Greece's POMIDA issues student‑housing guidance as rents climb

The Pan‑Hellenic Federation of Property Owners (POMIDA) has released a series of recommendations for students, parents and landlords as the new university admission results trigger a surge in demand for student accommodation across Athens, Thessaloniki and other Greek university towns. The advice stresses avoiding panic in the first days after admission lists are published, taking time to compare options, and not limiting the search to neighborhoods immediately adjacent to campuses. Using public‑transport links can reduce rental costs, and sharing apartments is promoted as a cost‑saving measure, with larger flats often cheaper per person. POMIDA also notes that there is no legal cap on security deposits or the number of advance payments, urging careful review of lease terms before signing. Families with sufficient means are encouraged to consider buying a property for long‑term investment rather than renting.

Data from the Spitogatos market platform show average asking rents for student apartments rising about 5 % year‑on‑year in the second quarter of 2026, with central Athens reaching €13.3 per square metre and similar upward trends in other major cities. These price pressures have intensified competition for suitable housing, prompting many families to start their search early.