‘Most Hostels Are Full’: Pune Students Face Accommodation Crisis Ahead of Admissions

Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Pune, 9th June 2026: As colleges and universities across Pune begin the new academic session, thousands of students arriving from different parts of Maharashtra and the country are facing a familiar challenge—finding affordable accommodation. With demand for hostels and paying guest (PG) facilities rising every year, rents have increased significantly, adding to the financial burden on students and their families.

Widely known as the “Oxford of the East,” Pune attracts nearly 2.5 lakh outstation students annually due to its large number of educational institutions, including universities, engineering colleges, management institutes, and professional training centres. However, the city’s student housing infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with the growing influx.

Students searching for accommodation say hostel operators and landlords are demanding higher rents, substantial security deposits and additional maintenance charges. Many report that even shared rooms have become increasingly expensive, while hostels offering basic amenities are charging rates once associated with premium accommodations.

A first-year student who recently arrived in Pune said that despite spending several days searching for accommodation, finding a hostel within budget remains difficult. Several hostels near major educational institutions are already fully occupied, while others have waiting lists stretching for weeks.

Rising Demand, Limited Availability

According to available estimates, Pune has around 1,000 private hostels catering to students. However, with lakhs of students arriving every year, the existing accommodation capacity is proving inadequate.

As a result, many students are forced to opt for expensive

accommodation or stay farther away from their colleges, increasing both travel costs and commuting time. Areas such as Karve Road, FC Road, Deccan, Sadashiv Peth, Sinhagad Road, Senapati Bapat Road, Kothrud, Viman Nagar, Wakad and Kondhwa continue to witness high demand for student housing.

Rents Reach New Highs

Students report that accommodation costs vary considerably depending on location, facilities and proximity to educational institutions.

Current rates reported by students include:
* Shared hostel rooms: ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per month
* Accommodation in prime locations: ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 per month
* Fully furnished and air-conditioned facilities: ₹9,000 to ₹12,000 per month

In addition to monthly rent, many students are required to pay security deposits, maintenance charges, electricity bills and meal expenses, further increasing the overall cost of living.

Students Speak Out

Radhika Sharma, a mass communication student, told Punekar News, “I stayed in a hostel in Viman Nagar for nearly two years, but eventually shifted out because it was becoming too expensive. With hostel fees, deposits and daily expenses adding up to around ₹2.5 lakh to ₹3 lakh or more, many students are now looking for shared flats as a more affordable alternative.”

Sakshi Pandhare, a student of Vishwakarma University in Kondhwa, said finding suitable accommodation has become increasingly difficult.

“Finding a hostel near my college has become extremely difficult. Most accommodations are either full or charge rents beyond a student’s budget. The search itself has become stressful for both students and parents.”

Rishi Sahu, a student of VIIT, Kondhwa, highlighted the burden of advance payments and security deposits.

“Many PG owners demand a hefty security deposit along with advance rent. For students coming from other cities, arranging such an amount at the beginning of the academic year is a major challenge.”

Sameer Tadvi, a student of Wadia College, said rising rents are forcing students to compromise on convenience.

“Affordable accommodation near educational institutions is becoming rare. Students are often forced to stay far from campus, which increases daily travel expenses and commuting time.”

Sunita Japtap, a student of Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), stressed that affordability should not come at the cost of safety.
“Safety, cleanliness and affordability are the three most important factors for students. Unfortunately, finding a place that offers all three has become increasingly difficult in Pune.”

Manisha Chaudhari from Ajeenkya DY Patil University believes the situation may worsen if additional accommodation options are not developed.

“With the growing number of students arriving every year, the demand for hostels has increased significantly. Authorities and institutions should work towards creating more affordable housing options.”

Prachi Bhosale, a student of APJ College, Wakad, said rising accommodation expenses are creating additional pressure on students and their families.

“Students who come to Pune for higher education often struggle to find accommodation within their budget. Rising hostel rents and additional charges are making student life more challenging. More affordable and secure housing options are needed near educational institutions.”

Safety and Hygiene Remain Key Concerns

Beyond affordability, students are also concerned about safety, sanitation and basic living conditions. Female students, in particular, often prioritise security measures, location and accessibility when choosing accommodation.

Several students reported that while some hostels offer modern facilities, others lack adequate maintenance, cleanliness and proper security arrangements. Many said they are often forced to choose between affordability and quality.

Calls for Better Student Housing

Parents accompanying students during admissions have also expressed concern over the rising cost of accommodation in Pune. Many believe educational institutions and authorities should work together to increase hostel capacity and improve access to affordable student housing.

Students have urged universities, colleges, private operators and civic authorities to explore affordable housing solutions and improve the availability of safe and secure accommodation near major educational hubs.

With admissions underway and thousands more students expected to arrive in Pune in the coming weeks, the city’s student accommodation crunch is likely to remain a major concern, highlighting the urgent need for accessible, affordable and safe housing options for the next generation of learners.