Storage unit size guide
Picking the right size is the easiest way to save on storage. A unit that is one size too big can cost $35 to $80 more every month. This guide shows each common size drawn to scale, what fits inside and what it costs.
Prices from smallest to largest
$52 – $256per month, 5x5 to 10x30 national averages
National average street rates run from about $52 for a 5x5 to $256 for a 10x30. The 10x10, at about $119, is the most rented size because it holds a one to two bedroom apartment.
Every size, drawn to scale
Each grid square is 5 by 5 feet. The colored line marks the door. Prices are national average street rates for standard units.
What fits in each size
| Size | Area | Standard | What fits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5x5 | 25 sq ft | $52 | A dresser, a mattress set and several boxes |
| 5x10 | 50 sq ft | $74 | A queen bed, dresser, desk and boxes; a studio apartment |
| 10x10 | 100 sq ft | $119 | The contents of a 1 to 2 bedroom apartment |
| 10x15 | 150 sq ft | $156 | A 2 to 3 bedroom apartment, including a couch, beds and a piano |
| 10x20 | 200 sq ft | $193 | A 3 to 4 bedroom home with appliances, or one car |
| 10x30 | 300 sq ft | $256 | A 3 to 5 bedroom home with large furniture and appliances |
How to choose the right size
- List the big items first: beds, couches, tables, appliances. These decide the size more than boxes do.
- Count boxes and plan to stack them to the ceiling.
- Leave a walkway if you will need to reach items often.
- Measure long items, such as sofas, mattresses and kayaks, against the unit's depth.
- When in doubt, ask to see the unit; most facilities will let you look before renting.
Quick guide by home size
- Dorm or a few rooms of boxes: 5x5
- Studio apartment: 5x10
- 1 to 2 bedroom apartment: 10x10
- 2 to 3 bedroom home: 10x15
- 3 to 4 bedroom home or a car: 10x20
- 4 to 5 bedroom home: 10x30
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?.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common storage unit size?
The 10x10 is the most popular size because it holds the contents of a one to two bedroom apartment.
What size storage unit do I need for a 3 bedroom house?
Usually a 10x20. A smaller three bedroom home may fit in a 10x15.
How tall are storage units?
Most units have ceilings around 8 feet, though this varies by facility.
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.