The Complete Guide to Storage Unit Prices in 2026
Nov 24, 2025 / Public Storage
Self-storage prices vary based on where you live, the size of your unit, and the features you choose. This guide explains how Public Storage pricing works so you can estimate monthly costs, compare options, and find a unit that fits your budget. All rates shown here are examples and may change over time based on availability and local demand.
How Much Does a Storage Unit Cost at Public Storage?
Storage unit prices at Public Storage depend on several factors:
- Unit size (5×5, 5×10, 10×10, 10×15, 10×20, 10×30, and more)
- Standard vs. climate-controlled units (where available)
- Indoor vs. outdoor drive-up access
- Floor level and building layout
- Location and local demand
- Current promotions and online discounts
Across the country, a typical self-storage unit at Public Storage may cost about $31 to $115 per month, with smaller spaces at the lower end and large units with more features at the higher end.
Average Public Storage Prices by Unit Size
- 5×5: $47
- 5×10: $74
- 5×15: $112
- 10×10: $123
- 10×15: $176
- 10×20: $207
- 10×25: $249
- 10×30: $282
| Unit Size | Approx. Sq. Ft. | Standard Avg. Monthly Price | Climate-Controlled Avg. Monthly Price | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5×5 | 25 | $45 | $51 | Boxes, seasonal decor, small household items |
| 5×10 | 50 | $70 | $79 | Studio apartment items, small furniture |
| 5×15 | 75 | $111 | $118 | Narrow furniture, small bedroom contents, long items like lamps or shelving |
| 10×10 | 100 | $117 | $125 | Contents of 1–2 rooms or a small apartment |
| 10×15 | 150 | $157 | $171 | Contents of a 2- to 3-bedroom home |
| 10×20 | 200 | $203 | $235 | Larger household moves, small business inventory |
| 10×25 | 250 | $257 | $289 | Oversized home items, business inventory, long furniture |
| 10×30 | 300 | $295 | $348 | Multi-room homes, larger business storage needs |
Average Monthly Public Storage Prices by City
| City | 5×5 | 5×10 | 10×10 | 10×20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $87 | $123 | $210 | $383 |
| San Francisco | $83 | $123 | $224 | $398 |
| Las Vegas | $32 | $54 | $103 | $211 |
| Dallas–Fort Worth | $30 | $49 | $93 | $177 |
| Houston | $31 | $50 | $95 | $165 |
| Chicago | $49 | $73 | $128 | $224 |
| Atlanta | $32 | $48 | $89 | $166 |
| New York | $60 | $97 | $183 | $339 |
| Orlando–Daytona | $45 | $70 | $120 | $197 |
What Affects Public Storage Unit Prices?
Location
Units in busy metro areas, coastal cities, or neighborhoods with limited space often cost more than units in smaller towns or suburban areas. Even within the same city, rates can vary from one neighborhood to another based on demand.
Unit Size and Layout
Larger units cost more than smaller ones, and specialty layouts (tall ceilings, extra-wide doors, or unique configurations) can influence rates.
Features and Amenities
Features vary by facility and may include:
- Climate-controlled units designed to help moderate temperature and humidity
- Indoor units vs. outdoor drive-up units
- 24/7 Access
- Vehicle parking spaces for cars, boats, or RVs
Each added feature can influence the monthly rate, but it may help you organize or declutter more efficiently.
Promotions and Online Discounts
At many locations, online rates and move-in promotions can help lower the initial cost. Examples may include:
- Introductory discounts for your first month’s rent
Promotions change over time and may vary by location.
Storage Solutions for Different Needs
People use self-storage for many different purposes, and the right unit often depends on how long you plan to store items and how often you’ll visit. Because every Public Storage location offers its own mix of sizes, layouts, and features, customers can choose a space that fits their day-to-day routine or upcoming plans.
