Sort by:

Storage Units in San Diego

San Diego, CA: Top Things to Know About Storage

Storage for Everyone

There are 281 storage facilities in San Diego. For 1.37 million people, that’s about 154,550 individual units, so you’ve potentially got your work cut out for you when it comes to finding your dream storage unit. Let’s remember one thing though. Not everyone needs storage and those that do don’t all need it at the same time. Most facilities rent month-to-month and leases are flexible, so if you call around to enough places and are willing to accept a size that’s slightly different than your first choice, you should be able to find a spot. There are 100 neighborhoods in San Diego, but that doesn’t mean you have to limit your options to only storage facilities near your apartment. Think outside the box, and hey, think outside the city! The wider a range you have when it comes to choosing a storage facility, the more options you’ll have. Think about it. How often are you going to be accessing your stuff anyway?

Can You Afford It?

Let’s address the elephant in the room. San Diego is expensive. But the tradeoff is that you get to live in one of the most beautiful places in the country (and perhaps the world). If you’re shelling out more than $1,500 for a small studio apartment, you probably desperately need the extra space that a storage unit can give you. But can you afford it? The average storage unit in the US costs around $50 for a 5x5 and around $100 for a 10x20. Let’s compare that to San Diego prices. At A-Aardvark Self Storage, for example, you can get a 5x5 for $52 and a 10x20 for $145. At AAA Alliance Self Storage you can get a 5x5 for $55 and a 10x20 for $269. At A-1 Self Storage you can get a 5x5 for $55 and a 10x20 for $255. We’re certainly not saying that these three examples are representative of all storage facilities in San Diego as you’ll certainly notice price and availability differentiations based on neighborhood, but we’ve noticed that many storage facilities in San Diego do follow this trend. This means that if you only need a closet’s worth of extra space, a 5x5 unit should be within your price range as its only slightly higher than the national average. If you need to store a few room’s worth of furniture and other items, those medium to large sized units are going to cost you more in San Diego than they would in most other areas.

You can cut costs by going in on a storage unit with a friend or family member, renting further away from town and of course by searching storage facilities with us to check for specials. Secure Self Storage offers student and military discounts and SD Storage offers the first month free on select units. Most facilities offer specials to new customers some of which include free use of a truck, a free lock or free moving supplies.

There’s a Huge Military Presence (And They Need Storage)

Speaking of military discounts, did you know that there are almost 100,000 military men and women based out of San Diego? That number goes up even higher if you count spouses and kids. That’s largely because of the area’s deepwater port (where submarines are built). Thousands of businesses including storage facilities rely on the business of military members. If you’re not in the military, expect steep competition for space near the base. If you are in the military, look out for those discounts and remember how the Servicemember Civil Relief Act affects active duty military members in Southern California. Basically, if you’re deployed and you lapse on paying rent on your storage unit, the facility manager can’t auction off the contents of that unit as easily as he or she could auction off the contents of a civilian’s unit. Facilities who violate this are subject to hefty fines, sometimes exceeding $100,000.

Perfect Beach Weather and Your Storage Unit

San Diegans are a laid back bunch who enjoy temperatures in the 70’s year round. At the center of everything is the waterfront, where low buildings make up a skyline that’s often compared to the tools in a toolbox. We’re fans of any city with beachy vibes, but we encourage you to take a short break from lounging on the sand and consider the effect that the oceanside climate can have on the contents of your storage unit. If you store close to the sea, avoid storing metal items like bicycles and musical instruments, as the damp, salty air can cause things like this to rust. Artwork, books and any delicate clothing can also suffer when placed in outdoor storage units close to the ocean. Opt for climate control or store inland that way your stuff is safe from damage, and you can get back to soaking up the sun.

