As Hostel Rents Rise, Is Pune Still Affordable for Students?
As Hostel Rents Rise, Is Pune Still Affordable for Students?
Saakshi Pandhare
Pune, 13 June, 2026: With the new academic year underway, thousands of students arriving in Pune from across Maharashtra and other parts of the country are struggling to find affordable accommodation. Increasing demand for hostels and paying guest (PG) facilities, along with limited availability of rooms, has resulted in higher rental costs, putting additional pressure on students and their families.
The city is home to several universities, engineering colleges, management institutes and professional training centres. However, the availability of student accommodation has not kept pace with the growing number of students moving to the city for education.
Many students searching for housing say they are being asked to pay higher rents, security deposits and maintenance charges. Several students have also reported that even shared rooms have become more expensive, while basic hostel facilities are now being offered at rates that were once considered premium.
Hostel rates vary depending on the location and facilities provided. In popular student areas such as Deccan, FC Road and Shivajinagar, budget hostels generally charge between ₹4,000 and ₹6,000 per month. Mid-range accommodations cost around ₹7,000 to ₹12,000, while premium hostels and co-living spaces can charge anywhere between ₹12,000 and ₹20,000 or more.
Hostel owner Anil Shinde said the increase in operating expenses has contributed to higher accommodation charges. “Electricity bills, housekeeping expenses and maintenance costs have increased over the years. Hostel fees usually range from ₹4,000 to ₹8,500 depending on the facilities, cleanliness and infrastructure provided. Students today expect better amenities and hygienic living conditions, which requires continuous investment,” he said.
Another hostel operator, Kedar Kurginkop, said hostel fees differ from one area to another and are largely based on the services offered. “The overall increase in fees has not been very significant, but different parts of Pune have different rental structures. Accommodation costs depend on the facilities available, and hostels with better amenities naturally charge more,” he said.
The widening gap between the demand for student accommodation and the available supply is one of the main reasons behind rising hostel fees. The development of more student housing projects and better infrastructure around educational hubs to make accommodation more accessible and affordable.
With admissions still in progress, more students expected to arrive in the coming weeks, the issue of affordable student housing is likely to remain a major concern in Pune, highlighting the need for long-term solutions to meet the city’s growing educational population.
