The Cost of Self Storage in Oakland, CA
In the heart of the San Francisco Bay, the cost of living tends to be much higher than the rest of California. Oakland is no exception, though it does have one of the lowest costs of living in the area. One of the greatest contributing factors to the cost of living here is housing costs. Home values in Oakland are more than four times the national average. Monthly rents also tend to be much higher here, averaging $3,000 monthly, more than double the national average.
Oakland has a personal income tax rate of 9.3%, as well as a sales tax of 9.3%. This can directly affect the cost of renting a storage unit, especially larger units that cost several hundreds of dollars a month. The cost of a small 5×5 storage unit averages $41 a month across the nation. California tends to cost more, with a state average of $52 monthly. In Oakland, the same size unit costs more than twice that at $106 a month on average. The largest 10×20 units have similar price differences when compared to the state and national rates, with a much higher average of $344.
Average cost of storage units in Oakland, CA compared to state and national averages
| Size of Storage Unit | City Average | State Average | National Average |
| 5×5 | $106 | $52 | $41 |
| 5×10 | $120 | $77 | $59 |
| 10×10 | $191 | $125 | $95 |
| 10×15 | $289.99 | $159 | $113 |
| 10×20 | $344 | $184 | $133 |
What to Consider when Looking for Storage in Oakland, CA
When searching for storage facilities in Oakland, keep in mind that this area has a high level of humidity during the summer months. Look for a climate-controlled storage facility that offers temperature and humidity regulation year-round to keep your belongings safe.
Another issue facing Oakland residents is the high crime rate. This area has an average violent crime rate of 75.5, which is over three times the national rate of 22.7. Property crime is more prevalent here and much higher than the national average, at a rate of 81.2. When searching for a storage facility, look for ways to ensure that you and your valuables will be kept safe. The halls and outside areas need to be well-lit and monitored by security cameras, and the entire facility should be surrounded by a steel gate. Storage unit renters should be granted exclusive access to this area with a key or code.
Helpful Tips for Moving to Oakland, CA
There are many reasons people move to Oakland, such as the gorgeous weather. The occasionally humid summer stays warm with highs of an average of 75 degrees, and winter averages 44 degrees. The local economy is another reason people love this area, with a thriving job market that is dominated by health care, science and education sector jobs. There are also many educational institutions here, including 139 public schools and 40 private schools.
The population here is quite dense, with 7,469 people per square mile. This is much higher than the national average of 85 people per square mile. Only 6.5% of the people here work from home, most of them commuting together to work. Half of the people here drive alone to work, and 21% take public transportation. Traffic tends to be heavier here than across the nation, with an average commute time of 31 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a storage unit in Oakland, CA?
The average monthly cost of self-storage in Oakland ranges from $106 for a 5’x5’ unit to $344 for a 10’x20’ unit. Prices are much higher than state and national averages. Renters pay anywhere from $61 to $211 more per month to rent a unit in Oakland compared to other areas in the country. The elevated prices result from the area’s extremely high cost of living, which is 95.5% higher than the U.S. average.
How to get cheap storage units in Oakland, CA?
To find budget-friendly storage units in Oakland, compare prices from local facilities. Many businesses offer discounts and seasonal promotions that can significantly reduce your monthly fees. You can also often cut costs by renting for an extended period or paying up-front for the entire term. If you’re flexible on location, look at facilities outside the city for lower rates.
What amenities are necessary for safe, secure self-storage in Oakland, CA?
Oakland has a high property crime rate of 81.2, more than double the U.S. average. Finding a storage facility with advanced safety features is crucial to protect your belongings. Look for those with security guards, video surveillance, and alarm systems to protect your belongings. You can also enhance your unit’s security by upgrading your lock, placing valuables at the back, and purchasing insurance.
Does my renter’s insurance cover storage units?
Most renters’ insurance policies include coverage for off-site items, such as those in self-storage units. The coverage is often capped at 10% of your standard rate but varies depending on your policy. If you have high-value items in your unit, purchasing additional self-storage insurance ensures complete protection. Many storage facilities offer insurance packages you can buy when renting a unit.
What size storage unit do I need?
To determine the storage unit size you require, list all the items you plan to store. Calculate the square footage needed to store these items with enough room to move around the unit. Facilities often offer units ranging from 50 to 300 square feet. If you’re in between sizes, it’s best to round up to allow enough room to fit your belongings.