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Storage units aren't one-size-fits-all, and neither are their prices. Whether you're clearing out a garage, moving across town, or just need somewhere to stash your old furniture, the cost of a storage unit can swing wildly depending on where you live, what size you need, and what kind of protection you're after.
The good news? Once you know what actually drives the price, finding a great deal gets a whole lot easier. Let's break down what you can expect to pay, and how to make sure you're not paying more than you should.
How Much Is a Storage Unit Per Month?
Storage prices depend on factors like location, availability, and features (climate control, drive-up access, and so on). Here’s a high-level look at average self-storage prices by storage unit size:
Average monthly cost: $70–$300+
Small storage units (5x5–5x10 square feet): $60–$80/month
Medium units (5x15–10x15 square feet): $120–$170/month
Large units (10x20–10x30 square feet): $210–$300+/month
National average price for a 10x10 unit: ~$180/month
Climate-controlled storage unit: Higher monthly fees than standard units
Vehicle & boat storage space: $100–$250+/month
Note: These are estimated national averages. Storage unit prices in this article are updated annually. All prices are for reference only and are subject to change without notice. Find a Storage Star near you for current pricing.
What Factors Affect the Cost of a Storage Unit?
Storage unit pricing is influenced by:
Storage unit size: Larger units cost more than smaller units, but offer more square footage for big moves or long-term storage.
Location: Self-storage facilities in high-demand or metro areas have higher average costs.
Climate-control: Expect to pay slightly more for units that maintain temperature and humidity for sensitive items.
Drive-up access: Convenient for loading, may increase your monthly cost.
Seasonal demand: Self-storage prices typically rise in summer and fall during peak moving and decluttering seasons.
Availability: Facilities with few open units may charge higher monthly rent.
Discounts & promotions: Storage Star self-storage facilities offer online specials or “first month free” deals. Find a Storage Star near you to ask about discounts and deals.
Fees to Expect On Your Monthly Bill
We’re all about being upfront and honest with our storage rental customers. We want you to know all of the fees that may appear on your bill so there are no surprises.
One-time administrative fees: $10–$25 setup charge
Insurance: Required by most self-storage facilities, typically $10–$25/month
Taxes: Vary by region
Late fees: Apply if you miss your monthly rent payment
Talk to your local Storage Star facility to ask about insurance, taxes, and fees, along with the facility’s active discounts and deals.
How Much Do Storage Units Cost by Size (August 2026)
Generally, the larger a storage unit is, the higher its cost will be. The average monthly price for some of the most popular storage unit sizes nationwide:
Storage Unit Size | Standard Indoor Unit | Drive-Up Access | Climate- | Good For |
$30-$60 | $50-70 | $65-$90 | About the size of a walk-in closet — fits seasonal decor, small boxes, tools, or a few pieces of small furniture | |
$60-$100 | $80-$110 | $100-$140 | About the size of a small storage shed — fits a mattress set, small appliances, sporting goods, and several boxes | |
$90-$140 | $120-$160 | $150-$210 | About the size of a small bedroom — fits 1-2 bedrooms' worth of furniture, mid-sized appliances, or business inventory | |
$150-$200 | $160-$210 | $200-$260 | Considered a standard-sized secondary bedroom — fits larger furniture, appliances, ATVs, small PWCs, or mixed household storage | |
$180-$250 | $200-$270 | $250-$340 | About the size of a one-car garage — fits a vehicle, large business inventory, or the contents of a full household move | |
$270-$350 | $300-$400 | $380-$500 | About the size of a one-and-a-half car garage — fits full house contents, commercial inventory, or multiple vehicles | |
20x20 | $350-$600 | $400-$550 | $350-$525 | About the size of a two-car garage — fits full house contents for a large home, including multiple rooms of furniture |
Not sure what size storage unit to choose? Use our storage unit size guide to help you decide, or call a storage facility near you to discuss your needs.
Average Outdoor Parking Storage Cost
If you just need a secure spot to park a vehicle, trailer, or ATV without paying for a fully enclosed unit, outdoor parking is typically the most budget-friendly option. Pricing depends on whether the space is covered or uncovered, and how big of a parking space you need:
Parking Type | Monthly Cost | Good For |
Uncovered Parking | $45-$100 | Daily drivers, small trailers, ATVs |
Covered Parking | $100-$200 | Vehicles needing weather protection without full enclosure |
How Much Do Storage Units Cost by U.S. City?
How much is a storage unit near you? That also depends on where you live! Self-storage prices also vary by city and season. Prices tend to be a bit higher in major cities.
At Storage Star, we offer special promotions and discounts for online rentals. Check out the current monthly rates below for some of our popular locations, so you can budget smart for 2026 and compare before you rent:
Location | Small Units (e.g. 5×5–5×10) | Medium Units (10×10–10×15) | Large Units (10×20+) | Facility |
$33-$88 | $123-$153 | $270-$288 | ||
$45-$75 | $165-$200 | $395-$403 | ||
$45-$73 | $130-$173 | $181-$267 | ||
$40-97 | $103-$147 | $183-$367 | ||
$62-$68 | $75-$95 | $132-$178 | ||
~$100 | $195-$218 | $245-253+ | ||
$80-$107 | $107-$207 | $270-$408 | ||
Roy, UT | $43-73 | $167-$185 | $217-$230 |
Don’t see your city listed here? Find a Storage Star near you for current pricing and availability.
