Rent, Stress, and Student Success in Missoula

This research examines the impact of the rental housing market in Missoula, Montana, on the well-being of undergraduate students at the University of Montana and Missoula College. As rental prices rise and housing options become increasingly limited, students are encountering significant challenges in securing affordable housing. This has a direct effect on their financial stability, mental health, and overall life satisfaction. This study aims to better understand these challenges by surveying students about their current housing situations, financial stress, and mental health concerns. The survey results will provide insights into the specific factors contributing to housing difficulties and their broader effects on student well-being. Based on the findings, a user-friendly website will be developed to offer personalized housing recommendations tailored to students' unique needs. The goal is to help students more effectively navigate Missoula’s competitive housing market, providing them with a practical tool to find affordable living options and improve their quality of life. Additionally, this research contributes to the broader conversation on housing affordability, highlighting the challenges faced by students in similar urban environments. By addressing the intersection of housing, financial stress, and mental health, this project seeks to not only improve the housing search experience but also raise awareness about the pressing need for more affordable student housing in cities with similar growing issues worldwide.