Storage Unit Guide: Sizes and Prices

One of the most common mistakes people make when renting storage is choosing the wrong size unit—either paying for unused space or cramming items into too-small quarters. According to the Self Storage Association, approximately 30% of renters change unit sizes within the first three months, often incurring moving hassle and additional fees.

This comprehensive guide helps you choose the perfect size the first time.

Understanding Storage Unit Dimensions

Storage units are measured in feet, listed as width × depth (for example, 5×10 means 5 feet wide by 10 feet deep). However, understanding square footage doesn't tell the whole story—ceiling height dramatically affects capacity.

Standard Heights:

• Indoor units: Typically 8-foot ceilings
• Outdoor units: Often 8-10 feet, sometimes higher
• Vehicle storage: May offer 12+ foot clearance

A 10×10 unit with 8-foot ceilings offers 800 cubic feet of storage—think about vertical stacking when estimating capacity.

Storage Unit Size Chart

5×5 Storage Units (25 sq ft)

Real-world comparison: Walk-in closet

Typical contents:

• Small furniture pieces (dresser, bookshelf)
• Seasonal decorations (holiday items)
• Sports equipment (bikes, skis, golf clubs)
• Business records (file boxes)
• Motorcycle storage

Boxes: Approximately 20-30 medium boxes

Best for: College students, seasonal storage, small business inventory

5×10 Storage Units (50 sq ft)

Real-world comparison: Large walk-in closet or small bedroom

Typical contents:

• Studio apartment or dorm room
• Bedroom set (mattress, dresser, nightstand)
• Small appliances
• Boxes and seasonal items
• Office furniture

Boxes: Approximately 40-60 medium boxes plus furniture

Best for: Small apartment moves, office storage, seasonal business inventory

10×10 Storage Units (100 sq ft)

Real-world comparison: Half a standard garage

Typical contents:

• One-bedroom apartment (fully furnished)
• Large appliances (washer, dryer, refrigerator)
• Dining room set
• Living room furniture
• Boxes and personal items

Boxes: Approximately 75-100 medium boxes plus furniture

Best for: One-bedroom apartments, small home contents, business inventory and equipment

10×15 Storage Units (150 sq ft)

Real-world comparison: Large bedroom

Typical contents:

• Two-bedroom apartment
• Multiple rooms of furniture
• Appliances
• Patio furniture
• Business equipment

Boxes: Approximately 100-150 medium boxes plus furniture

Best for: Two-bedroom apartments, military deployments, business storage

10×20 Storage Units (200 sq ft)

Real-world comparison: Standard one-car garage

Typical contents:

• Three-bedroom house
• Major appliances
• Patio furniture
• Vehicle (car, boat, or trailer)
• Business inventory

Boxes: Approximately 150-200 medium boxes plus furniture

Best for: Whole-house storage, vehicle storage, growing businesses

10×25 and 10×30 Storage Units (250-300 sq ft)

Real-world comparison: Large one-and-a-half-car garage

Typical contents:

• Four+ bedroom house
• Multiple vehicles (car plus boat/trailer)
• Large furniture collections
• Extensive business inventory

Best for: Whole-house storage during major moves, business operations, estate settlements

Factors Affecting Storage Unit Pricing

According to data from SpareFoot, a leading storage marketplace, prices vary significantly based on several factors:

• Location: Urban areas typically cost 20-50% more than suburban or rural locations.
• Climate Control: Climate-controlled units cost 30-50% more than standard units but provide essential protection.
• Floor Level: Ground-floor units may command slight premiums for loading convenience.
• Access Type: Drive-up access costs more than interior hallway access but offers superior convenience.
• Security Features: Enhanced security (individual alarms, advanced surveillance) may increase costs.
• Lease Length: Month-to-month leases offer flexibility but cost more than 6-12 month commitments.
• Promotions: First-month free, percentage discounts, or waived fees can significantly reduce initial costs.
• Insurance: Required or optional insurance adds $10-30 monthly depending on coverage limits.

National Price Ranges (2025)

Note: Prices vary dramatically by region. Coastal California markets like Monterey Peninsula typically fall in the higher end of these ranges due to real estate costs and demand.

Climate-Controlled vs. Standard Units

When You NEED Climate Control:

• Fine art, antiques, or collectibles
• Electronics and appliances
• Important documents or photographs
• Musical instruments
• Wine collections
• Leather furniture or goods
• Wooden furniture (prevents warping)
• Clothing and textiles for extended periods
• Business inventory sensitive to temperature

When Standard Units Work:

• Tools and equipment
• Outdoor furniture (metal, plastic)
• Vehicles and boats
• Sporting goods (unless vintage/valuable)
• Items stored short-term (under 3 months)

Calculating Your Perfect Size

Step 1: Inventory Everything

Create a comprehensive list of items you'll store. Don't forget furniture pieces, boxes, appliances, seasonal items, sports equipment, and special items.

Step 2: Use the Room Method

Count rooms you're storing:

• Studio/1 bedroom = 5×10 or 10×10
• 2 bedrooms = 10×15
• 3 bedrooms = 10×20
• 4+ bedrooms = 10×25 or 10×30

Step 3: Add 20% Buffer

Always choose slightly larger than your calculation suggests. This allows walking space to access items, organization flexibility, and room for additional items later.

Step 4: Consider Access Needs

If you'll access items frequently, choose a larger unit for aisle space and organization. If storing long-term, you can maximize density.

Cost-Saving Strategies

1. Right-Size Your Unit: Paying for 10×20 when you need 10×15 wastes $50-100 monthly.
2. Negotiate Move-In Specials: Many facilities offer first month free or percentage discounts—always ask.
3. Pay in Advance: Some facilities discount 6-12 month prepayments by 5-10%.
4. Share a Unit: If legally permitted and you trust the co-renter, sharing cuts costs in half.
5. Declutter First: Sell, donate, or discard before storing. Every item you eliminate saves money.
6. Choose Standard Over Climate Control: If your items don't need it, don't pay for it.
7. Time Your Move: Avoid peak moving seasons (summer, month-end) when demand raises prices.
8. Review Insurance Needs: Don't over-insure low-value items or duplicate homeowner's/renter's insurance coverage.