Storage FAQ's

Can I rent climate-controlled spaces in San Diego?
Yes, climate-controlled spaces are available in San Diego due to the varying weather. Temperatures range from 49.6 to 60.8, which can dramatically affect things in your storage unit. For storing items such as wine, wooden items, electronics, metals, artwork, etc. storage facilities recommend that you rent a climate-controlled unit. For questions and more details, please contact a local facility.
Will I receive a monthly invoice?
Most storage companies in San Diego only provide invoices upon request.
Is there anything unique to keep in mind when choosing a storage facility in San Diego?
Some factors to keep in mind when choosing a storage facility in San Diego are: weather, peak rush hour times, items that you will be storing, and location within San Diego.
Do you accept deliveries for customers?
Most storage facilities in San Diego accept deliveries for their customers so that they don't have to go through the process of moving every time they need something to be placed in their storage units. They will keep your items in the office and will inform you when they arrive so that you can place them in your storage unit at your convenience.
How long is the lease and what are its terms?
Storage companies in San Diego offer a month-to-month lease. If for some reason you would like to cancel your lease during a particular month, please contact one of the facility managers to assist you.
Do you have different policies and prices for students or active military members?
Students and active military members are clients that have unique needs because of the nature of their schedules. Most storage facilities in San Diego offer discounts to students, and discounts and different policies for active military members. Please call your local facility or see our students and active military members pages to get detailed and updated information.
Will the company have access to my space?
No, no one in the storage facilities has access to your space unless you specifically ask them or give them the right to do so. For example, you may want them to have access to your unit for things you may want delivered directly to your unit.
Should I rent a drive-up or interior storage unit?
Drive-up storage units are typically more expensive and not as clean as interior units. Drive-up units are more exposed to the elements (water, dust, etc.) and are therefore not as clean as interior units. Interior units, on the other hand, have a much better climate. Essentially, the desire to rent a drive-up unit comes from clients thinking that they will be visiting their unit very frequently, which is surprisingly not the case. Most people don't come to their units as often as they think they will, so given the cost and cleanliness issues, it's better to rent an interior storage unit.
What options do I have for payments? What forms of payment do you accept?
Most storage facilities accept cash, credit cards, or checks. Always ask about autopay, it's faster and much more convenient.
What security measures are taken to protect the storage units?
Security is every storage operator's priority. Speak with the storage manager of a facility of your liking in San Diego to find out what security measures they take to protect your belongings.
Do I need insurance for my storage unit?
We recommend that you get insurance for your belongings because the contents of the units are not insured through storage facilities.
What if I need more or less space after I move in?
Once you move in and feel that you need to move into a smaller or bigger space, storage facilities are happy to accommodate your move. Before renting a space, it is recommended that you speak to a storage facility representative to help you find the best sized unit for your needs. If things change through the course of your lease, they will help make the transition to your next unit as efficient and simple as possible. We also have a size guide that may answer some preliminary questions you may have.
Do you have advice on how to pack my storage space?
Yes, storage managers can provide you with tips and techniques on how to most efficiently utilize your storage space. Their hope is that you can have easy access to your items and that your storage space is worth every penny of your money.
How do I know what size storage I need?
Storage managers would be happy to help you determine which size unit is best for you so that you're not paying for a 22' X 24' unit when you really need a 3' X 3' unit. Please reference our size guide for more information.
What storage space sizes are available?
In San Diego, there are 83 storage facilities, with a total of 381 storage units. Storage unit sizes generally range from 3' X 3' to 22' X 24'. Call one of your local facilities to have a representative find what size unit is best for you.
Do you sell boxes and moving supplies?
Yes, most storage facilities sell boxes of various sizes, tape, bubble wrap, labels, and other items for your packing and moving needs.
What access will I have to my belongings?
You have 83 facilities to choose from in San Diego. Access hours range from 8 to 24 hours a day. Please contact your local facility for more specific information about your unit.
Do you have pest control?
Most facilities in San Diego schedule professional pest control services every month, and twice a month during summer months.
What are the prices of the storage spaces? Are prices based on the square footage of the storage space?
Generally the prices of storage units in San Diego vary based on the size of the storage unit and the location of the unit in the facility. Prices range between 42.0 and 425.0, but representatives can better assist you once they have the details of your storage needs.
If I lose my key, can you provide another one?
No, storage facility employees do not have copies of the keys used for the units. If you lose your key, check with the facility for lock cutting fees. They may also be able to sell another lock and key to you.
Do you provide your customers with movers?
No, storage facilities do not provide movers. However, managers and team members would be happy to provide you with a list of reliable and reasonably priced movers in San Diego. See our resource guide for movers in San Diego.

