The project focuses on analyzing rental market data and student housing conditions near Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) to develop evidence-based recommendations for improving student housing affordability, availability, and quality. As one of the largest universities in Atlantic Canada, MUN attracts a significant number of domestic and international students each year. However, rising rental costs in St. John's limited on/off-campus housing, and an over-reliance on the private rental market have created challenges for students seeking safe, affordable, and accessible housing. 

This project aims to evaluate market rental data, analyze field research and student feedback, and identify key affordability gaps and housing challenges facing MUN students. Researchers will use skills in data analysis, housing economics, and urban planning to assess affordability thresholds, student needs, and market constraints. The ultimate goal is to produce a research report that provides actionable insights to inform university administrators, policymakers, and local stakeholders in addressing housing affordability challenges. This analysis will also contribute to a better understanding of housing issues in smaller urban centres and how they impact students in Atlantic Canada. Research activities will include:

• Analyzing publicly available housing data from CMHC, Statistics Canada, Private Rental Listing Marketplaces/Databases, etc…;
• Collecting field research and survey data on MUN student housing conditions, including affordability, accessibility, and quality concerns;
• Conducting affordability gap analysis to measure the disparity between student budgets and local rental prices;
• Mapping housing options and rental availability near MUN, with particular attention to student-heavy neighbourhoods (Elizabeth Avenue, Churchill Square, downtown St. John’s);
• Developing a comprehensive research report with findings and recommendations for expanding and improving affordable student housing in St. John’s.

The project will culminate in a comprehensive market research report detailing the findings of the MUN student housing affordability analysis. This report will include data visualizations, key insights, and recommendations for action. Additionally, a presentation summarizing the findings will be prepared for stakeholders, and communications materials will be created to raise awareness of student housing challenges. Project deliverables include:

• Comprehensive research report with visualized data and key insights
• Social media assets to highlight key findings.;
• Research brief with recommendations to improve affordability for MUN students;
• Presentation for relevant stakeholders summarizing findings and recommendations.