What Size Storage Unit Do I Need?
A 1-bedroom apartment typically needs a 5x10 unit (50 sq ft), a 2-bedroom home needs 10x10 (100 sq ft), and a 3-4 bedroom house needs 10x15 to 10x20 (150-200 sq ft). Add one size up if you have large furniture. Use our Storage Unit Size Estimator for a personalized recommendation.
Key Takeaways
- Storage unit sizes are measured in feet (width x depth).
- Always overestimate—items take more space than expected once boxed and stacked.
- Climate-controlled units may be smaller but offer better protection for sensitive items.
Explanation
Storage unit sizes are measured in feet (width x depth). If you need to store a car, you need at least a 10x20 unit. A 5x5 unit (25 sq ft) is like a small closet and fits boxes and small furniture. A 5x10 (50 sq ft) is walk-in closet sized and works for studio apartments.
For a typical 1-2 bedroom apartment, a 10x10 unit (100 sq ft) provides enough space. This size fits a full bedroom set, living room furniture, and plenty of boxes. It's about half a garage.
Larger homes require more space. A 3-bedroom house typically fills a 10x15 unit (150 sq ft), while 4+ bedroom homes may need 10x20 (200 sq ft) or larger. Check how many boxes a 3-bedroom house needs to estimate your storage volume. These can also fit vehicles alongside furniture.
Storage unit pricing varies widely by location and size. As of 2025, the national average monthly cost is about $90-100 for a 5x10 unit, $130-170 for a 10x10, $175-225 for a 10x15, and $200-300 for a 10x20. Climate-controlled units add 20-50% to the base price. First-floor and drive-up accessible units also cost more than upper-floor units that require elevator access. Many facilities offer first-month-free promotions, but month-to-month rates after that can be 10-20% higher than the advertised rate, so ask about long-term pricing before signing.
To maximize the usable space in your unit, disassemble furniture like bed frames, tables, and shelving. Stand sofas on their ends to save floor space. Place heavier boxes and items on the bottom and lighter ones on top. Leave a narrow aisle down the center so you can access items in the back without unloading everything. Use the insides of dressers, appliances, and storage bins to pack smaller items like towels, linens, or clothing. A well-organized 10x10 unit can hold the equivalent of a 10x15 that was packed carelessly.
Things to Know
- Always overestimate—items take more space than expected once boxed and stacked. Learn how much moving companies charge as many offer storage options bundled with the move.
- Climate-controlled units may be smaller but offer better protection for sensitive items.
- Consider vertical stacking to maximize space efficiency.
- If storing a vehicle, you need at least a 10x20 unit for a standard sedan or SUV, and the unit must have drive-up access with a door wide enough to accommodate the vehicle's width plus mirrors.