How much does a self storage unit cost per month by size and location
By Becca Updated 6 min read
On this page (8 sections)
In short: Expect roughly $30 to $300 per month for most self storage units. These figures are approximate averages based on SpareFoot national listings, the 2023 Yardi Matrix report, and sample local market listings (2022–2024). Prices vary widely by region and facility features.
Part of our guide on dehumidifier for storage unit battery
Compare real storage unit monthly prices by size and location with clear examples to budget your move confidently.
| Small unit size | 5×5 feet |
|---|---|
| Large unit size | 10×30 feet |
| Small unit cost | $30–$70 (approx.; SpareFoot 2023 median, varies by market) |
| Large unit cost | $150–$300+ (approx.; Yardi Matrix 2023, local markets) |
| Climate control cost | adds about 10–25% (SpareFoot 2023 survey; local variation) |
| Typical lease length | month-to-month |
| Location impact | regional differences can be 20–50% (Yardi Matrix 2023 regional data) |
The short version
- Storage prices depend mostly on size and location.
- Small units commonly run about $30–$70 per month (SpareFoot 2023 median).
- Medium units often cost about $80–$150 per month (SpareFoot, local listings).
- Large units commonly fall in the $150–$300+ range (Yardi Matrix 2023 and market listings).
- Climate control and added security raise rates; check local listings for exact amounts.
Typical monthly cost ranges by unit size
Larger units cost more. Size sets the base rate.
A 5×5 unit often lists for about $30–$70 per month. This range reflects national listing medians and smaller market rates (SpareFoot 2023; local listings 2022–2024).
A 10×10 unit commonly lists for about $80–$150 per month. This matches SpareFoot medians and many regional listings (2023).
A 10×30 unit commonly lists for about $150–$300 or more per month. Urban markets push that top end higher (Yardi Matrix 2023; local market samples). For the detail, see our notes on storage solutions for tight spaces.
These ranges are approximate. Check current local listings because prices change by region and season.
| Unit Size (feet) | Typical Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| 5 x 5 | $30 – $70 (SpareFoot 2023 median; local variation) |
| 10 x 10 | $80 – $150 (SpareFoot 2023; local listings) |
| 10 x 20 | $120 – $250 (market samples 2022–2024) |
| 10 x 30 | $150 – $320+ (Yardi Matrix 2023; local urban listings) |
How location affects storage unit prices
Location changes price a lot. Urban demand pushes rates up.
Dense metro areas often list 20–50% higher than suburban averages. Yardi Matrix and SpareFoot cite this spread in 2022–2023 regional data. There is more on pod storage container costs in a separate guide.
Facilities near airports, universities, and business centers often charge more because demand is higher.
Rural markets tend to list 20–40% below metro rates, but check facility quality and security when comparing.
- Urban centers: roughly 20–50% above suburban averages (Yardi Matrix 2023).
- Suburban areas: near the national median (SpareFoot 2023).
- Rural locations: roughly 20–40% below urban medians (local listings).
- Proximity to demand hubs usually increases price.
What factors influence the price
Size and location set a base price. Extra features add to that rate. We cover are ground floor units cheaper in its own article.
Climate control often raises monthly rent by about 10–25% versus non-climate units. That range comes from SpareFoot’s 2023 unit-level analysis and regional listing comparisons.
Upgraded security, including gated access, cameras, and on-site staff, often adds about 5–15% to the monthly rate (industry listing comparisons 2022–2023).
Lease length affects price. Month-to-month leases give flexibility but sometimes cost more than longer commitments. It helps to understand 2 bedroom apartment storage size before going further.
Promotions cut the initial price. Check terms because the discount may end after one or two months.
- Climate control: adds roughly 10–25% (SpareFoot 2023; local variation).
- Enhanced security: adds roughly 5–15% (market samples).
- Lease length: longer commitments can lower monthly rate.
- Promotions: reduce the first months but read the fine print.
Examples of cheap versus average cost units
A low-cost example: a 5×5 unit in a low-demand rural area listed at about $30 per month. That listing type appears in multiple local samples (2022–2024).
An average-cost example: a 10×10 in a suburban market listed near $120 per month with climate control and basic security (SpareFoot listings and local samples 2023). There is more on packing 10×10 storage unit in a separate guide.
A premium example: a 10×30 unit in a dense city listed for $300 or more per month with climate control and 24/7 security (Yardi Matrix 2023, urban listings).
These examples show how size, location, and features trade off in price. Get local quotes to confirm current rates.
| Unit Type | Size (feet) | Cost (USD/month) | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap | 5 x 5 | $30 (approx.; rural sample 2022–2024) | Rural | No climate control |
| Average | 10 x 10 | $120 (approx.; suburban listings 2023) | Suburban | Climate control, basic security |
| Premium | 10 x 30 | $300+ (approx.; urban listings 2023) | Urban | Climate control, 24/7 security |
How much is a self storage unit
Most renters pay between $30 and $300 per month. That range covers common unit sizes and markets (SpareFoot 2023; Yardi Matrix 2023).
Smaller units often list for $30–$70 per month. Medium units commonly list for $80–$150.
Large units often list for $150–$300 or more. Urban locations push the top end higher.
Add 10–25% for climate control and about 5–15% for higher security. These percentage ranges come from listing comparisons and industry reports (2022–2023).
These are approximate averages. Your exact price will depend on current local listings, seasonal demand, and facility promotions.
How to estimate total cost for your storage needs
Estimate monthly cost by picking the unit size and features you need. Then check local listings.
Step 1: List your items and estimate volume in cubic feet. Measure big items and count boxes.
Step 2: Match volume to unit sizes. Use common unit dimensions as a guide.
Step 3: Search local facility listings for those unit sizes. Note whether listings include climate control or security.
Step 4: Multiply the monthly rate by the number of months you will rent. Add insurance and any administrative fees listed.
Step 5: Ask about promotions and long-term discounts before you sign.
- Determine volume of belongings in cubic feet.
- Match to the nearest unit size.
- Check local prices for that unit size and features.
- Multiply monthly rate by rental duration.
- Add insurance and administrative fees.
Questions people still ask
Can I find cheaper storage by renting long-term?
Yes. Many facilities offer lower monthly rates for six- or twelve-month commitments. Ask local facilities for their long-term discount schedule.
Does climate control really protect fragile items?
Yes. Climate control helps prevent damage from humidity and temperature swings. For antiques, paper, and electronics, consider climate-controlled units.
Are there hidden fees in storage unit rentals?
Sometimes. Facilities can charge administrative fees, insurance, move-in fees, or late payment penalties. Read the rental agreement and ask for a fee breakdown.
How do I know what unit size I need?
Measure your items or list their dimensions. Compare to published unit dimensions. A 10×10 typically fits a furnished one-bedroom apartment; use that as a starting point.
Can location alone double storage costs?
Location differences can be large. In some markets, metro rates run 20–50% above suburban or rural rates, depending on demand and space constraints (Yardi Matrix 2023).