Zagreb faces student housing shortage, mayor offers city land

Zagreb is grappling with a significant shortage of student accommodation, with an estimated 2,000 beds missing as the new academic year approaches. The situation is further complicated by ongoing renovations at the Studentski dom Stjepan Radić, which have rendered approximately 830 beds temporarily unavailable.

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The Student Center, which organizes student accommodation, is a state institution. So, it is the state's responsibility to organize student accommodation.

During a press conference, Zagreb Mayor Tomislav Tomašević addressed the issue, clarifying that student housing falls outside the city's direct jurisdiction. "The Student Center, which organizes student accommodation, is a state institution. So, it is the state's responsibility to organize student accommodation," Tomašević explained.

However, the mayor expressed the city's willingness to support future initiatives. "We are certainly willing to help if land or other assistance is needed for future projects," he stated. This offer highlights a potential avenue for collaboration between the city and state authorities to address the growing demand for student housing.

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We are certainly willing to help if land or other assistance is needed for future projects.

Beyond dormitories, Tomašević pointed to the broader issue of rising rental costs in Zagreb, which also impacts students seeking private accommodation. The city is actively pursuing solutions by constructing affordable rental housing, with a large building containing over 300 units nearing completion in Podbrežje. Additional projects are planned for Sesvetski Kraljevac and Borovje, aiming to increase the overall housing supply, which could indirectly benefit students.

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If the situation were easier regarding rental prices in Zagreb in general, then students would certainly find it easier to cope, and the lack of capacity in dormitories would be less problematic.