Storage Unit Prices: What to Expect
What does an average storage unit cost?
When trying to figure out average storage unit prices, you have to consider their size and location. And if you choose to use climate-control storage, that will also impact the price. The average storage unit cost that you can expect to pay is between $40 and $50 monthly for a 5-foot by 5-foot unit. For slightly bigger units, like a 10-foot by 15-foot storage space, expect rates to run between $75 and $140 for a standard unit and between $115 and $150 if you want climate-control. Larger units measuring 20 feet x 20 feet are, on average, $225 monthly.Factors that impact storage unit prices
Answering the question, "how much is a storage unit?" involves understanding the factors that go into pricing. Average storage unit costs vary by size, location, unit type, and access convenience. Let's dig into these factors a bit deeper:Unit size
The size of the unit is a key determinant of pricing. Storage unit prices will be the lowest for smaller units and will increase with size. So, think about what you need to store and how much space it is going to take up.Storage facility location
If you're living in or around a metropolitan area, you'll find competitive pricing among large storage facilities. The further you drive away from these areas, the lower the rates go. However, if you need quick access, it might be worth paying the difference.Type of unit
Indoor units with climate control are going to be priced higher. Items that might need climate-controlled units include antiques, electronics, collectibles, and other valuables needing protection from humidity and extreme temperatures. On the other hand, outdoor units that allow for drive-up access are convenient for loading and unloading (and have a lower price). Typically, you can find indoor and outdoor options at most facilities.Convenient access
Storage units on the lower floors of a large, multi-floor facility have a higher price compared to those on the upper levels. That cost for convenience is worth it if you need to carry items in and out frequently.Security deposits
Many storage unit facilities require renters to pay a security deposit. These deposits are usually refundable and are necessary for protecting the company against any possible damage to the unit. If you don't provide adequate notice when terminating your lease or if you damage your unit, the company might not return your deposit.To give you an idea of storage unit costs, here is some example pricing:
How much does a storage unit cost according to location? Let's look at the differences in prices between urban locations and rural or suburban locations. In the tables below, find examples from companies in Newark, New Jersey (urban), and the Brookline, Massachusetts, area.Urban Location: Newark, New Jersey
| Company | Unit Dimensions | Climate-Controlled? | Price | | ---------------------- | ------------------- | ----------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | StorageBlue | 5x7 | Y | $99/month | | SmartStop Self-Storage | 5x9 | Y | $43/month | | Extra Space Storage | 5x5 | N | $35/month |Rural/Suburban Location: Brookline, Massachusetts area
| Company | Unit Dimensions | Climate-Controlled? | Price | | -------------------------------------- | ------------------- | ----------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Longwood Storage Company | 5x5 | N | $99/month | | Value Store-it Self Storage in Allston | 5x5 | Y | $43/month | | Public Storage – Everett | 5x5 | N | $35/month | *Pricing as of June 2020. Check each company's website for the most up-to-date pricing and offerings.Choosing the right size storage unit
In addition to figuring out the best storage unit cost, you must also determine what's going to fit into each size unit. Here are examples of various storage unit sizes and what can typically fit into each:- 5x5 unit: Boxes, small furniture (like chairs), tall and thin objects (like floor lamps)
- 5x10 unit: One or two pieces of furniture, bicycle, lawnmower, motorcycle, and up to 15 boxes
- 5x15 unit: The contents of a one-bedroom apartment minus its large appliances
- 10x10 unit: The contents of a one-bedroom apartment, including one or two major appliances
- 10x15 unit: The content of a two-bedroom apartment, including one or two large appliances
- 10x20 unit: Storage for a two or three-bedroom apartment, or accommodations for a compact or certain mid-sized cars
- 10x30 unit: Storage available for contents of a two or three-bedroom home or apartment. Or you can use the storage unit's space to store a boat, full-sized vehicle, or a commercial trailer.
- 20x20 unit: These extra-large storage units are optimal for businesses or commercial customers.
