How much do storage units cost in NYC? In a city where rental rates for a studio apartment are more expensive than large homes in other parts of the country, keeping your footprint small and saving on storage are concerns for many.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a straightforward answer here, as the total price will vary based a number of things, such as the location, size, and whether it has features like climate control or additional security. To give a base range, you’ll find some going for less than $40 per month with others topping $1,000. That’s probably not particularly helpful, so we’ll break down the various types and what your dollar will get you based on your needs and location.
Location
Rates for a medium room start at about $185 in Parkchester. That’s the least expensive neighborhood of the least expensive borough—The Bronx. They climb to nearly $300 in Manhattan’s more affluent neighborhoods, so knowing the layout of New York City helps greatly if you’re trying to save and won’t visit your space often. There are five boroughs in New York City. As the fight for square footage increases, prices go up, meaning the more expensive homes and apartments are, the more expensive it will be for you to stow your belongings. Ranked by rental expense from high to low, with data gathered by StreetEasy, the boroughs are:
- Manhattan
- Queens
- Brooklyn
- Staten Island
- The Bronx
Size
As you’re working out how much storage units cost in NYC, the size of the space will often be the largest determining factor in expense, though sometimes local trumps it. Small: Some places have incredibly tiny spaces—as little as 1’ x 2’. These typically rent out for less than $10 per month. However, most consider about a 5’ x 5’ space to be “small.” That’s 25 square-feet—a about the size of a walk-in closet. They’re ideal if you’re only stowing a few boxes and typically start at about $40, but can climb up near $150. (Hello, Manhattan!) The 5’ x 10’ is also considered “small” to most. That’s 50 square-feet and can run anywhere from $50 to more than $400 per month. The average is about $250 though. Medium: People who are moving and downsizing or who are storing for a family or business often need to move up to a 10’ x 10’ space. That works out to 100 square-feet of space, which is large enough to hold a one or two-bedroom home if mindfully packed. However, people often head out to New Jersey or at least outside the city to get better rates on this size because New York City starts around $120. Large: Those who need to store a whole family’s belongings, a vehicle, or big collection can find 10’ x 15’ through 10’ x 30’ spaces. Suffice it to say, the former starts at about $200 within the city and the latter closer to $400.
Unit vs Locker
Some facilities will offer both units and lockers in the exact same sizes. Traditionally the biggest difference is that lockers have lower ceilings, often only four or five-feet-tall. If height isn’t a concern for you, you may be able to save some cash by going with a locker. In one Brooklyn facility we checked, a ground floor locker was $33 per month while a unit of the same size on the same floor was $97.
Access
You’ll pay a premium for selecting a ground-floor space. For example, the small $97 unit mentioned above drops down to $73 for those willing to take an elevator to their space. Facilities will also charge a bit more if you can drive up to the unit. Those with extended hours will typically be a bit pricier as well.
Climate Control
Climate control is essential if you’re stowing items that are sensitive to temperature and moisture. This includes everything from art to mattresses. Climate control will add a few dollars to your monthly fees as well.
Security
Security measures vary greatly from one location to the next. Some go all out with carded entry, video surveillance, and/or guards. Others have almost nothing. Expect to pay a few dollars more per month if you’re working with a high-tech or very secure facility. A few things that can increase the cost are:
- Electronic Gates
- Perimeter Fences
- In-Unit Alarms
- Surveillance Cameras
Insurance
Despite the fact that facilities take all kinds of precautions to ensure your belongings are safe, they don’t guarantee they will be. Pests, climate issues, theft, and more can result in the damage or loss of your items. Insurance isn’t always mandatory, but it’s usually a good idea. Although every company and plan is a little different, you can usually estimate the cost of insurance by coming up with a total value for what you’re storing. Then, calculate your monthly insurance cost as $1-2 per ever $100 in value.
Get Help Moving
Now that you know how much storage units cost in NYC, let’s work out how to get you there. Whether you’re moving in or out of a storage space, a home, or a commercial space, Metropolis Movers is here to help. We know the five boroughs like the back of our hand, work throughout all of New York, and even handle long-distance moves too. Use our online form to get a free quote or call us directly at (718) 710-4520. *Note: Rates gathered from SpareFoot 8/6/18.