Average Storage Unit Cost by Type of Unit
While how you use one of our storage units doesn’t impact your monthly fees, you may be able to secure a discount or special deal. Some locations may offer student discounts, deals on bulk rentals for businesses, and more!
How Much Does Business Storage Cost?
Business owners love Storage Star for our flexible leases and a range of unit sizes—perfect for extra inventory, documents, equipment, or even overflow furniture. Monthly costs typically range from $60 for a small storage unit up to $300+ for larger spaces or climate-controlled units. We also offer covered parking spaces for commercial trucks and trailers. Drive-up access is available for busy teams that need fast, convenient access.
How Much Does Student Storage Cost?
Student storage at Storage Star is designed for flexibility and affordability—great for summer breaks, semester abroad, or off-campus transitions. Most students need smaller units (5x5 or 5x10), with monthly costs ranging from just $30 to $70, depending on location, size, and whether you need climate control for electronics or sensitive items. Besides the affordable monthly storage fees, we operate on a month-to-month basis. So if things change, you can pack up and haul out with ease.
How Much Does Vehicle Storage Cost?
Storage Star offers secure, gated storage units for cars, motorcycles, RVs, and ATVs, with both outdoor parking and enclosed spaces available. Vehicle storage monthly rent typically starts around $75 for small vehicles, with large RV storage reaching $250+ per month, especially for enclosed, climate-controlled, or premium-access spots. Find a Storage Star near you to view our storage unit prices.
How Much Does Boat Storage Cost?
Storing a boat at Storage Star typically costs between $100 and $300 per month, depending on the size of your boat, the type of storage (outdoor, covered, or enclosed), and your location. You may be able to rent a smaller unit to store jet skis, canoes, and kayaks. Outdoor parking is the most affordable option, while enclosed storage units offer the most protection at a higher monthly cost. Always check with your local Storage Star facility for exact rates and availability.
How Much Does Drive-Up Storage Cost?
Drive-up access at Storage Star lets you roll right to your unit—ideal for heavy furniture, business deliveries, or quick loading and unloading. Drive-up units are available in most sizes, with monthly rent typically starting at $40 for smaller units and reaching $200 or more for large units, depending on local demand. Find the storage facility closest to you to check out storage prices.
How Much Does Climate-Controlled Storage Cost?
Climate-controlled storage at Storage Star provides extra protection for electronics, artwork, antiques, and anything sensitive to heat or humidity. Expect to pay slightly more for a temperature-controlled unit than standard units. Monthly fees start around $60 for a small climate-controlled unit, while large climate-controlled units can go above $200—especially in peak seasons or metro areas. Find the storage facility closest to you to check out monthly specials.
How to Save on Your Self-Storage Unit
Compare storage unit size and pricing across multiple self-storage facilities.
Reserve online to take advantage of lower self-storage prices and deals.
Watch for specials like “first month free” or discounted monthly rent.
Select the right size storage unit to avoid paying for unnecessary square footage.
Ask about referral, student, or military discounts.
The Bottom Line: Understanding Storage Unit Costs
The average price for a self-storage unit in 2025 ranges from about $70 to $300 per month, but the actual monthly cost depends on the size of the storage unit, location, type of storage, and any additional fees. To find the best deal, inquire about current specials and select the storage unit size that best suits your needs.
Ready to reclaim your space? Rent or reserve a storage unit online and lock in the best monthly cost today!
FAQs
How much is a storage unit per month?
Storage unit prices typically range from $30 to $600+ per month depending on size, location, and features like climate control or drive-up access. Most renters pay between $70 and $300 per month. Smaller units like a 5x5 start as low as $30/month, while large units like a 20x20 can run $600 or more in high-demand areas.
What's the average cost of a storage unit?
Nationally, storage units average around $70 to $300+ per month, depending on size, location, and features like climate control or drive-up access. A small 5x5 unit can run as low as $30/month, while a large 20x20 unit can cost $600 or more in high-demand markets.
What size storage unit is the cheapest to rent?
A 3x3 or a 5x5 unit are typically the most affordable options, starting around $20-$30 per month for standard indoor access.
Do storage unit prices increase over time?
Yes, it's common for storage facilities to raise rates after your first few months, especially once an introductory or online-only rate expires. Ask your local Storage Star facility about rate lock options or long-term discounts if predictable pricing matters to you.
Is climate-controlled storage more expensive than a standard unit?
Yes. On average, it’s about 17% more expensive to rent a temperature-controlled unit than a non-climate-controlled one. Depending on the location closest to you, you may find specials that bring the monthly price down. Check online or call your local Storage Star to ask about discounts and monthly fees.
Learn what climate-controlled storage is and why it typically costs more.
Do drive-up units cost more than a unit with hallway access?
Yes, drive-up units typically cost more than standard indoor units with hallway access. The added convenience of pulling your vehicle right up to your unit is treated as a premium feature, so you'll usually pay a bit more for it than for a comparable standard indoor unit. That said, availability and location still have the biggest overall impact on your final price.
Are vehicle storage units more expensive than standard, large units?
That depends on the type of unit you need. If you need straightforward storage for your ATV, consider a covered outdoor parking unit, which is typically more cost-effective than an indoor unit. If you need climate-controlled storage for your collectible car, or you’d just like a safer storage option for your RV, then you’ll want to choose a large indoor unit.
Are short-term rentals more expensive than long-term rentals?
Not at all. We operate on a month-to-month basis, so you’re never locked into a long-term contract unless you want to be! You may be able to lock in a better rate the longer you sign up, so ask your local facility about specials.
