Concerns some Otago University students will begin the semester living out of their cars

Trade Me figures show the region's rent has increased by 11.6 percent in the past year, while Southland's is up nearly seven-percent.

Students' Association President, Liam White says flat affordability was an issue last year, and it's already proving to be more problematic in 2025.

He says it's scary to hear from students moving to Dunedin to study, that they'll be living out of their cars and unable to afford dinner.