Common uses include:
• Business storage: Many small businesses and independent contractors use self-storage as an extension of their workspace. Units can help organize inventory, tools, supplies, samples, or seasonal equipment without the need for additional office or commercial space. Drive-up units and extended access hours at many locations can also make it easier to load or unload between jobs.
• College and university storage: Students often need a place to keep belongings during summer break, study-abroad programs, or short-term housing transitions. A small unit can simplify the shift between dorms, apartments, or shared housing by keeping everything in one place until the next semester begins.
• Moving and life changes: Self-storage is a flexible option during moves, renovations, and reorganizing projects. Whether you’re preparing a home for sale, settling into a new space, or arranging rooms one step at a time, extra room can help you stay organized and keep pathways clear while you pack or rearrange items.
• Military storage: Frequent relocations, trainings, or temporary assignments can create gaps between homes or require extra space during transitions. A self-storage unit can offer a consistent place to keep belongings during moves or periods when housing arrangements change. With a variety of sizes available across many locations, customers can choose a unit that aligns with their timelines and storage needs.
• Long-term planning: Some customers choose a unit for items they want to set aside for longer periods, keep in reserve, or revisit seasonally. Having a consistent space outside the home can make larger organizational projects more manageable and free up room inside closets, garages, or spare rooms.
Across all these situations, customers can select the size and features that match their plans—whether that’s a compact 5×5 unit for a brief period or a larger unit for ongoing projects, business use, or a home transition that unfolds over several months. Each facility offers different options, making it easy to compare locations and choose a space that aligns with your storage goals.
Climate-Controlled Storage Pricing
Climate-controlled units typically cost more than standard indoor spaces, and pricing can vary widely depending on the metro area, demand, and unit size. On average, climate-controlled units at Public Storage range between $114 and $292 per month, with smaller units landing at the lower end of the range and larger units with added features trending higher.
Across major metro markets, the cost of climate-controlled storage spans a wide spectrum. Minimum monthly rates can be as low as $12–$21 in cities like Atlanta or Orlando–Daytona, while maximum rates can reach $527–$844 in higher-demand metros such as Chicago and Los Angeles. These ranges reflect a broad mix of unit sizes, from compact 5×5 spaces to large units designed for multi-room homes or business storage needs.
Climate control availability and pricing vary by location, but many customers choose this option when storing items long-term or when they want additional protection from seasonal temperature swings.
Climate-Controlled Storage Price Range by City
| City | Min Monthly Price | Max Monthly Price |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | $12 | $577 |
| Chicago | $14 | $527 |
| Houston | $20 | $535 |
| Las Vegas | $18 | $386 |
| Los Angeles | $49 | $844 |
| Orlando–Daytona | $21 | $709 |
Price Per Square Foot (Standard vs. Climate-Controlled)
Price per square foot is one of the easiest ways to compare the value of different storage unit sizes. Across the most common Public Storage sizes, standard units average slightly lower on a per-square-foot basis, while climate-controlled spaces trend a bit higher due to added features that help moderate temperature and humidity.
Average Price per Square Foot (Standard vs. Climate-Controlled)
| Unit Size | Standard Price/Sq. Ft. | Climate-Controlled Price/Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| 5×5 | $1.67 | $1.89 |
| 5×10 | $1.35 | $1.52 |
| 10×10 | $1.11 | $1.19 |
| 10×15 | $1.02 | $1.11 |
| 10×20 | $0.97 | $1.12 |
| 10×25 | $1.00 | $1.12 |
| 10×30 | $0.94 | $1.10 |
Vehicle Storage
Vehicle storage costs vary based on whether you choose uncovered, covered, or indoor options at participating locations. Average monthly pricing generally ranges from $20 to $567, reflecting different space sizes and availability across cities.
Finding the right spot to keep a vehicle between drives can depend on more than just the size of the space you choose. Different cities offer different types of parking options, from outdoor spots to enclosed units at select locations, and that variety plays a major role in monthly pricing. In some markets, wide-open layouts create more flexibility and lower starting rates, while denser urban areas tend to see higher prices and a broader range across available parking spaces.
