Mainland Chinese students in Hong Kong choose pricier student housing for security and convenience

Despite higher costs, Hong Kong's student residences attract mainland Chinese renters

Mainland Chinese students in Hong Kong are choosing purpose-built student accommodation over cheaper alternatives, citing convenience and security as decisive factors that justify the premium.

Subdivided flats remain cheaper but less appealing

Qi Zhonghao, a mainland student pursuing a master's degree in robotics at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), initially spent a year in a subdivided unit converted from a village house near the university because on-campus housing was limited. He said rents for this type of subdivided accommodation are relatively low, with a single room and private bathroom costing around HK$7,000 to HK$8,000 (US$890) per month, and the location was quite close to the university.

Why students pay more for dedicated housing

Despite the higher expense, Qi and other students have since moved to off-campus student residences. Students said dedicated student housing delivers greater convenience, stronger security measures, more predictable costs and a better living environment, benefits that help offset both the higher rents and, in some cases, longer commutes.

The shift reflects growing demand among mainland renters for accommodation that prioritises reliability and amenities over rock-bottom pricing.

Source: South China Morning Post