Space is at a premium, but peace of mind doesn’t have to be.
If you have ever found yourself wishing for a bit more room, you’re not alone.
In fact, around 10% of American households rent a self-storage unit at any given time.
Whether it’s to declutter, store seasonal items, or hold onto belongings during a move, self-storage has become an essential part of life for millions.
The self-storage industry is expanding rapidly and generating a staggering $39.5 billion in revenue annually.
It is projected to reach $49.10 billion by 2025.
But when it comes to choosing a storage unit, one of the most common questions is, "How much are self-storage units?”
The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.
Prices depend on several factors like unit size and location and whether you need features like climate control.
For instance, the average cost of a 10x10 unit in New York can reach up to $244 per month.
And in smaller cities like Phoenix, it’s as low as $115.
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So, if you are feeling overwhelmed by all the options, don’t worry.
We are here to break down everything you need to know related to self-storage unit costs.
Basics of Self-Storage Costs
On average, the cost of renting a self-storage unit in the United States ranges from $60 to $300 per month.
The price is based on the size of the unit, the location of the facility, and whether the unit has additional features.
In 2024, the average monthly rate for a 10x10 non-climate-controlled unit was approximately $121, and a climate-controlled unit of the same size cost around $135.
If you go for smaller spaces like 5x5 units, prices can start as low as $35 per month,
It makes them one of the cheap self-storage unit options for people with minimal storage needs
Factors Affecting Self-Storage Costs
Several elements influence how much you will pay for self-storage.
Location
The price can fluctuate dramatically based on where you live.
For instance, a 10x10 unit in New York City might cost around $244 per month. In smaller cities like Phoenix, the same unit can be as low as $115 per month.
If you want to save, check storage facilities that are a bit further from city centers.
Unit Size
The size of the storage unit is one of the biggest determinants of cost.
Here’s a quick breakdown of average prices by size in 2024.
5x5: $35 - $60/month
5x10: $58 - $80/month
10x10: $105 - $135/month
10x20: $140 - $190/month
Larger units like 10x30 can go up to $270 per month.
Climate-Controlled vs. Standard Units:
If you are storing sensitive items like electronics, artwork, or furniture, a climate-controlled unit may be necessary.
These units typically cost 17% more than standard ones.
For example, a climate-controlled 10x10 unit averages around $135 per month and a standard one of the same size may cost $121 per month
Seasonal Demand:
Storage unit prices change with demand.
During peak moving seasons like summer, prices increase.
Conversely, renting in the winter can save you some money since demand dips.
How Much Does the Average Storage Unit Cost?
Let's go through it step by step so you have a clear idea of what to expect when renting a storage unit.
The Basics - What’s the Average Cost?
The average cost for a storage unit in the U.S. ranges depending on the size and features.
On average:
A standard 5x5 unit costs between $35 to $60 per month.
A 5x10 unit goes for $58 to $80 per month.
For the popular 10x10 unit, you’re looking at around $105 to $135 monthly.
Of course, these are just the basics. Prices can be higher if you need additional features like climate control.
Unit Size
The size of the storage unit is one of the biggest cost factors.
| Unit Size | Dimensions (Feet) | Average Cost (Standard) | Average Cost (Climate-Controlled) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5x5 | 25 sq. ft. | $35 - $60 | $50 - $75 |
| 5x10 | 50 sq. ft. | $58 - $80 | $70 - $100 |
| 10x10 | 100 sq. ft. | $105 - $135 | $120 - $150 |
| 10x15 | 150 sq. ft. | $121 - $160 | $145 - $180 |
| 10x20 | 200 sq. ft. | $140 - $190 | $170 - $225 |
| 10x30 | 300 sq. ft. | $200 - $270 | $250 - $320 |
Location
Urban areas or cities with high demand for storage space will typically have higher prices. For example:
| City | Average Cost (10x10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New York, N | $244 | High demand, urban area |
| Los Angeles, CA | $239 | Urban area, high competition |
| Phoenix, AZ | $115 | Lower demand, suburban area |
| Dallas, TX | $107 | Affordable urban option |
Vehicle Storage Costs
If you need to store vehicles like cars, RVs, or boats, the type of storage affects pricing:
Outdoor Vehicle Storage: $92 - $150/month (great for RVs and boats).
Covered Vehicle Storage: $100 - $180/month (provides some protection from weather).
Indoor Vehicle Storage: $148 - $270/month (ideal for long-term or sensitive vehicle storage).
| Vehicle Type | Storage Option | Average Cost (per Month) |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle | Indoor 5x10 | $92 - $120 |
| Compact Car | Indoor 10x15 | $148 - $170 |
| RV/Boat | Outdoor/Covered 10x40 | $109 - $269 |
Additional Costs
Most facilities require insurance to protect your stored items.
This might add about $10 to $20/month.
Some facilities include insurance in their rental fees, but always check to avoid surprises.
Additionally, some storage companies may charge:
Administrative Fees: One-time setup fees ranging from $15-$25.
Late Fees: If you miss a payment, expect penalties from $10 to $50 based on your lease agreement.
How to Find Cheap Self-Storage Units
There are always ways to secure cheap self-storage units:
Location Flexibility: Choosing a storage facility outside of busy metropolitan areas can save you up to 50%.
Long-Term Leases: Commit to a longer-term lease as it can reduce monthly rates.
Online Discounts: Many storage companies provide online booking discounts that can save you 10-20% off your first month.
Seasonal Promotions: Always rent during off-peak seasons (like winter). You can also minimize costs by using first-month free promotions.
Top Markets for Self-Storage in 2025
The cost of self-storage varies greatly across different U.S. cities.
Here are some of the highest and lowest averages:
Highest
Honolulu, HI: $299/month
San Francisco, CA: $262/month
New York City, NY: $244/month
Lowest
Oklahoma City, OK: $68/month
Phoenix, AZ: $115/month
Dallas, TX: $107/month
