Student Housing Grills and Shared BBQ Spaces Are Transforming Off-Campus Living

7-minute read | Grills

On average, a four-year college degree costs more than $100,000, and students have clear expectations regarding the amenities provided at housing facilities. Among the trending extras students are demanding are shared grills and communal BBQ areas.

Considering that college campuses usually feature fitness centers, libraries, and student life hubs, it makes sense that students would want to unwind and cook meals on a BBQ grill while enjoying time outdoors with friends. Property managers overseeing student housing, as well as architects designing future college living spaces, should seriously consider integrating a commercial-grade grill into the grounds to enhance the college experience. Student housing commercial grills could be a key differentiator for potential residents looking to maximize their off-campus living experience.

Top College Life Amenities Students Crave

It's crucial for property managers and developers to remember that young adults place a high value on their college experience. This includes not just getting an education but also forming friendships and enjoying a comfortable daily routine. The following amenities are among the most desired by college students.

  • Recreational Centers
  • Enhanced Mail Services
  • Better Parking
  • Rock Climbing Walls
  • Golf Simulators
  • Fire Pits and Outdoor Cooking Areas

Students residing in on-campus dorms often find the environment sterile, restrictive, and lacking in appealing amenities. University administrators are unlikely to invest in a patio grill outside dorms since dining halls already cater to food needs.

The typical college graduate leaves with a diploma and nearly $60,000 in student loan debt. If they're paying a premium to live off-campus, it better be worth it.

How Popular Are BBQ Grills?

Some of the trends in what today’s college students want may fade away, but the growing popularity of outdoor patio grills suggests that shared BBQ areas will continue to positively influence housing decisions.

In the U.S., gas grill sales have climbed from $1.32 billion in 2017 to $1.53 billion annually. By 2023, natural gas and liquid propane grill sales are projected to reach $1.58 billion and grow to $1.73 billion by 2025. The steady rise in patio grill sales indicates that adding a BBQ will soon become a standard amenity.

Forbes magazine even highlighted the return of "BBQ University" at the Broadmoor Resort in Colorado. After a temporary closure due to ownership changes, the grilling education center reopened to great enthusiasm. BBQ University also aired a series on PBS for four seasons.

People are clearly drawn to the idea of cooking mouth-watering meats, chicken, fish, and veggie kabobs over an open flame that seals in flavors. Shared BBQ areas are extremely popular among young adults learning to perfect their burger, steak, or grilled vegetable game while pursuing a degree. Student housing grills are here to stay.

How to Incorporate Student Housing Grills

Property owners, developers, and housing designers need to find a commercial grill line that meets all criteria for durability, safety, and efficient use. The PGS patio grill line offers industry-leading natural gas and liquid propane grills ideal for off-campus life.

Given the rising interest in outdoor cooking and the expected heavy use of student housing grills, they must be commercial grade. Stainless steel products are generally the most durable, and PGS grills provide expansive direct cooking areas. Each commercial grill should be secured to ensure safety and reduce the risk of theft. This can be achieved through fixed countertops, prefabricated grilling islands, or pedestal mounts that can be bolted down. The PGS T-series might be the best option for student housing.

PGS T-Series Patio Grill Line Offers Enhanced Safety Features

Property owners and developers should consider how many residents each off-campus housing facility will accommodate. In multi-unit settings, smaller or modest-sized outdoor grills won't suffice, and safety is a priority. The PGS T-Series patio grills offer large direct grilling spaces needed for group gatherings and meal prep. The T-Series S27T, S36T, and S48T models include these essential safety features.

  • One-Hour Auto-Shutoff Timer: Built into the grill as a safety measure, this timer prevents accidental burns by shutting off after 60 minutes. It also conserves fuel.
  • Matchless Ignition: Each grill comes with a battery-powered ignition system, reducing the risk of lighting burns.
  • Heat Indicator: Side-mounted heat indicators show exactly how hot the grill is for safe and precise cooking.

The T-Series also features laser-etched instructions on the control panel, ensuring users know how to operate the grill safely. Such permanent instructions can lower premises insurance costs.

Top 3 Student Housing Grill Models

The PGS S27T, S36T, and S48T models provide extensive direct cooking space, high heat output, and thoughtful design elements, making them perfect for communal BBQ areas. These are among the standout features of these stainless steel commercial grills, which are widely used in apartments, condos, and resorts.

  • PGS S27T Patio Grill: This model offers 540 square inches of direct grilling area and produces 45,000 BTUs. It can be mounted on a slim pedestal or serve as the centerpiece of an outdoor kitchen. An optional warming rack is available for indirect cooking.
  • PGS S36T Patio Grill: Delivering 720 square inches of direct grilling area and 67,000 BTUs, the S36T is ideal for larger groups. An optional warming rack is also available.
  • PGS S48T Patio Grill: With 960 square inches of direct cooking space and 90,000 BTUs, this model can easily handle large gatherings. It can be equipped with an expansive warming rack.

When planning a new student housing project or upgrading existing common areas, it's important to note that the PGS T-Series grills come with self-cleaning cooking grates and a five-year replacement warranty. Made in the USA, these stainless steel grills are durable, weather-resistant, and designed to last.

If student housing developers and property management companies aim to attract college students willing to pay a premium for off-campus living, communal BBQ areas will remain a compelling incentive. Condos, apartment complexes, hotels, and resorts are already capitalizing on the outdoor grill trend, and industry sales growth confirms its staying power.

Go Back To Blog


Need more info? Have questions? Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to assist!


  1. * Required Information

Round Magnet

Round Magnet,Powerful Magnets Round Magnet,High Performance Round Magnets,Super Strong Round Magnets,customizable sintered NdFeb magnets

GEILI Magnetic Industry Co., LTD , https://www.geilimagnet.com