Extra Space Storage review: the largest storage chain in the U.S., with clean facilities and a huge range of unit types. Watch for rent increases after move-in.
Extra Space has grown from a few hundred facilities to more than 4,000, largely by acquiring Life Storage (formerly Uncle Bob’s) in 2023. Here’s what to expect on locations, unit types, pricing and the trade-offs, plus how to make sure you’re getting the best rate.
Compare Extra Space and Nearby FacilitiesExtra Space at a Glance
| Founded | 1977, headquartered in Salt Lake City |
| Locations | 4,000+ in 43 states and Washington, D.C. |
| Brands | Extra Space Storage, Life Storage, Storage Express |
| Unit types | Climate-controlled, drive-up, indoor, lockers, business storage, and car, boat and RV parking |
| Booking | Online reservations and rentals; contactless move-in at many locations |
| Best for | Finding a well-kept facility close to home almost anywhere |
Our Verdict
Extra Space is our top overall pick among national storage chains. Its biggest advantage is reach: with more than 4,000 locations, there’s a good chance one is close to you. Facilities are generally clean, well lit and secure, and it offers nearly every kind of storage under one roof. Its biggest drawback, shared by most big chains, is that move-in specials often give way to rent increases after a few months. If you go in knowing that, Extra Space is a solid, convenient choice.
- Largest network in the U.S.
- Clean, well-lit, secure facilities
- Wide range of unit types, including vehicle storage
- Online booking and frequent web discounts
- Consistent standards across locations
- Rent increases after move-in are common
- Prices vary widely by location
- Fewer rural locations in some states
- Insurance or a protection plan may be required
Unit Types and Features
Climate-controlled units
Available at most locations. Worth it for furniture, electronics, documents and anything sensitive to heat or humidity.
Drive-up units
Pull up to the door to load and unload. Good for tools, bins and outdoor gear.
Vehicle storage
Outdoor, covered and enclosed parking for cars, boats and RVs at many locations.
Business storage
Space for inventory, records and equipment, with delivery acceptance at some sites.
Security
Typical features include gated, code-controlled access, video surveillance and on-site managers during office hours.
Online tools
Reserve and rent online, manage payments and autopay, and use contactless move-in where available.
Extra Space Pricing
Extra Space prices vary a lot by location, unit size, climate control and current promotions, so there’s no single national rate. As a rough guide, national averages for standard units run about $80 to $150 a month for a 10×10, and climate control typically adds 25% to 50%. Extra Space frequently offers online-only discounts and move-in specials, which can make the first few months a good deal.
See current prices for Extra Space and every other facility near you on SpareFoot, or estimate your costs with our self storage cost calculator.
Former Life Storage and Uncle Bob’s Customers
If you rented from Uncle Bob’s or Life Storage, your facility is now part of Extra Space. Uncle Bob’s was rebranded as Life Storage, and Extra Space completed its acquisition of Life Storage in 2023. Many facilities have been rebranded as Extra Space, while some still carry the Life Storage name. Your account, payments and access are now managed through Extra Space, so check your rental agreement and the Extra Space website or app for your current terms.
Extra Space vs. Other Chains
| Extra Space | Public Storage | CubeSmart | U-Haul | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Approx. locations | 4,000+ | ~3,500 | ~1,500 | ~2,000 company-owned |
| Known for | Reach and clean facilities | Promotions and big-city coverage | Mobile app and specials | Truck and storage bundles |
| Vehicle storage | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| All 50 states | No (43 + D.C.) | No | No | Yes |
See the full comparison in our top 5 self storage companies guide and our Public Storage review.
Tips for Renting From Extra Space
- Book online. Web rates and specials are often lower than walk-in prices.
- Compare nearby facilities. An independent facility down the street may be cheaper long-term.
- Check your insurance. Your homeowners or renters policy may already cover stored items, which can save you from buying a protection plan.
- Pick the right size. Use our storage unit size quiz so you don’t overpay for space.
- Know the access hours before you rent, especially if you’ll need your things early or late.
Compare Extra Space near you
See live prices and specials for Extra Space and every other facility nearby. Reserve free, pay at move-in.
Find Storage Near MeExtra Space FAQs
How many locations does Extra Space Storage have?
More than 4,000 in 43 states and Washington, D.C., making it the largest self storage operator in the U.S. by number of locations.
Is Life Storage now Extra Space?
Yes. Extra Space acquired Life Storage (formerly Uncle Bob’s Self Storage) in 2023. Most former Life Storage facilities now operate as Extra Space, and some still carry the Life Storage or Storage Express names.
Does Extra Space raise rent?
Like most large chains, Extra Space commonly raises rent after the first few months. Ask the facility how often rates change and by how much before you sign.
Does Extra Space offer climate-controlled units?
Yes, at most locations, along with drive-up units, lockers, and vehicle, boat and RV parking.
Is Extra Space the cheapest option?
Not always. Its online prices and move-in specials are competitive, but local independent facilities are sometimes cheaper. Compare every facility near you before you book.