San Diego, CA University StorageView Hide

San Diego, CA University Storage

Once you start doing your homework on colleges in San Diego, you’ll notice that there are a few schools that all sound like the same place: San Diego State, UC San Diego and the University of San Diego. Another thing these three colleges (and all San Diego colleges) have in common is that they all have students who can benefit from using storage. If you’re a traditional university student who’s been living at home for the past 18 years, the concept of storage might be pretty unfamiliar to you. Don’t worry, we’re going to point you in the right direction so that you can get back to kicking it on the beach (we mean...studying).

Summer Storage

What’s the main thing students need storage for? Summer break. Let’s face it; shipping your stuff home is not just annoying, it’s costly. Once early spring hits, look for flyers around your campus advertising student specials for summer. Often these include discounted rent or the option of making a one time low payment for the whole summer (trust us, it’s nice to not have to deal with monthly bills). Facilities like Secure Self Storage even offer student discounts year round. Storage in San Diego is actually already pretty tight, so you can imagine how much demand goes up once students start looking for space for the summer. Find storage as early as you can and have a list of several different facilities within your budget that way you can be quick on the draw if your first choice is already full. If you’re storing extra clothing, books, sports equipment and a few stray pieces of small furniture for the summer, you’ll probably want a 5x5 unit (it’s like having an extra closet). In San Diego, these typically rent for around $55 a month. If you can find one for under $50, snag it. If the only one you can find is over $70, consider looking elsewhere unless it’s A) In an amazing location or B) Your only option. Another important consideration for summer storage is whether or not you need climate control. Because San Diego is so close to the ocean, the moisture and salt in the air can damage items in storage even if they’re only there for a few months. If you’re storing items made of metal, this can lead to rust. Examples of items that need climate control include bicycles, musical instruments, artwork, photographs, and some types of furniture (think leather and antique wood). Many facilities in San Diego offer indoor storage, underground storage and various options for climate control which will keep your stuff safe and sound and in great condition all summer long.

San Diego Student Budgets and Storage

Look, we know that San Diego is expensive. We know that college is expensive. When you put the two together, you’ve got a combination that only seems to benefit people who enjoy eating Ramen noodles for every single meal of the day. Can you afford storage? Fortunately, storage unit pricing in San Diego seems to benefit students more than anyone. Because you typically need less space than other users (like military members who have been relocated and often need larger units for furniture), you’re probably looking at getting a 5x5 unit or smaller. These size units actually are pretty comparable to the national average (unlike the cost of everything else in San Diego). Another way you can save money is by going in on a storage unit with a friend or boyfriend. Other cost cutters include seeking out a facility that offers something unexpected to save you money. If you rent with Atlas Storage, you can take advantage of a free truck and driver. We don’t know about you, but we think having something like this is a lot cheaper than paying for a mover and a lot easier than having to beg your friend with a truck to help you move your couch in exchange for beer.

