With traditional urban markets becoming more saturated, the coliving sector is increasingly looking beyond primary cities to tap into the vast potential of secondary and tertiary cities, as well as rural locations. This session will explore how these non-metropolitan spaces are becoming key opportunities for both operators and investors, offering unique advantages in terms of affordability, sustainability, and community-driven living.

As remote work continues to reshape how people live, smaller cities and rural areas are emerging as attractive alternatives to high-cost urban centres. These locations provide access to nature, larger living spaces, and a more affordable cost of living, which are appealing to a growing number of remote professionals, entrepreneurs, and those seeking a more balanced lifestyle. The trend of expanding beyond major cities is not just about offering an alternative to urban life but also about creating resilient, sustainable communities in less saturated markets.

In this session, we’ll discuss how various coliving stakeholders are successfully navigating these emerging markets, the operational considerations involved, and how investors can capitalise on these growing opportunities. Whether it's secondary cities with burgeoning creative industries or rural locations offering a peaceful retreat, we’ll explore how coliving can thrive in these less conventional but increasingly strategic locations.

What will be covered in this session?

• Investment & Market Potential: The growing opportunity in secondary and tertiary cities, as well as rural areas, and how investors can leverage these markets for long-term growth.
• Adapting Operational Models: Key operational strategies for running successful coliving spaces in non-metropolitan areas, including unique challenges and advantages in these settings.
• Sustainability & Affordability: How coliving in less saturated markets provides more sustainable and affordable living options, addressing the demands for eco-conscious, cost-effective solutions.
• Lifestyle Shifts & Demand: Exploring why remote professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs are increasingly choosing locations outside the big cities for lifestyle reasons, and the community dynamics that follow.‍
• Building the Business Case: How to build a strong business case for non-metropolitan coliving, highlighting the strategic advantages of expanding into these emerging markets.