The self-storage industry in California is robust, with over 3,500 facilities across the state. According to The State of Self-Storage in California, the industry generates over $3 billion in annual revenue.
When it comes to average monthly costs, rates can vary greatly depending on factors like unit size, amenities, and location. According to Self-Storage Market Report | California, the average monthly rate for a 10′ x 10′ unit was $210 as of July 2023. However, prices range from around $50 for a small 5′ x 5′ unit in a rural area to over $500 for a large climate-controlled unit in an urban area like San Francisco or Los Angeles.
Key factors that affect the monthly price of a storage unit in California include size, security features, climate control, location, peak season rates, promotional discounts, and lease terms.
Average Prices Statewide
Research shows that the average monthly cost for a storage unit in California is around $207 (1). However, prices can vary significantly depending on the size of the unit.
| Unit Size | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Small (5’x5′) | $60 |
| Medium (10’x10′) | $130 |
| Large (10’x20′) | $205 |
As the data shows, small storage units in California average around $60 per month, while medium units average $130 and large units average $205. Renters looking to minimize costs may want to opt for a smaller unit if possible.
(1) https://www.rentcafe.com/storage-units/us/ca/
Factors Affecting Price
Location is one of the biggest factors affecting the price of a storage unit. Larger cities with higher demand tend to have more expensive rates than smaller towns. For example, according to StorageCafe, the average price for a 10×10 storage unit in Los Angeles is $205 per month as of November 2023. Meanwhile in San Diego, the average for a 10×10 unit is $166 per month as of December 2023, according to StorageCafe data. The greater availability and lower demand in San Diego leads to lower average prices compared to L.A.
In general, larger metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco have the highest storage unit costs in California due to population density and land constraints. Smaller cities and rural areas tend to have lower prices given their ample space and less competition. However, prices can vary widely even within the same metro area based on specific location and individual storage facilities.
Unit Size
The size of the storage unit is one of the biggest factors affecting the monthly price. Storage units are typically measured in square feet. The cost per square foot tends to be lower for larger units compared to smaller ones. According to a 2019 industry report, the average monthly cost per square foot was:
- $1.08 for units under 50 square feet
- $0.93 for units between 50-100 square feet
- $0.83 for units between 100-300 square feet
- $0.63 for units over 300 square feet
This shows that the monthly rate per square foot decreases as the unit size increases. For example, a 50 square foot unit may cost $54 per month while a 500 square foot unit may cost $315 per month. The larger unit has a lower per-square-foot rate. Renters can save money by renting a larger unit if they have enough belongings to fill the space.
Security Features
The level of security at a storage facility can significantly impact the monthly rental rate. Facilities typically offer basic features like gated access and perimeter fencing. More advanced systems like video surveillance, individual door alarms, and electronic keypad entry raise costs but also ensure the protection of renters’ belongings.
Video camera systems range from $300-$400 per camera installed, with most facilities requiring at least 4-8 cameras for adequate coverage. Systems must also include video storage and monitoring capabilities. Individual door alarms that detect forced entry start around $30 per door. Keypad and touchscreen entry systems cost $2,500-$5,000 per entry point.
While basic security like perimeter gates may be included in the standard rental rate, upgraded systems like 24/7 video monitoring can add 10%-20% or more to the monthly cost per unit. However, enhanced security gives renters important peace of mind that their possessions are safe from burglary and vandalism.
Amenities
Many storage facilities offer amenities that increase convenience and justify higher prices. One of the most popular is climate control, which maintains a moderate temperature inside units and protects items from humidity or extreme heat and cold. According to SpareFoot, climate control adds an average of 62% to the monthly rental cost of a storage unit.
Some units feature electrical outlets, allowing tenants to plug in lights, appliances, and tools inside the unit. Facilities may charge by the outlet or build the cost into the monthly rent. Outlets allow customers to make better use of the space but also increase prices.
Load and unload assistance is also common. Employees can help transport belongings, operate dollies and carts, and hold doors open. This full-service experience makes the moving process easier but leads to higher rental fees.
While basic units start around $40-50 per month on average, those with amenities like climate control, electricity, and load assistance often run $100-300. Convenience comes at a cost, so customers must decide which features are necessary for their storage needs (How Much Does a Storage Unit Cost).
Lease Terms
The average length of a storage unit rental is around 6 to 12 months according to Methodology DBRS Morningstar North American Commercial ABS and RMBS Ratings Methodology (https://assets.ctfassets.net/dqx4ywg83raq/6Ub34odRYbk2iotl5UDtXl/5a7e6be2615f6833305d5d29eb40c30d/402646.pdf). Most storage facilities offer monthly leases that can be canceled at any time with 30 days’ notice. However, longer lease terms of 6 months to 1 year are common and may offer a 10-20% discount on the monthly rate according to part ii – information required in offering circular (https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1781324/000121390019024875/filename2.htm).
Monthly leases offer maximum flexibility but no discount. Longer 6-12 month leases lock in a lower rate in exchange for a longer commitment. On average, most customers rent a storage unit for around 6-12 months. Facility managers often provide discounts to encourage longer lease terms for greater revenue stability.
Time of Year
Storage unit prices fluctuate seasonally, with the highest rates typically occurring in the spring and summer. According to When is the Best Time to Rent a Storage Unit?, spring is known as the peak season for self-storage due to the uptick in moving that happens during these months. Prices can be up to 25% higher from March through August compared to other times of the year.
The summer months remain busy as well. Many people rent storage units when moving for college or other temporary relocations over the summer. Prices may start to dip after Labor Day in September, but often remain elevated through October.
To get the best rates, aim for the late fall, winter, and early spring months. Facilities often offer move-in discounts and other promotions during their slower periods to entice renters. HomeGuide reports some of the lowest average prices from November through February nationwide.
While seasonal fluctuations vary by region, being flexible with move-in dates can lead to significant savings on monthly storage unit costs.
Getting the Best Deal
You can often save money on storage units in California by shopping around, negotiating, and considering alternatives. Here are some tips:
Compare Facilities
Prices can vary dramatically between storage facilities, even in the same area. Look at multiple options and pay attention to move-in specials and discounts. According to one source, “In some cases, you can manage to bargain with the price per unit of storage. We have five tips for negotiating with storage facilities.” (Source)
Negotiate
Don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially if the facility has high vacancy rates. One Reddit user advised: “Check the facility’s occupancy and if it’s high there’s likely nothing you can do. When occupancy is high, rates go up to maximize revenue.” (Source)
Consider Alternatives
Renting a storage unit may not always be the most cost-effective option. Consider downsizing or decluttering instead, storing items with friends/family, or renting a garage or small warehouse space.
Conclusion
In summary, the average monthly cost for a storage unit in California ranges from $80 to $200 depending on size, features, location and time of year. Smaller units tend to run $80-120/month while larger units are $150-200 on average. Security features like 24/7 video monitoring and climate control also increase prices. Units in major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are more expensive than rural locations. Prices are lowest in the winter months when demand drops off.
By carefully considering your specific needs in terms of size, security, amenities, and timing, you can find the best monthly price on a storage unit that fits your budget. Being flexible on unit size and location can lead to significant savings. Paying month-to-month rather than a long-term lease also provides cost flexibility.
With some savvy research and price comparisons, renting a storage unit in California can be affordable. Taking advantage of move-in specials and negotiating for lower rates can also help you secure the optimal rate.