Students and Security

This last part is especially important if you’re storing your stuff all summer long and you won’t be visiting your unit until the fall. Don’t be like one San Diego storage user who had a padlock cut and lost some of their belongings to theft. Know how to choose a good lock (Spoiler alert: It’s definitely not a padlock) or rent at a facility that knows how to choose a good one for you. You should also prioritize facilities that offer indoor, upper level storage units over outside units as these are inherently harder to break into and they’re safer from the elements. Other security considerations include a facility with good lighting at night, 24 hour cameras and a reliable fence. You’ll wanted gated access, preferably with an individualized code. Choose a unit that makes you feel good about leaving your stuff there for a few months and your summer vacation will be even more relaxing

San Diego, CA Military StorageView Hide

San Diego, CA Military Storage

As far as military towns go, San Diego is the quintessential west coast base. Thanks to its prime coastal location and deepwater port, San Diego is home to a few major military branches. It has a massive submarine and shipbuilding yard as well as the largest naval fleet in the world. The city is home to about 95,000 uniformed military men and women and that’s not even counting their spouses and kids (add those in and you’ve got a military presence of over 175,000). In addition to that, an estimated 300,000 jobs are related to Department of Defense contracts and 15,000 businesses rely on those contracts. And of course, don’t forget about new recruits and reserves who spend brief amounts of time here. There’s also a big veteran network in San Diego because who wouldn’t want to retire in California? After hearing that, we’re sure that your first thought probably isn’t, “Where am I going to find storage as a military member in San Diego?” We promise you though, this will be a thought that enters your mind at some point. Fortunately, we’ve already done the legwork. Here’s our advice on military storage in San Diego:

Military Perks

Because of the enormous presence of military men and women in San Diego, it’s significantly easier to get a military discount on local storage facilities than it is in a lot of other places. Several examples of the many storage facilities in San Diego that offer military discounts include Secure Self Storage, A-1 Self Storage, and A-Aardvark Self Storage. Most facilities that offer discounts usually offer them to not only active duty military members but also to dependents and veterans too, so as long as you’ve got a military ID, you should be good to go. The typical discount that you should expect is 10%. One other military perk in San Diego is the large network of storage facility managers who are used to dealing with military members and are more familiar with their needs. Most storage facilities are happy to offer flexible, month-to-month leases and online bill pay, as these are features that make your on-the-go military life a little bit easier. Storage facilities in San Diego also know that since your job is to serve and protect our country, you probably expect a property that will protect the items in your storage unit. Look for excellent security features, like good lighting, a fenced in property, restricted access to outsiders and a manager that knows the value of a good lock. In San Diego, you can find built in extra security by opting for upper level indoor units as well as underground units (All American Self Storage is a great place for the latter).

Storage and Military Housing

Military housing can range from a bunk in the barracks to a privatized housing development to a flyer referring you to decent apartments in the area. Where you’re stationed in San Diego will determine your housing options as well as your storage needs. Whatever your situation is, you can expect it to change a few times over the course of your military career, whether that means moving from a small room to a house or between apartments in different cities. Because we’re talking about military storage in San Diego rather than just military storage in general, you might find that the high cost of living in the city forces you into a smaller apartment or house than the one you lived in in your previous city. Trying to figure out how to fit a three bedroom house’s worth of furniture, clothing and other items into a two bedroom apartment can seem impossible. We recommend separating what you absolutely must have in your new place beforehand and putting the other items in storage. You can use our storage calculator to keep track of what you’re putting in storage and figure out what storage size you need. If you need a storage unit big enough to fit at least an extra room of stuff in, you’ll probably be looking at a unit that’s at least 10x10 or 10x20. In San Diego, these run at between $150 on the low end of the spectrum and $300 on the high end of the spectrum. Since you’re new in town, choose facilities that offer specials for new customers like one month of free storage. If you’ve signed a 12 month lease on an apartment or home and you know you’ll be storing your items for at least that long, talk to your facility manager about lease options and see what you can do to lock in a rate for the length of the time you’re in your current housing situation. And remember, if you’re storing for at least a few months, consider the advantages of facilities that offer climate control so that your items look just as fresh after a year in storage as they did the day you put them in.

