Senior Spotlight: University-Senior Living Trend Momentum Continues

Earlier this month, Senior Housing News reported that while construction and lending costs are slowing down the development of new senior housing, there is one key area where momentum continues: university-senior living projects. According to the publication, “senior living designers and architects are still partnering with operators looking to open and operate communities on university campuses or very near them.”

Earlier in 2026, it was reported that approximately 85-100 senior living communities are located on or near college campuses – all with some type of formal relationship. Architecture firms and senior living consultants attest that “university projects are still hot and getting ever-hotter in 2026.” In one example, a 125-unit community in Baltimore, Maryland (in partnership with Goucher College) pre-sold all 125 apartments in 4 months - before it even broke ground. 

Why is this a ‘thing’ you might ask? A few of the benefits of university-based senior living are: 

- Seniors can enroll in courses and continue lifelong learning (next chapter!)

- Campus locations typically offer wide access to social & recreational activities 

- Interacting with younger generations stimulates cognitive unction for seniors (and keeps them young at heart!) 

- Older adults may serve as mentors or advisors to students, fostering purpose and fulfillment 

- Students may gain employment by aiding seniors with physical tasks, errands and tech support 

- Universities can grow revenue from previously under-utilized land, which is critical to survival in times of declining enrollment

See more benefits as outlined by the Smith Group and the LCS Foundation. 

Have you ever considered if university living would suit your lifestyle as you age? Feel free to let us know! 

Have a great end to May,

Bobbi 

Bobbi Decker
DRE#00607999

Broker Associate
650.346.5352 cell
650.577.3127 efax
www.bobbidecker.com

NAR Instructor….“Designations Create Distinctions”
CIPS, SRS, ABR, CRS, SRES, GRI, CLHMS, REI, AHWD, RSPS, MSLG

Bobbi Decker & Associates fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. For more information, please visit: http://portal.hud.gov/