Table of Contents
- At a Glance: Best Storage Units for Apartments
- Why Consider an Apartment Storage Unit?
- What Factors Influence the Ideal Storage Unit Size?
- Storage Unit Sizes Explained
- Apartment Storage Unit Considerations: Climate, Access & Security
- Vehicle Storage and Outdoor Parking for Apartment Residents
- Apartment Storage Unit Cost & Budget Tips
- Quick Step-by-Step: Choosing Your Apartment Storage Unit
- Ready to Reclaim Space in Your Apartment?
- FAQs
Apartment living offers numerous advantages, including prime locations, cozy layouts, vibrant communities, and affordability. But let’s be honest: storage space isn’t one of them. From holiday decorations to bulky furniture, your belongings can quickly overwhelm your living space. The solution? Finding extra space with an apartment storage unit.
At a Glance: Best Storage Units for Apartments
Studio apartment (light clutter): 5x5 or 5x10 storage unit
1-bedroom apartment (standard furniture + boxes): 5x15 or 10x10 storage unit
2-bedroom apartment (full contents): 10x15 storage unit
2–3 bedroom apartment (full contents + extras): 10x20 storage unit
This guide will help you choose the perfect storage size, ensuring you’re not overpaying for space you don’t need or cramming everything into a tight space.
Why Consider an Apartment Storage Unit?
The Problem: Limited Space in Your Apartment
Closets fill up. Boxes pile high. You start tripping over bikes, seasonal bins, or furniture that just doesn’t fit. Suddenly, your home feels more like a warehouse than a sanctuary.
The Solution? External Storage
A storage unit is like an extra room you rent. Move nonessential items out of your apartment and free up your space, without paying for a bigger lease.
Do I Really Need a Storage Unit if I Live in an Apartment?
Yes, an extra storage solution will help if you’re short on space or rotating items seasonally. They’re also great if you do not have vehicle storage at your complex! Even a small storage option, such as a 5x5, can hold off-season clothing, sports gear, or boxes that would otherwise clutter your living room.
What Factors Influence the Ideal Storage Unit Size?
When selecting an apartment storage unit, begin by determining the number and type of items you’ll be storing. And then consider your access requirements. Identifying this ahead of time will ensure you have plenty of space.
Quantity of Items
Just a few boxes of personal items? → smaller unit.
Entire apartment move → medium or large unit.
Types of Items
Small & medium-sized boxes stack easily → smaller unit.
Furniture, mattresses, and appliances eat up floor space fast. → medium or large unit.
Vehicle, motorcycle, or boat? → large or extra-large unit.
Need for Access
- Frequent Visits? Choose a slightly larger unit for aisle space or drive-up storage unit.
Long-term storage? Pack tighter in a smaller space.
Remember, ceilings are usually tall in storage units (approximately 8 feet+). By stacking boxes vertically, you can choose a smaller unit.
Storage Unit Sizes Explained
Choosing the right storage unit can be challenging if you don’t have a clear understanding of the square feet, comparable sizes, and what the unit is best suited for. Here are the most common storage unit sizes at a glance.
Small Storage Units (5x5 - 5x10)
| Unit Size | Equivalent Space | Best For |
| 5x5 | Small closet | Boxes, small furniture, seasonal decorations, sports equipment |
| 5x10 | Walk-in closet | Studio apartment contents: mattress, dresser, appliances, boxes |
Medium Storage Units (5x15 - 10x10)
| Unit Size | Equivalent Space | Best For |
| 5x15 | Large walk-in closet, small bedroom | One-bedroom apartment: appliances, sofa, chairs, mattress set, moving boxes, bikes |
| 10x10 | Standard bedroom | 1-2 bedroom apartments: two rooms of furniture, dining set or kitchen table, appliances |
Large Storage Units (10x15 - 10x20)
| Unit Size | Equivalent Space | Best For |
| 10x15 | Large bedroom | Living & dining room sets, bedroom furniture, appliances (washer & dryer), boxes |
| 10x20 | One-car garage | 2-3 bedroom apartment: full household contents and personal items, outdoor equipment, patio furniture, small vehicles |
If you need more assistance comparing self-storage unit sizes for your apartment, use our Storage Unit Size Guide.
FAQ: What Size Storage Unit is Best for a 1-Bedroom Apartment?
A 5x15 or 10x10 storage unit will provide ample space. It fits a mattress set, dresser, sofa, dining table, appliances, and boxes.
Apartment Storage Unit Considerations: Climate, Access & Security
There are other factors to consider when selecting the right storage unit for your apartment. A few things to think about?
Climate Control
When To Choose It:
- Storing wood and leather furniture, electronics, artwork, or clothing.
- Living in an area with extreme heat, cold, or humidity.
When You Can Skip It:
- Storing tools, plastic bins, outdoor gear, patio furniture, or short-term items.
Access & Convenient
- Location: Storage locations near you will mean shorter trips.