San Diego, CA RV and Boat StorageView Hide

San Diego RV and Boat Storage

There are few places more #CaliforniaLove than the state’s birthplace. Sunny, sandy and almost impossibly beautiful, San Diego is a destination where bathing suits are encouraged and happy hour is on the beach. Even better? It’s totally RV and boat friendly. If you’ve got one (or both), it’s natural to only focus on the fun times you have using it. But you’ve got to keep it somewhere when you’re not having fun in the sun. For city dwellers like you, that “somewhere” often doesn’t include your driveway, street parking or the lot outside of you apartment. That’s where RV and boat storage comes in.

Stiff Competition

If you’ve read our general article on storage in San Diego, then you already know this one. Storage space is tight in San Diego, and the more in demand a unit size or location is, the more it costs. This sums up the state of RV and boat storage in San Diego pretty well too. When you’re searching for RV and boat storage in San Diego, make sure to choose a few different facilities that you like rather than just one. You probably already know what most people see as the main factor in choosing a storage facility: location. The second and third most important factors? Location and location. With that being said, we know it’s counterintuitive to suggest you rent several miles away from where you live, but with the relatively low availability of RV and boat storage in San Diego, it pays to be flexible. Why not store where you vacation instead? San Diego has a wealth of RV parks that are right on or near the beach which make for great camping destinations or boat launching spots. If you’re into swimming, boating, dog friendly folks and Sea World, you can bring your boat, RV or both to Campland on the Bay. Storage can be found less than a mile away at S.D. Storage. This facility offers 24 hour cameras, personalized entry codes and even some unique features like on-site recycling for electronics and used clothing. Plus, they offer one month free on select units. If your least favorite part of owning an RV or boat in San Diego is navigating it around the city, consider spending your next long weekend at San Diego RV Resort and storing your RV or boat less than a mile away at the very well-reviewed A-1 Self Storage. After you pick up your RV from the facility, you can park it at the RV park which sits right on the San Diego Trolley line. That means that you can relax all day and then head to Old Town for happy hour and a meal without ever having to deal with driving your RV.

Keep Your RV Fresh in Storage

We in the storage business always get a little bit nervous when it comes to putting anything in storage in a climate with damp, salty air. This is something you’ll want to address with any type of storage, but when it comes to storing your RV or boat you’re going to be addressing it a little bit differently. First of all, remember that RV and boat storage means something different to everyone, including storage facility managers. This type of storage can range from a simple parking lot to a private, enclosed unit. The more simple type of storage is easier to find in San Diego (and in most places) and is always the cheapest. Since this is what you’ll most likely be opting for when it comes to storing your RV or boat, take care to thoroughly clean the inside and outside of the vehicle. Double check the fridge and cabinets for perishable items, and if you have non-perishable items, ask your facility manager about charities that they partner with. Many storage facilities have boxes that they use to collect canned goods or other items in order to benefit homeless shelters. If it’s possible to remove soft items (like seat cushions) from your RV or boat, do so as these are more likely to absorb moisture from the air and suffer damage. Be wary of leaving anything metal that can rust inside your RV, and last but not least consider leaving open containers of baking soda throughout the inside of the vehicle in order to absorb moisture. These tips are also great to keep in mind if you’re ever crazy enough to leave California for somewhere cooler, as winterizing your RV is probably a foreign concept to you.

Safe and Sound in Storage

Many storage facilities in San Diego offer multi-level storage units that can be accessed by elevator. This type of storage is awesome because it’s much more secure, but it doesn’t exactly help you if you’re storing an RV or boat. Because most RV and boat storage is out in the open, you’ll want to take extra precautions when considering the security features that your storage facility offers. Look for fences that actually look like they can keep people out along with key-coded gates that only allow tenants and staff inside. Don’t be afraid to ask your facility manager a little more about that code. For example, does every tenant have their own code? If not, how often is this code changed? A lot of crime on storage facility properties comes from within, so it’s useful to know whether or not previous tenants still potentially have access to the property. Other features to look for are 24 hour cameras, good lighting and most importantly, a manager and team that cares about the security of your RV or boat just as much as you do.

1 of 6