The breakdown below highlights typical minimum and maximum monthly costs in several major metro areas, giving you a clearer sense of what’s common in each region. If you’re comparing options or planning ahead, this snapshot can help you see how local pricing trends shift from city to city.
Vehicle Parking Price Range by City
| City | Min Price | Max Price |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | $38 | $248 |
| Chicago | $38 | $241 |
| Houston | $55 | $286 |
| Los Angeles | $55 | $549 |
| Miami | $50 | $345 |
| Orlando–Daytona | $58 | $246 |
Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage
Indoor vehicle storage offers a fully enclosed space, making it a good option for storing cars, small trucks, or recreational gear when you prefer a unit you can lock. Uncovered outdoor parking tends to be the most affordable choice, while covered options provide partial overhead protection and can be a helpful middle ground. Prices vary by location, but across common vehicle-sized spaces, indoor storage averages higher due to the additional structure and flexibility it provides.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Vehicle Storage Comparison
Average Vehicle Storage Prices by Type and Size
| Unit / Space Size | Indoor | Uncovered | Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10×15 | $195 | $70 | $84 |
| 10×20 | $232 | $83 | $102 |
| 10×25 | $267 | $96 | $112 |
| 10×30 | $335 | $126 | $145 |
Drive-Up Storage Pricing
Drive-up units offer ground-level access and a wide range of price points depending on size and location. Across major markets, average monthly rates typically fall between $44 and $323, with smaller units at the lower end and larger spaces or high-demand areas trending higher.
Choosing the Right Storage Unit for Your Budget
Finding a storage unit that fits your budget starts with understanding what you plan to store and how you plan to use the space. A little planning upfront can help you avoid paying for more room than you need—or outgrowing a unit sooner than expected. Whether you’re putting away seasonal items, organizing a home project, or setting aside business supplies, these steps can guide you toward a unit that aligns with both your needs and your monthly budget.
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Take inventory.
Start by listing everything you plan to store. Include furniture, boxes, seasonal items, sports gear, business inventory, or anything you expect to pack away for a while. The clearer the list, the easier it becomes to choose a unit that fits your belongings without paying for unused space. -
Estimate your size.
Once you know what you’re storing, use a storage size guide or online estimator to compare your list to common unit sizes. If you’re unsure, many customers appreciate having a bit of extra room for a walkway, organizing shelves, or items they may add later. A small size jump can create more flexibility without increasing the monthly rate too much. -
Decide how often you’ll visit.
Your access habits matter. If you plan to stop by frequently, a drive-up unit or a unit closer to the entrance may make day-to-day tasks easier. Even if these units cost a little more, the added convenience can be worth it if you’re coming and going regularly. -
Consider features.
Think about the type of space that suits your items best. If you’re storing belongings you want to keep in reserve for longer periods, a climate-controlled unit (where available) or an indoor unit may be a good match. These features vary by location, so compare options at facilities near you. -
Compare locations.
Prices can vary from one neighborhood to the next. Looking at several nearby Public Storage facilities can help you find a unit that meets your needs without stretching your budget. Sometimes a short drive to a neighboring area or suburb can offer a more affordable rate while still keeping your items within easy reach.
Taking a moment to review your storage plans helps ensure you choose a unit that fits your belongings, your routine, and your budget. Whether you’re storing a few boxes or coordinating a larger project, these steps can help you make a confident, cost-smart choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Public Storage Unit Costs
How much does a storage unit cost at Public Storage?
Storage unit prices vary based on size, location, and availability. Smaller units such as a 5×5 may start at lower monthly rates, while larger units like a 10×20 or 10×30 typically cost more due to the increased space. Prices also differ from city to city—dense metro areas tend to have higher monthly costs compared to suburban or outlying neighborhoods. For the most current pricing, you can check available units online at any Public Storage location.
