Data from the platform idealista reveals that, in the second quarter of 2026, interest in such accommodation rose by 27% nationwide, while the supply of rooms on the market fell by 11%. Despite the pressure on availability, average rents for shared housing rose modestly by 1% compared to the same period in 2025.

Price hikes were observed in 13 of the 20 municipalities analysed; Funchal and Vila Real led the increases, both rising by 14%, followed by Beja (12%) and Ponta Delgada and Santarém (8%).

Lisbon’s rates remained stable year-on-year, yet it remains the country’s most expensive city for renting a room, with a monthly average of €550, ahead of Funchal (€500) and Porto (where the average price stands at €450). Conversely, the most affordable options are found in Guarda and Bragança, with median prices of €210 and €220 per month, respectively.

Demand dynamics showed significant shifts in university and regional hubs, with Beja recording a growth peak of 160%, followed by Coimbra at 120% and Porto at 104%.

The rise in demand in these latter two urban centres coincided with the country’s sharpest declines in available room volume, as supply fell by 48% in Coimbra and 43% in Porto. Conversely, cities such as Ponta Delgada, Bragança, and Funchal saw listings grow by over 60%, easing pressure on the local market.