- Hours: Do you need 24/7 access or standard hours, such as 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM?
- Drive-Up Storage Units: Easily load and unload directly from your car. A necessity if you need vehicle storage.
Business Storage Needs
If you're working from home, you should consider whether you need storage for business inventory or other office supplies. If you're running a small service-based business out of your apartment, such as painting or landscaping, you may need a large unit, such as a 10x30 storage unit
Security
Self-storage facility security features to look for include:
- Gated entry with keypad access
- 24/7 video surveillance
- On-site management
- Well-lit grounds
- Tenant Protection Plans
For more storage tips on selecting the right unit and facility, visit the Storage Star Blog.
FAQ: Are Climate-Controlled Storage Units Worth the Cost?
Yes, if you're storing sensitive items, such as furniture, electronics, and documents. For plastic totes, tools, or short-term storage, you may not need it.
Vehicle Storage and Outdoor Parking for Apartment Residents
If your apartment complex doesn't offer garage space or has limited parking, a storage facility can be a suitable solution. This will help you find a place to store your outdoor gear, vehicles, and other belongings.
Why Consider Vehicle Storage?
- Cars and Trucks: A 10x20 unit (one-car garage equivalent) can protect your vehicle from weather or theft.
- Motorcycles or Scooters: Even a 5x10 works for one or two bikes, with room for helmets and gear.
- Bicycles: If your apartment lacks a bike room or bike rack, a 5x5 unit will keep them safe and out of your living room or entryway.
- Seasonal Vehicles: Store boats, jet skis, or ATVs when not in use. Without a garage at your apartment complex, you'll be unable to store them on-site.
FAQ: Can I Store a Vehicle in an Apartment Storage Unit?
Yes! Many facilities offer drive-up units or designated vehicle storage options. Always confirm requirements, such as proof of registration and insurance.
Apartment Storage Unit Cost & Budget Tips
Storage units are an additional monthly cost that you'll need to think about; however, the cost of a self-storage unit is less expensive that moving into a larger apartment. You'll get extra space at a better price!
Before you rent a storage unit:
- Compare Facilities: Prices can vary widely.
- Check Promotions: Many storage facilities offer "First Month Rent Only $1" or "50% Off 3 Months"
- Check Web Rates: Many storage facilities offer discounted rates if you rent or reserve your unit online.
- Ask About Fees: There may be additional one-time or monthly fees, including an admin fee, insurance, or late fees.
Quick Step-by-Step: Choosing Your Apartment Storage Unit
Here's a quick list of the five steps you want to take when selecting your self-storage unit:
Inventory your items. List furniture, boxes, and appliances.
Declutter first. Don’t pay to store what you don’t need.
Estimate size. Use online calculators, but lean slightly larger if unsure.
Visit facilities. Seeing units in person helps.
Talk to managers. Share your inventory; they can recommend the right fit.
FAQ: What if I Pick the Wrong Size?
If your unit is too small, you’ll have to upgrade (which can be inconvenient, but is possible). Too large, and you’ll overpay. When in doubt, opt for the slightly larger option for added flexibility.
Ready to Reclaim Space in Your Apartment?
By selecting the right unit size — and considering climate control, accessibility, and security — you can transform your cluttered apartment into a calm and organized home.
Storage Star offers affordable, secure units nationwide, ranging from small storage lockers (3x3s!) to large 10x20s (and bigger!). Whether you need short-term storage during a move or long-term organization, you can find the perfect unit near you.
Find a Storage Star location near you and start reclaiming your apartment space today.
FAQs
What size storage unit is best for a studio apartment?
A 5x5 or 5x10 unit is usually ideal for a studio. These sizes fit boxes, a mattress set, dresser, small appliances, or a sofa, depending on how much you have.
How much storage do I need for a 1-bedroom apartment?
Most 1-bedroom apartments fit well in a 5x15 or 10x10 storage unit. These units hold bedroom furniture, a sofa, dining table, appliances, and moving boxes.
Can I store my car or motorcycle in a storage unit?
Yes. Many storage facilities allow vehicle storage. A 10x20 unit can fit most cars, while a 5x10 can handle one or two motorcycles with room for gear. Always check registration and insurance requirements.
Do I need a climate-controlled storage unit for my apartment items?
Climate control is recommended if you’re storing wood or leather furniture, electronics, clothing, artwork, or anything sensitive to heat, cold, or humidity. For plastic totes, tools, or short-term storage, it’s usually not necessary.
How much does an apartment storage unit cost?
Prices vary by location, size, and amenities. Many facilities run promotions like $1 for the first month or 50% off the first three months. Expect to pay less than the cost of upgrading to a larger apartment.
What happens if I rent the wrong size unit?
If your unit is too small, you can usually upgrade to a larger one. Too big, and you’ll overpay for unused space. When in doubt, choose the slightly larger size for flexibility.