What affects the price of a storage unit?
Several factors influence the monthly cost of a storage unit, including unit size, location, unit type (indoor, outdoor, drive-up, or climate-controlled where available), demand and availability at a specific facility, and move-in promotions offered online. Because these factors shift over time, pricing may change depending on when you reserve your unit.
What is the difference in cost between standard and climate-controlled units?
Climate-controlled units (where available) typically cost more than standard units due to added features that help moderate temperature and humidity.
Do storage unit prices vary by city?
Yes. Monthly rates differ significantly depending on the city or region. Larger cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco often carry higher rates than smaller cities or suburban communities. Even within the same city, prices can differ between neighborhoods based on demand, accessibility, and facility layout.
Are there discounts or online promotions?
Many Public Storage facilities offer online promotions that may reduce your move-in cost. These offers vary by facility and are subject to change, so it’s best to check the website for the most current specials before reserving a unit.
Do storage unit prices change over time?
Storage unit prices may adjust based on market conditions, demand, seasonal trends, or availability at a specific facility. The rate shown when you complete your online reservation reflects the current price for that unit at that time.
Is there a long-term contract?
Public Storage units are rented on a month-to-month basis. This gives customers the flexibility to store for a short project, seasonal needs, or a longer period without a long-term lease.
What are the price differences between indoor, outdoor, and drive-up units?
Drive-up units offer ground-level convenience and often fall within a broad price range depending on size and location. Indoor units vary in cost based on floor level and accessibility, while climate-controlled units generally fall at the higher end of the range. The best choice depends on how often you plan to access your items and the type of belongings you’re storing.
What does vehicle storage cost?
Vehicle storage pricing depends on whether you choose uncovered parking, covered parking, or indoor vehicle storage where available. Uncovered spaces tend to have the lowest monthly rates, while covered and enclosed spaces fall into higher pricing tiers. In major cities, the price range for vehicle storage may vary widely based on space size and local demand.
How can I estimate the cost of the storage unit size I need?
Start by making a list of everything you plan to store, then compare your list with a storage size guide or online estimator. Common sizes such as 5×5, 5×10, 10×10, and 10×20 each include a range of typical monthly prices depending on the market.
When is the best time to reserve a unit?
The best time to reserve a unit is when you know your move-in date and see a price and size that fits your needs. Because availability and rates can change, locking in a reservation online ensures you capture the current price for that specific unit.
Can I move to a different size later?
Yes. Because rentals are month-to-month, you can switch to a larger or smaller unit as your needs change, depending on availability at your chosen facility. Customers often size up or down during moves, renovations, or business transitions.
How can I compare unit prices between Public Storage locations?
You can enter your ZIP code on the Public Storage website and compare unit sizes, features, and prices across nearby facilities.
Do vehicle storage prices differ from standard unit prices?
Yes. Vehicle storage options typically have their own pricing ranges based on whether the space is uncovered, covered, or enclosed. Larger parking sizes generally cost more per month, and pricing varies with location and availability.
Can promotions lower my first month’s cost?
Some locations may offer move-in specials that reduce the cost of your first month. Because these offers vary, checking online before reserving a unit is the best way to see what’s currently available.
When you’re ready to take the next step, you can search by ZIP code on the Public Storage website to compare sizes, features, and monthly prices at locations near you. Browsing a few nearby facilities makes it easier to see how rates vary by unit type and city, so you can choose the space that fits your budget, timeline, and storage plans.
Features and amenities vary by location, facility, and unit. “Climate-controlled” and related terms (such as air-conditioned, heated, or humidistat-equipped) describe storage spaces designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels compared to non-climate-controlled units. Public Storage does not guarantee temperature or humidity ranges. Availability, features, and unit types may differ by location, facility, and unit. Please confirm with your facility whether specific climate-controlled features are available on units at that location.
