A self storage unit costs about $50 to $280 per month in 2026, depending mostly on size and location. The most popular size, a 10×10, averages around $120 a month for a standard unit and $145 to $155 with climate control. Use the calculator below to estimate your monthly cost and the total for your stay, including fees and move-in specials.
Take our 60-second storage unit size quiz first, then plug your size into the calculator.
Self Storage Cost Calculator
Estimate your storage unit cost with 2026 rates
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Estimate based on 2026 national averages. Online rates and move-in specials vary by facility, and many facilities raise rates after the first few months.
Storage Unit Prices by Size in 2026
Bigger units cost more each month, but less per square foot. That’s why a 10×20 costs well under twice the price of a 10×10. These are typical national monthly rates for a suburban or mid-size market:
| Unit size | What fits | Standard | Climate controlled |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5×5 | Boxes, seasonal decor, a small closet’s worth | $40 – $65 | $50 – $80 |
| 5×10 | Dorm room or studio apartment | $60 – $95 | $75 – $120 |
| 10×10 | 1-bedroom apartment | $95 – $155 | $120 – $195 |
| 10×15 | 2-bedroom apartment or home | $130 – $210 | $160 – $260 |
| 10×20 | 3-bedroom home, or a car | $165 – $265 | $205 – $335 |
| 10×30 | 4+ bedroom home | $225 – $365 | $280 – $455 |
Not sure which size you need? Pack smart and you can often fit into one size smaller. Stand mattresses and tables on end, stack boxes to the ceiling, and use the space inside dressers and appliances. Storing a vehicle instead? See our car, boat, and RV storage calculators.
What Affects the Cost of a Storage Unit
Location
Where you rent matters about as much as unit size. The same 10×10 that costs under $90 in a lower-cost metro like Atlanta can run $200 or more in Los Angeles or San Francisco. Facilities in dense city centers charge the most, so driving 15 to 20 minutes out to the suburbs can save a meaningful amount every month.
Climate control
Climate-controlled units typically cost 15% to 30% more than standard units of the same size. They’re worth it for wood furniture, electronics, documents, photos, musical instruments, and anything stored long term in hot, humid, or freezing climates. For tools, patio furniture, and plastic bins, a standard unit is usually fine.
Access and unit placement
Drive-up units, where you can back your vehicle right up to the door, and ground-floor units near the elevator cost more because they save time and effort on moving day. Upper-floor interior units are usually the cheapest option in a given size. Facilities with 24-hour access, gated entry, cameras, and on-site managers often charge a premium, too.
Time of year
Demand peaks in late spring and summer, when families move between school years and college students need a place for their things. Fall and winter usually bring lower rates and better move-in specials.
Fees, insurance, and rate increases
Beyond the monthly rent, budget for a one-time admin fee (typically $20 to $30), a lock if you don’t have a disc lock, and a protection plan or insurance, usually $9 to $25 a month. Many facilities require coverage, although your homeowners or renters policy may already cover stored belongings. Also ask how often the facility raises rates. It is common for a low introductory rate to rise after the first several months.
How to Save on Self Storage
- Compare facilities side by side. Prices for the same size can vary widely within a few miles. Compare storage units near you to see rates and specials in one place.
- Look for move-in specials. Many facilities offer a first month for $1 or 50% off, especially for online reservations. Public Storage frequently runs first-month deals.
- Rent the right size. Pack efficiently and measure your largest items so you don’t pay for empty space.
- Skip features you don’t need. An upper-floor interior unit or a standard unit instead of climate control can cut your rent by 10% to 30%.
- Ask about discounts. Military, student, senior, and prepay discounts are common, and new facilities often price aggressively to fill up.
- Revisit your rate. If your rent has crept up after a year or two, ask for a lower rate or compare what new customers are paying nearby.
Moving, Too? Consider a Portable Storage Container
If you’re storing belongings during a move, a portable container can save you from loading and unloading twice. It’s delivered to your door, stored at a secure facility, and then delivered to your new home. Use code WEBSAVE6 to save 10% with PODS, see all current PODS promo codes, or estimate costs with our PODS cost calculator.
Self Storage Cost FAQ
How much is a 10×10 storage unit?
A standard 10×10 unit averages about $120 per month nationally in 2026, typically $95 to $155 in suburban markets. Climate control adds 15% to 30%, and major metros can run $200 or more.
What is the cheapest storage unit size?
A 5×5 unit is the smallest and cheapest common size, usually $40 to $65 a month. Larger units cost more in total but less per square foot.
Is climate-controlled storage worth it?
For wood furniture, electronics, documents, photos, and anything stored long term in hot or humid climates, usually yes. For tools, bins, and outdoor gear, a standard unit is typically enough.
Are there extra fees when renting a storage unit?
Most facilities charge a one-time admin fee of about $20 to $30 and require a protection plan or proof of insurance, often $9 to $25 a month. You may also need to buy a lock.
When is the cheapest time to rent a storage unit?
Fall and winter are usually cheapest because demand drops after the summer moving season, and facilities are more likely to offer move-in specials.
How much do you pay for self storage?
Is the estimate on this page close to what you pay? Higher? Lower? Tell us your unit size, city, and monthly rate in the comments below. It helps other readers and helps us keep this calculator accurate.
Easy Storage Search may earn a commission when you use links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Prices are 2026 national averages and vary by location, facility, and season.