The Cost of Self Storage in Knoxville, TN
More than 28,000 students attend the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, and many of them may wish to store extra items that don’t fit in the dorms or are only needed seasonally. Storage unit costs fluctuate based on the availability of units and the price of real estate in the area. Real estate costs become part of the facility’s operating budget, which gets factored into the price of storage units in Knoxville. In Knoxville, property values are higher than the state average but much lower than the national average. The cost to rent in the city, consequently, is lower than the state and national averages. Generally, renters save from $45-$49 per month by selecting a Knoxville storage facility.
Average cost of storage units in Knoxville, TN compared to state and national averages
| Size of Storage Unit | City Average | State Average | National Average |
| 5×5 | $37 | $63 | $41 |
| 5×10 | $51 | $77 | $59 |
| 10×10 | $77 | $104 | $95 |
| 10×15 | $95 | $144 | $113 |
| 10×20 | $118 | $149 | $133 |
What to Consider when Looking for Storage in Knoxville, TN
Knoxville is listed as a top 50 place to live by U.S. News , which gave the city high marks for value, and the low cost of storage in the area is a great example of this. Still, it’s a good idea to consider the items you plan to store to save the effort of moving them and to prevent filling up your unit with unwanted items. If you’re packing up items from your bedroom to move to a dorm or apartment, don’t take too many extraneous items along. If you’re moving to Knoxville with your family, discretionary packing is even more crucial.
Many storage facilities offer space calculators and examples on their websites that give you an idea of the cost associated with storing your belongings. For renters who wish to store clothes, furniture and other items sensitive to moisture and heat, a climate-controlled unit helps keep your electronics and other items safe from mold and mildew, especially during Knoxville’s toasty summers .
Property crime is approximately double the state and national rates. This affects the likelihood of theft and burglary, so site security should be a top priority. Fenced-in properties with video surveillance and on-site staff help ensure that your belongings won’t be stolen. For safety, choose well-lit storage rental facilities with courteous staff.
Helpful Tips for Moving to Knoxville, TN
Living in Knoxville gives residents access to natural beauty, such as the nearby Little River, and diverse cultural opportunities such as the zoo and vibrant downtown area. Major highways provide easy access to and from the city, but since 80% of the population drives to work, morning and evening rush hours can be brutal. Plan your arrival time wisely to avoid sitting in traffic with a truck full of furniture following days of moving preparations. With an average commute time of 20 minutes, normal driving conditions in Knoxville compare favorably to the national average of 26 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is self-storage in Knoxville, TN?
Self-storage rates in Knoxville are significantly below state and national averages, with monthly prices ranging from $37 for a 5’x5’ unit to $118 for a 10’x20’ unit. Compared to other cities in Tennessee, renters save an average of $26 to $49 per month by selecting a unit in Knoxville. The reduced rates are primarily due to the city’s low real estate prices, which directly impact the cost of self-storage.
Do I need a 24-hour storage unit in Knoxville, TN?
While most standard facilities have a set visiting schedule, 24-hour facilities offer around-the-clock access. If you work an irregular schedule or require flexible access to your belongings, a 24-hour unit provides the convenience of being able to visit any time, day or night. Since you may be visiting your storage unit at obscure hours, finding a 24-hour facility in a safe location with enhanced security measures is important.
Is climate-controlled self-storage necessary in Knoxville, TN?
Knoxville’s humid, subtropical climate makes finding a climate-controlled storage unit essential. With average summer temperatures reaching over 90 degrees, items such as electronics, artwork, and wooden furniture risk cracking, shrinking, or melting. Days of high humidity also make unprotected items susceptible to mold and mildew growth. To protect your belongings against environmental damage, look for a facility with complete temperature and humidity control.
What size storage unit do I need?
Your required storage unit size will depend on the items you plan to store. Create an inventory of all items you wish to put in self-storage and calculate the square footage required to comfortably store them with enough room to move around the unit. If you’re in between sizes, it’s best to round up to ensure you have room for your belongings.
Are storage units safe?
While most storage units have standard security features such as gates and locks, they are still susceptible to theft and burglary. With Knoxville’s high property crime rate of 81.5, it’s best to look for a self-storage unit with advanced safety measures, such as alarm systems, security guards, and video surveillance. You can also purchase self-storage insurance for financial protection if your items are stolen.
