India’s Coliving Boom: One Million Beds by 2030, Says Colliers

As India’s urban landscape continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, the coliving sector is emerging as a transformative force in the country’s real estate market. According to a comprehensive Colliers India report, the organized coliving inventory in India is poised to expand dramatically-from approximately 300,000 beds today to nearly one million by 2030. This remarkable growth trajectory represents a threefold increase in less than a decade and signals a profound shift in how urban housing needs are addressed, especially for the country’s burgeoning population of students and young professionals.

Urban Migration and the Rise of Coliving

India is witnessing rapid urbanization, with millions migrating to cities in search of better education, employment, and lifestyle opportunities. This demographic shift is particularly pronounced among the 20–34 age group, which includes a large number of students and early-career professionals. These individuals are increasingly seeking housing solutions that offer flexibility, affordability, and a sense of community-qualities that traditional rental accommodations often lack. Coliving spaces, with their shared amenities, hassle-free maintenance, and vibrant social environments, are perfectly positioned to meet these evolving demands.

As of 2025, the demand for coliving beds is estimated at 6.6 million, a figure that is expected to surge to 9.1 million by 2030. This growth is driven by the rising number of urban migrants who prioritize convenience and cost-effectiveness without compromising on lifestyle. The Colliers report highlights that coliving penetration-the ratio of organized coliving inventory to the total demand-is currently around 5%. However, with the planned expansion of inventory to nearly one million beds, this penetration rate is expected to more than double, reaching over 10% by the end of the decade. This shift underscores a growing acceptance and preference for coliving as a mainstream housing option in India’s urban centers.

Market Dynamics and Investment Potential

The coliving sector’s rapid growth is underpinned by a strong value proposition for both residents and investors. From a tenant’s perspective, coliving offers a significant rental cost advantage compared to traditional housing. For instance, in Bengaluru, monthly rents for single-occupancy coliving units range from ₹11,700 to ₹23,700, whereas comparable 1BHK apartments command rents between ₹15,500 and ₹36,500. Similar trends are observed in Mumbai and Delhi-NCR, where coliving rents are consistently 20–35% lower than traditional rentals. This affordability, combined with inclusive amenities such as housekeeping, Wi-Fi, and community events, makes coliving particularly attractive to young professionals and students who seek hassle-free living

Student Housing: Addressing a Critical Gap

Within the broader coliving ecosystem, student housing stands out as a vital and underserved segment. India’s higher education system hosts millions of out-of-town students who require safe, affordable, and well-managed accommodation near their institutions. According to the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) for FY2021-22, colleges and universities provide accommodation for only about 4 million students, fulfilling just 35–40% of the actual demand. This leaves a significant shortfall, with an estimated 12 million students in need of suitable housing as of 2025.

This acute demand-supply gap presents a tremendous opportunity for developers and operators to introduce professionally managed, student-centric housing solutions. Such offerings can alleviate the chronic shortage of quality accommodation, reduce the burden on educational institutions, and enhance the overall student experience. As more students migrate to urban centers for quality education, the need for scalable, affordable, and community-focused housing will only intensify, making student housing a critical growth driver within the coliving sector.

The Road Ahead: Shaping India’s Urban Living Future

The next decade promises to be transformative for India’s coliving landscape. As the sector expands beyond major metros into tier-2 and tier-3 cities, it is expected to adapt and innovate in response to diverse market needs. Enhanced technology integration, flexible lease structures, and curated community experiences will further differentiate coliving from traditional rental housing.

Moreover, government initiatives aimed at promoting affordable housing and urban development are likely to create a more enabling environment for coliving growth. The sector’s ability to offer cost-effective, scalable, and socially engaging housing solutions aligns well with India’s broader urbanization and economic development goals.

In conclusion, India’s coliving sector is not just a passing trend but a fundamental shift in urban housing dynamics. With strong demand fundamentals, growing investor interest, and a clear value proposition for residents, coliving is set to redefine how millions of Indians live, work, and connect in cities. The journey to one million beds by 2030 marks the beginning of a new chapter in India’s real estate story-one that promises inclusivity, innovation, and vibrant community living.