The top 5 self storage companies in 2026: Extra Space Storage, Public Storage, U-Haul, CubeSmart and StorageMart.
The self storage industry has consolidated fast. Uncle Bob’s became Life Storage and then part of Extra Space, U-Store-It became CubeSmart, and the biggest chains now control a large share of the market. Here’s how today’s top companies compare, and why the best deal near you may not be a big brand at all.
Compare Storage Prices Near YouThe Top Self Storage Companies at a Glance
| Company | Approx. U.S. locations | Coverage | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extra Space Storage | 4,000+ | 43 states + D.C. | Overall availability |
| Public Storage | ~3,500 | About 40 states | Promotions, big-city coverage |
| U-Haul | ~2,000 company-owned | All 50 states | Movers, truck bundles |
| CubeSmart | ~1,500 | About 40 states | App and tech features |
| StorageMart | 250+ | U.S., Canada and U.K. | Climate-controlled storage |
Location counts are approximate and change as companies buy and sell facilities.
The Top 5, Reviewed
1. Extra Space Storage
Best overall and most locations. Extra Space is now the largest self storage operator in the U.S., with more than 4,000 locations in 43 states and Washington, D.C. It absorbed Life Storage (formerly Uncle Bob’s) in 2023, and some facilities still carry the Life Storage and Storage Express names. Facilities are generally clean and well lit, and it offers climate-controlled, drive-up, vehicle, boat, RV and business storage.
- Most locations nationwide
- Strong online discounts
- Wide range of unit types
- Rent increases after move-in are common
- Prices vary widely by location
2. Public Storage
Best for promotions and big-city coverage. Public Storage is the most recognized name in self storage, with roughly 3,500 locations in about 40 states. It’s known for aggressive first-month promotions and heavy coverage in major metros. Its size means there’s often a location close to home.
- Huge network in major cities
- Frequent $1 or discounted first-month deals
- Online rental and contactless move-in
- Rates can climb after the promo period
- Fewer amenities at older facilities
Read our Public Storage review.
3. U-Haul
Best for movers and all-50-state coverage. U-Haul runs around 2,000 company-owned self storage sites and is the only major brand with storage in all 50 states. It’s the most convenient choice if you’re already renting a U-Haul truck or U-Box, and many locations let you bundle truck rental, storage and moving supplies.
- Locations in all 50 states
- Easy to bundle with truck rental
- Often competitively priced
- Quality varies a lot by location
- Some sites are dealer-run, not company-owned
4. CubeSmart
Best for app and tech features. CubeSmart operates around 1,500 facilities in about 40 states. Renters like its mobile app, which handles gate access, payments and autopay, and many facilities offer climate-controlled units, electronic gate access and vehicle storage.
- Well-reviewed mobile app
- Frequent move-in specials
- Many climate-controlled facilities
- Smaller network than the top three
- Pricing varies by market
5. StorageMart
Best for climate-controlled storage. StorageMart is the largest privately held storage company, with roughly 250+ locations in the U.S., Canada and the U.K., including Manhattan Mini Storage in New York. It was named the #1 climate-controlled storage chain in Reviewed’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards and is often cited for competitive monthly rates.
- Strong climate-controlled options
- Often lower monthly rates
- Highly rated by customers
- Far fewer locations
- Not available in many markets
Don’t Overlook Local Storage Facilities
Even after years of consolidation, most storage facilities in the U.S. are still owned by smaller regional companies and independent operators. They’re worth checking for three reasons: they often charge less, they’re less likely to use aggressive rent increases after you move in, and they may be closer to home than the nearest national brand. The catch is that they can be harder to compare, since their prices aren’t always online.
That’s where a comparison site helps. SpareFoot lists national chains and local facilities side by side, with live prices and specials, and lets you reserve free with no credit card.
How to Choose a Storage Company
- Location first. A convenient facility saves you time every visit. Distance usually matters more than brand.
- Price after promotions. Compare the regular monthly rate, admin fees and insurance requirements, not just the first month.
- Climate control. Pay for it if you’re storing furniture, electronics, documents or anything sensitive to heat and humidity.
- Security and access. Look for gated access, cameras, good lighting and access hours that fit your schedule.
- Reviews. Read recent reviews for the specific facility, not just the brand.
Unsure what size you need? Take our storage unit size quiz, or estimate costs with our self storage cost calculator. For more red flags to look for, see warning signs when choosing a storage unit.
Compare every facility near you
National chains and local facilities, with live prices and specials. Reserve free, pay at move-in.
Find Storage Near MeNeed storage while you move?
A portable container can be cheaper and easier than a unit. Save 10% on PODS with code WEBSAVE6.
See PODS Promo CodesFAQs
What is the largest self storage company?
Extra Space Storage, with more than 4,000 locations in the U.S. after acquiring Life Storage in 2023. Public Storage is second by location count but remains the best-known brand and the leader by revenue.
Which self storage company is cheapest?
It depends on your area. Prices vary more by location and current promotions than by brand. Comparing every facility near you, including smaller local operators, is the best way to find the lowest price.
What happened to Uncle Bob’s and Life Storage?
Uncle Bob’s Self Storage was renamed Life Storage, and Life Storage merged into Extra Space Storage in 2023. Many former Life Storage facilities are now branded Extra Space.
What happened to U-Store-It?
U-Store-It rebranded as CubeSmart in 2011.
Are big storage chains better than local facilities?
Not necessarily. National chains offer online booking, apps and consistent standards, while independent facilities often have lower prices and fewer rent increases. Compare both.
Pingback: Extra Space Storage Review (2026): Locations, Prices, Pros and Cons - Easy Storage Search
Pingback: Public Storage Review (2026): Prices, Promotions, Pros and Cons - Easy Storage Search
Pingback: Self Storage Auctions: How They Work, Where to Find Them and Tips (2026) - Easy Storage Search