Storage prices have climbed steadily over the past several years — and knowing the going rate before you walk into a facility puts you in a much stronger position. Knowing the average means you'll recognize a real deal versus marketing language, and you'll know when to push back.
Average Monthly Rates by Unit Size (2026)
These are national averages across US markets. Prices vary significantly by region — see the breakdown below.
| Unit Size | Budget Markets | Mid-Range | Premium Markets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5×5 | $30–$50 | $50–$80 | $80–$130 |
| 5×10 | $50–$80 | $80–$120 | $120–$180 |
| 10×10 | $80–$120 | $120–$160 | $160–$250 |
| 10×15 | $100–$150 | $150–$200 | $200–$320 |
| 10×20 | $130–$180 | $180–$250 | $250–$400 |
| 10×30 | $180–$250 | $250–$350 | $350–$500+ |
Climate-controlled units add roughly 25–50% to these figures.
What Makes Storage More Expensive?
Location
Urban markets — New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Toronto, Vancouver — run 2–3× the national average. Suburban facilities 20–30 minutes outside the city are often 30–50% cheaper with comparable quality and security.
Climate Control
The single biggest price driver after location. Temperature and humidity regulation costs the facility money — that cost is passed to you as a 25–50% premium over a comparable standard unit.
Floor Level and Access Type
Ground-floor drive-up units are the most convenient and command the highest prices. Upper-floor interior units (elevator access only) are typically 10–20% cheaper for the same square footage.
Facility Age and Amenities
New facilities with gated entry, 24-hour access, and HD security cameras cost more than older, simpler properties. Whether the premium is worth it depends on what you're storing and how often you need access.
Promotions Worth Looking For
- First month free — Common at facilities with vacancies. Effectively an 8% discount on a 12-month rental.
- Web-only rates — Many facilities list lower prices online than at the front desk. Always compare online before visiting.
- No admin fee — Some facilities charge a $20–$50 administrative or move-in fee. Many waive it entirely — it's worth asking.
- Prepay discounts — Paying 3–6 months upfront often unlocks a 10–20% rate reduction.
How to Get the Best Price
- Compare first, call second. Use StorageAtlas to see real monthly rates at every facility in your city side by side — no phone calls, no sales pressure.
- Look one zip code outside the city centre. Facilities 15–20 minutes from downtown are routinely 20–35% cheaper for the same unit.
- Consider drive-up vs. interior units. If you're not moving in and out weekly, an interior unit will save you $20–$40/month.
- Be cautious with national chains. Public Storage, Extra Space, and CubeSmart often run 20–30% above local operators for comparable units. Their brand recognition doesn't mean better security.
Regional Price Snapshot
Approximate 10×10 monthly rates by metro area:
- New York City, NY — $200–$350+
- Los Angeles, CA — $160–$280
- Chicago, IL — $100–$180
- Houston, TX — $80–$140
- Phoenix, AZ — $85–$145
- Atlanta, GA — $85–$145
- Midwest / Rural US — $60–$110
- Toronto, ON — $160–$260 CAD
- Vancouver, BC — $200–$350 CAD