India’s Co-living Sector to Reach One Million Beds by 2030

As India’s cities continue to grow and transform, the co-living sector is quickly becoming a significant part of the nation’s housing story. With more people, especially students and young professionals, moving to cities in search of education and work, traditional rental housing no longer fits everyone’s needs. Co-living offers an alternative—shared living spaces that are not only more affordable, but also come with services, flexibility, and a sense of community.

A recent report by Colliers India projects that the country’s organised co-living inventory will grow from roughly 300,000 beds today to nearly one million by 2030. This threefold increase marks a major shift in how India is addressing the housing needs of its urban population. The majority of this demand comes from people between the ages of 20 and 34—those beginning careers or pursuing higher education—who are looking for convenience without the long-term burden of ownership or traditional leases.

Urban Growth and Changing Needs

Urbanisation in India is taking place at a rapid pace. Millions are migrating to cities each year in search of better jobs and lifestyles. As of 2025, the demand for co-living beds has reached approximately 6.6 million, and it is expected to increase to 9.1 million by 2030. Despite this demand, organised co-living accounts for only 5% of the market today. With planned expansion, this figure could rise to over 10% by the end of the decade.

This growing acceptance of co-living is due to its many advantages. Monthly rents for co-living spaces are often 20–35% lower than traditional 1BHK flats. In cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi-NCR, these shared accommodations come fully furnished and include services such as housekeeping, internet, and social events. These features are especially attractive to younger tenants who want a lifestyle that’s affordable and stress-free.

Student Housing: A Key Focus

Within this sector, student housing is emerging as a particularly urgent area of need. India’s colleges and universities can currently provide accommodation for only about 4 million students, which meets just 35–40% of actual demand. That leaves an estimated 12 million students in need of safe, affordable housing by 2025.

This gap presents an opportunity for developers to build dedicated student housing that is professionally managed, well-maintained, and close to academic institutions. With the rise of private universities and students moving to new cities for education, demand for such solutions is only expected to increase.

Looking Ahead

The future of co-living in India is not limited to major metros. Growth is already spreading to tier-2 and tier-3 cities, where infrastructure is improving and job opportunities are increasing. Technology, flexible contracts, and community-driven services will define the next generation of co-living spaces.

With government policies supporting urban development and housing innovation, co-living is set to become a central feature of India’s urban landscape. It is no longer just a trend, but a lasting shift in how people choose to live.