How much is a storage unit?
The average 10x10 storage unit, the most popular size, rents for about $120 a month in the U.S. Small 5x5 units start around $35 to $50, and large 10x30 units run $250 or more. Here is what each size costs, standard and climate-controlled, and why the price you are quoted may differ.
Quick answer
$120per month, average 10x10 unit
Most renters pay $115 to $175 a month for a 10x10 unit. Booking-site deals in low-cost markets bring that down to about $75, while in New York City, Los Angeles and Boston the average is close to $270 or more. Climate control adds about 10% to 25%.
Average price by unit size
These national averages come from Yardi Matrix street rates, the advertised price for a new renter. Larger units cost more per month but less per square foot.
| Unit size | Area | Standard | Climate-controlled |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5x5 | 25 sq ft | $52 | $53 |
| 5x10 | 50 sq ft | $74 | $82 |
| 10x10 | 100 sq ft | $119 | $134 |
| 10x15 | 150 sq ft | $156 | $179 |
| 10x20 | 200 sq ft | $193 | $232 |
| 10x30 | 300 sq ft | $256 | $327 |
Unit footprints drawn to scale. Each grid square is 5 by 5 feet.
Why prices from different sources differ
You will see different averages depending on who measures. Advertised street rates (about $119 to $120 for a 10x10) reflect the posted price. SpareFoot's 2026 rental data shows renters who booked online paid closer to $75 to $80 for a 10x10, because many used move-in discounts. Facility chains publish their own averages, such as $115 for a standard 10x10 at Extra Space Storage.
| Size | Extra Space Storage avg. | HomeGuide range | SpareFoot rentals avg. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5x5 | $35 | $65 – $100 | $35 |
| 5x10 | $60 | $100 – $150 | $51 |
| 10x10 | $115 | $125 – $175 | $80 |
| 10x15 | $150 | $150 – $200 | $109 |
| 10x20 | $204 | $200 – $250 | $130 |
| 10x30 | $290 | — | — |
Fees to add to the monthly rent
Rent is not the only cost. Most facilities add a one-time admin fee (Extra Space Storage, for example, charges $50), require insurance or a protection plan of about $10 to $30 a month, and expect you to bring or buy a disc lock for $10 to $20. Some ask for a deposit, often one month's rent. After move-in specials end, rents commonly rise 5% to 10% every 6 to 18 months.
Ask for the full move-in total, not just the monthly rate. See Storage unit fees and insurance and How much does it cost to rent a storage unit?.
What affects the price
- City. The average 10x10 is $98 in Houston but $277 in Los Angeles. See Storage unit prices by city.
- Size. Moving from a 10x10 to a 10x20 adds roughly $70 to $100 a month.
- Climate control. Usually 10% to 25% more. See Climate-controlled storage cost.
- Access. Ground-floor and drive-up units cost more than upper-floor interior units.
- Season. Demand and prices peak in late spring and summer, when most people move.
- Promotions. First-month-free and half-off specials lower the start price, but rent often rises later.
How to choose the right size
Renting a size too big is the most common way people overpay. A 5x10 holds a studio apartment; a 10x10 holds one to two bedrooms; a 10x20 holds a three to four bedroom house. Our Storage unit size guide shows what fits in each size.
How to pay less
- Compare at least three facilities, including ones a few miles outside the city center.
- Book online; online rates are often lower than walk-in rates.
- Rent in fall or winter, when demand is lowest.
- Skip climate control unless you are storing sensitive items.
- Ask about veteran, student, senior or prepay discounts.
More ideas in Cheap storage units: how to find the lowest price.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a 10x10 storage unit per month?
About $120 a month on average in 2026, with most renters paying $115 to $175. Prices range from under $100 in Houston and San Antonio to over $270 in New York City and Los Angeles.
How much is a small storage unit?
A 5x5 averages about $35 to $52 a month and a 5x10 about $60 to $74, depending on the source and location.
Is a storage unit cheaper by the year?
Most facilities rent month to month. Some offer 5% to 10% off or a free month when you prepay several months; ask before you sign.
Do storage unit prices go up?
Often, yes. Rent increases of 5% to 10% every 6 to 18 months are common, especially after a move-in special ends.
Why is my quote higher than the average?
Location, unit floor, climate control, demand and taxes all change the price. Averages also mix discounted online rentals with full street rates.
Sources
Prices are averages and typical ranges from published storage market data. Rates change often and vary by facility, so confirm prices and fees before you rent. Storage Unit Costs is not a storage company; read our disclaimer.