The Cost of Self Storage in San Diego, CA
As an economic center for military and defense, tourism, international trade, research and manufacturing, San Diego has a high overall cost of living compared to the California state and national averages. The biggest cost factor is expensive housing, both in terms of property values and rental costs. This drives the high cost of self-storage in America’s Finest City, which is one of the most expensive cities in the United States.
Another factor for expensive self-service storage in San Diego is the large population, which ranks as the second highest in California and the eighth nationwide. This contributes to the high demand for housing, affecting the demand for self-storage and its cost. The area is also home to at least 15 colleges and universities within city limits, translating to significant demand for self-storage by a sizable student population.
Average price of storage units by size in San Diego, CA
| Size of Storage Unit | City Average | State Average | National Average |
| 5×5 | $63 | $52 | $41 |
| 5×10 | $88 | $77 | $59 |
| 10×10 | $144 | $125 | $95 |
| 10×15 | $196 | $159 | $113 |
| 10×20 | $250 | $184 | $133 |
What to Consider when Looking for Storage in San Diego, CA
Known for its mild year-round climate and with a Sperling comfort index of 9.2 (10 being the highest), San Diego experiences warm, dry summers and mild winters. The city’s relatively subtle shifts in temperature offer a stable environment for storage of basic items such as holiday decorations, seasonal clothing and sturdy furniture and appliances. For sensitive and valuable items, such as paintings, electronics, antiques and photographs, there are climate-controlled units available in the city, which is the recommended option for long-term storage.
San Diego is a relatively safe place for self-storage when compared to some cities. Its Sperling’s Best Places property crime rating of 31.4 is slightly lower than the California and U.S. averages. For peace of mind, taking security into consideration is recommended when choosing self-storage facilities in San Diego. Some standard security features to look for include 24-hour surveillance cameras, computer-controlled access and proper fencing.
Helpful Tips for Moving to San Diego, CA
The abundance of sunny days in San Diego makes the city a year-round outdoor playground for residents and tourists. America’s Finest City boasts plenty of leisure destinations, including the iconic Balboa Park, extensive beaches and various arts and culture attractions. Part of the San Diego-Tijuana metropolitan conurbation, San Diego is just a short drive from the U.S.-Mexico border via Interstate 5.
Compared to other major cities, San Diego has a shorter average commute time by private vehicle at 26 minutes. However, the commute time via public transit is doubled at 52 minutes. With more than 80% of San Diego metro residents driving alone during commutes, the city is ranked 40th among the most congested in the United States. Some possible ways to avoid rush-hour traffic include driving alternate routes and taking other commute modes such as a motorcycle, a bicycle, the trolley or commuter trains.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a storage unit in San Diego, CA?
The average cost of self-storage in San Diego ranges from $63 for a 5’x5′ unit to $250 for a 10’x20′ unit. With a population of over 2.4 million people and growing, the demand for storage units is very high. San Diego also has 15 colleges and universities within the city limits, causing a high demand for self-storage by the student population. This increased demand results in higher-than-average storage prices compared to other cities.
Is climate-controlled self-storage necessary in San Diego, CA?
With San Diego summer temperatures averaging 75 degrees, climate-controlled self-storage units are often recommended. Excessive heat can cause warping, melting, and other damage to valuable items. Electronics, wooden furniture, photographs, documents, and artwork are especially prone to heat damage. Opting for a climate-controlled unit will ensure your valuables stay protected from heat, cold, humidity, and other environmental factors.
What amenities are necessary for safe, secure self-storage in San Diego, CA?
A self-storage unit with security amenities, including video cameras, guards, and alarm systems, will keep your valuables safe. While many units come with a keypad, padlock, and gates, these often aren’t enough to keep out burglars. Adding additional amenities to your storage unit will increase the price, but it will offer peace of mind knowing your belongings are safe and secure.
Can you sleep in a storage unit?
It is against the law to sleep in a storage unit, and those caught can receive fines, jail time, and termination of their storage lease. In addition to being unlawful, sleeping in a storage unit presents many hazards, including hyperthermia, hypothermia, lack of ventilation, and fire risk. Storage units should only be used to store your belongings and never as a sleeping or living arrangement.
What size storage unit do I need?
The size of the storage unit you require will depend on the size and amount of items you’re looking to store. Before choosing a unit, create a list of all the items going into storage to determine the size you require. A small 5’x10’ unit can fit the contents of a one-bedroom apartment, while a large 10’x30′ unit can hold the equivalent of a five-bedroom house. If you’re in between sizes, it’s best to round up to ensure enough space to fit your items comfortably.
