<p>At my son’s college, some of the most popular dorms are the oldest. They have cinderblock walls and no air conditioning, but lots of character and they are very close to the academic buildings. They also have hallways, which make it easier to get to know all the people on your floor vs. other dorms have suites where you need a key card to get into see a group of 6 rooms. The brand new dorms have now gone back to the long hallway design.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, a private company is building a new super-luxury apartment complex off-campus. They are skimming off the most profitable part of the market, but it is still a small percentage of the student body.</p>
<p>A number of public colleges have brought private companies onto their campuses to replace old dorms. The new housing is twice the price, with many amenities.</p>