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Back-to-School Season & Its Impact on Corporate Housing and Global Mobility
As summer winds down and students head back to school, the corporate housing and global mobility industries experience their own seasonal shifts. While many think of August and September as a quieter travel period compared to the peak summer relocation rush, back-to-school season still brings notable impacts for both housing availability and relocation planning.
1. Changes in Housing Availability & Pricing
• Tighter inventory in family-friendly areas: Communities near top-rated school districts often see reduced availability during this time, as families settle in before the academic year begins.
• Slight rent stabilization in urban centers: Many multifamily communities wrap up summer leasing promotions, and rates level off as leasing demand shifts toward suburban areas.
• Short-term lease flexibility can decrease: Some properties are less inclined to offer month-to-month or short-term corporate housing agreements as they focus on locking in long-term residents before winter.
2. Mobility Program Timing Shifts
• Family relocation delays: Employees with school-aged children often delay moves until the next summer cycle, which can cause a temporary slowdown in family moves and an uptick in single-traveler relocations.
• Increased demand for temporary housing as “bridge” accommodations: For those who must relocate mid-school year, furnished housing becomes a critical tool to keep families comfortable while they transition to a permanent home.
3. Strategic Opportunities for Clients
• Leverage corporate housing for recruitment: For companies hiring talent during this period, offering fully furnished housing near schools can be a key incentive for candidates with families.
• Cost optimization: With some urban rental rates softening post-summer, back-to-school season can present opportunities for better pricing in certain markets.
• Employee wellbeing: Providing stable, turnkey housing during the back-to-school transition helps minimize stress for employees balancing work responsibilities with their children’s new academic schedules.
Bottom Line:
While back-to-school season doesn’t always create the same market pressures as peak summer, it’s a unique window where housing dynamics shift—and companies that anticipate these trends can secure better housing solutions for their relocating employees.
How PCH Can Help:
Preferred Corporate Housing’s nationwide network and expert sourcing team ensure you have the right housing—whether you’re moving employees mid-school year, bridging a gap to permanent housing, or targeting key school districts for family relocations.