data

Leicester is a growing student city with two universities and a diverse student population. The city offers affordable PBSA with competitive yields. Leicester's central England location and multicultural character attract both domestic and international students.

40,000+
Students
6.0-8.0%
Net Yield
92-95%
Occupancy
£110-£160/week
Weekly Rent

Leicester PBSA in the UK context

Net yields in Leicester are typically 6.0-8.0%. Compare that band to all 26 markets in the PBSA yields by city guide before you underwrite a specific scheme. Asset value follows income and yield selection on the PBSA valuation guide, not the city table alone.

Roughly 40,000+ students and 10,000+ purpose-built beds sit in the local market — supply–demand balance depends on pipeline and university intake. Sector-wide trends and investment volume are in the UK student housing market report. Acquisition strategy and risk are covered in the student accommodation investment guide.

Universities in Leicester

University of Leicester

18,000+ students
Space ScienceMedicineLawGenetics

De Montfort University

27,000+ students
Art & DesignBusinessHealthTechnology

Investment Highlights

1

Affordable entry points with strong yield potential

2

Growing international student population

3

Central England location with excellent connectivity

4

City centre regeneration driving growth

5

De Montfort University campus investment programme

6

Diverse student demographic providing resilience

Key PBSA Areas in Leicester

City CentreClarendon ParkHighfieldsAylestoneWest End

Market Outlook

Leicester's PBSA market is growing steadily with both universities investing in campus improvements. The city's affordability attracts students from across the UK and internationally. Yields are among the most competitive in the Midlands. The market favours well-located, quality stock near both university campuses.

Transport Links

Leicester Station (Midland Main Line)
M1/M69 motorway access
East Midlands Airport (nearby)
Good bus network

Development Pipeline

Leicester has a moderate pipeline with around 1,500 beds in planning or construction. New development is focused on the city centre and areas between the two university campuses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average PBSA yield in Leicester?

PBSA yields in Leicester typically range from 6.0-8.0% net, depending on location, property quality, and operator. Properties closer to university campuses and in prime areas tend to command higher rents but may offer slightly lower yields due to higher capital values.

How many students are in Leicester?

Leicester has a student population of approximately 40,000+ across 2 universities. This includes both domestic and international students studying at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

What is the PBSA occupancy rate in Leicester?

Occupancy rates for quality PBSA in Leicester typically range from 92-95%. Well-located properties near university campuses and the city centre tend to achieve the highest occupancy rates. Occupancy can vary by quality, location, and pricing.

Which areas are best for PBSA investment in Leicester?

The key areas for PBSA investment in Leicester include City Centre, Clarendon Park, Highfields, Aylestone, West End. These areas benefit from proximity to university campuses, good transport links, and strong student demand. Properties within walking distance of campuses tend to perform best.

What are the average PBSA rents in Leicester?

Average weekly PBSA rents in Leicester range from £110-£160/week, depending on the room type (cluster, en-suite, studio), location, and amenity specification. Studio apartments command the highest rents, while cluster rooms are more affordable.

How does Leicester compare to other UK PBSA cities?

Use the PBSA yields by city guide to rank Leicester's 6.0-8.0% yield band against London, regional core, and value markets. Occupancy of 92-95% should be compared like-for-like on operator quality and campus proximity, not national averages alone.

Invest in Leicester PBSA

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