Firms Invested $300 Million in Student Housing Projects
Society Hill Capital and Liberty Group have backed three new residential developments near major universities.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Commercial
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Society Hill Capital and Liberty Group have finalized a $300 million investment in student housing projects across Florida and Tennessee. These new developments are set to provide 1,681 beds near the University of Florida, Florida State University, and the University of Tennessee.
Why it matters
The investment aims to meet the demand for walkable, campus-adjacent housing near flagship universities. These projects leverage private capital to expand student living options in competitive academic markets.
The three developments include 1,681 total beds across 464 units. The projects are located in Gainesville, Tallahassee, and Knoxville.
The players
Society Hill Capital
An investment firm based in Tampa that manages funds and operates as a co-GP in real estate development projects.
Liberty Group
A Tampa-based organization that manages $1.5 billion in investments and provides co-GP equity for development ventures.
908 Group
A developer specializing in multi-family and student housing projects across the United States.
Batson-Cook Development Company
A full-service real estate development firm that partners on large-scale urban and student housing infrastructure projects.
The details
Developers 908 Group and Batson-Cook Development Company are leading the construction of these housing complexes. The investments include the 511-bed Chapter House at FSU, the 684-bed Chapter House at UF, and the 486-bed Nine at the University of Tennessee.
Timeline
2025: Statehouse Gaines sold after opening fully leased.
2027: Completion of Chapter House at FSU.
2029: Completion of Gainesville and Knoxville projects.
Culture Shift
The expansion of private student housing reflects a broader shift toward amenity-heavy, walkable living environments near major universities. This trend moves away from traditional on-campus dormitory models toward professionally managed, high-density residential properties.
Students attending these universities may see an increase in modern, off-campus housing options near their campuses in the coming years. These projects are designed to increase the availability of walkable housing, potentially impacting rental demand in the immediate vicinity of these schools.
The takeaway
Large-scale private investment in student housing continues to reshape the landscape around major flagship universities. Prospective student residents should monitor construction timelines as these high-density developments approach completion.
Further reading
For more on the latest trends in the industry, explore our Commercial section.
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Do you believe large private housing developments near campuses improve student living conditions in your area?
