The Cost of Self Storage in New York City, NY
The cost of renting a storage unit varies widely throughout the United States, with costs tending to be higher in more densely populated urban areas than rural areas. With less available space and high property values making real estate and a city’s overall cost of goods more expensive, renters in major cities such as New York incur higher self-storage costs well over the state and national averages. With approximately 8.4 million residents as of the 2018 census, New York City is the most populated city in the country and has a median home cost of $680,500. These factors are reflected in average storage unit costs that can amount to twice the price or more of storage units in other parts of the state and the country.
Average price of storage units by size in New York City, NY
| Size of Storage Unit | City Average | State Average | National Average |
| 5×5 | $89 | $52 | $41 |
| 5×10 | $229 | $86 | $59 |
| 10×10 | $267 | $140 | $95 |
| 10×15 | $169 | $176 | $113 |
| 10×20 | $N/A | $164 | $133 |
What to Consider when Looking for Storage in New York City, NY
When thinking about storing your belongings in a New York City storage facility, it’s important to consider factors such as when and how long you’ll be storing your items, the types of items you’re storing and the level of security you desire in a facility. If you’re storing items that could be affected by extremely cold temperatures or fluctuations in moisture levels, the city’s high July humidity levels or cold winter months may make it more beneficial to select a climate-controlled unit. A climate-controlled storage unit will help protect your belongings from damage such as humidity-induced mold growth and wood shrinking or cracking that can occur when the air becomes too cold.
Fortunately, in New York City, property crime rates including theft and burglary average over 10% lower than the national average. However, because rates may vary throughout the city depending on the neighborhood, you may want to learn about a facility’s security systems such as entry guards, checkpoints and camera surveillance. This may be an even greater concern if you plan to access your unit late at night and are considering a facility that has 24-hour access.
Helpful Tips for Moving to New York City, NY
Located within the fourth largest metro area in the world, New York City is a rich cultural and business center filled with towering skyscrapers and world-class arts, food and entertainment amenities. While residents may incur a longer-than-average daily commute, the city offers an extensive public subway and bus system to help residents without cars traverse its five boroughs. Additionally, residents have access to three major international airports that often offer direct flights to locations around the world.
While it’s no secret that New York City’s cost of living is significantly higher than the U.S. average, the city is home to prestigious universities and extensive benefits programs that can expand residents’ opportunities. Other perks of living in New York include a diverse population and the many beautiful outdoor spaces and amenities located throughout Central Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is self-storage in New York, NY?
The average price of self-storage in New York ranges from $89 for a 5’x5′ unit to $169 for a 10’x20′ unit. Storage unit costs vary depending on the city’s population density and property values. New York is one of the most populated cities in the country and has a median home price of $776,100, making the demand and price of storage units nearly double the average cost of other U.S. cities.
How to get cheap storage units in New York, NY?
To find a cost-effective storage unit in New York, compare prices from local facilities. The total price will mostly depend on the unit size, location, rental term, and amenities. You can cut costs by choosing a smaller unit, expanding your search area, minimizing your amenities, and opting for a longer rental term. Many facilities also offer discounts or new client promotions to reduce the cost of your unit.
Do I need a 24-hour storage unit in New York, NY?
24-hour storage units are highly beneficial for those who need to access their belongings regularly or outside of regular hours. While most storage units have a schedule for visiting them, a 24-hour unit is always available. Many around-the-clock units also have additional security measures such as guards, video cameras, and entry checkpoints. They are often more expensive than standard units but are a worthwhile investment if you require additional flexibility.
Are storage units safe?
While gates, key codes, and padlocks protect your storage unit, they are still prone to theft or burglary. A unit with additional amenities such as guards, video cameras, and alarm systems is essential to further protect your belongings. You can also take other safety measures, including putting the most valuable items at the back, upgrading your lock, and purchasing insurance as an extra layer of protection.
Does home insurance cover storage units?
Many home insurance plans cover off-site items like those in your storage unit. However, it is often capped at 10% of your general policy, offering minimal coverage for your stored belongings. You can purchase additional storage unit insurance from the storage facility or a third-party provider to cover your valuables. You can even bundle your insurance policies together and receive a discount.
