The Cost of Self-Storage in Pittsburgh, PA
In Pittsburgh, the smaller the self-storage unit, the higher the rental cost compared to state and U.S. averages. However, a 10×10 storage unit is a deal at $78, which is less than the U.S. average price for a unit that size. Smaller units may be at a premium because of the demand from students at the three major universities in the Pittsburgh area, Carnegie Mellon, University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University. When choosing a storage facility, other things besides size should be considered. The presence of on-site staff, the ease of getting to stored items and the availability of 24-hour access are important considerations, and it may also be worth paying more to rent a space in a location closer to home.
The average cost of storage units in Pittsburgh compared to state and national averages
| Size of Storage Unit | City Average | State Average | National Average |
| 5×5 | $53 | $44 | $41 |
| 5×10 | $72 | $64 | $59 |
| 10×10 | $78 | $95 | $95 |
| 10×15 | $113 | $124 | $113 |
| 10×20 | $135 | $148 | $133 |
What to Consider When Looking for Storage in Pittsburgh, PA
Three major rivers wind through Pittsburgh, so one consideration when looking for a self-storage location is whether it’s on the best side of one of the many bridges in the city. Snowfall lasts 6 months a year, and Pittsburgh gets 9.1 inches of snow on average, so it’s also a good idea to find a storage location that offers indoor access.
Pittsburgh has its share of property crime, so a quality storage facility should include adequate protection from theft. More crime occurs in the city than in outlying areas, however, so a self-storage company on the outskirts of Pittsburgh would be safer, statistically. Some self-storage facilities are fenced, with vehicles only able to gain access to parking areas by entering a code. At the minimum, a self-storage company should employ on-site video surveillance and provide sufficient lighting on the premises.
Helpful Tips for Moving to Pittsburgh, PA
Flanked by national forests to the south and east and Lake Erie to the north, Pittsburgh is the meeting place of the Ohio, Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers. The city has dozens of urban and suburban neighborhoods, each with a unique character. For students, Squirrel Hill has access to bus lines that connect with downtown and major universities. The best location for commuting is probably the North Side with its convenient access to I-279.
Hershey, Pennsylvania, home to Hershey’s Chocolate World, is a 4-hour drive from Pittsburgh, and Lake Erie is a straight 2-hour drive north on I-79. One of the most attractive features of this thriving town is the low cost of homeownership. The median home price in Pittsburgh is $143,400, compared to $243,225 nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a storage unit in Pittsburgh, PA?
The average cost of self-storage in Pittsburgh ranges from $53 for a 5’x5’ unit to $135 for a 10’x20’ unit. The total cost depends on the unit size, location, and amenities. Pittsburgh prices are slightly above national averages, mainly due to the city’s large student population. As college and university students store their belongings for the summer, there is an increased demand for storage units.
How to get cheap storage units in Pittsburgh, PA?
The best way to find low-cost storage units in Pittsburgh is to compare prices from nearby facilities. Many businesses offer promotions and discounts that can significantly reduce your monthly fees. You can often cut costs by renting for a longer term, paying for the entire agreement up-front, and referring others to the facility. Consider selecting the smallest unit suitable for your belongings, as size is the most significant factor in pricing.
What amenities are necessary for safe, secure self-storage in Pittsburgh, PA?
With Pittsburgh’s higher-than-average property crime rate of 46.3, finding a storage facility with enhanced security amenities is essential. Most facilities offer standard safety features, such as locks, gates, and access control, but more measures may be needed to protect your belongings. Look for a facility that offers advanced amenities, including video surveillance, security guards, and alarm systems. You can also protect your items by renting an indoor unit, placing valuables at the back, and purchasing insurance.
Does my renter’s insurance cover storage units?
Most renters’ insurance policies cover items in a self-storage unit at a capped amount of 10% of your standard rate. For example, if your policy covers damage to household items up to $40,000, it will cover the items in self-storage up to $4,000. It may also not cover all types of damage, such as theft, mold, and mildew. To ensure complete protection of your belongings, you can purchase additional storage unit insurance from your current provider or a third party.
Can you sleep in a storage unit?
No, it’s against the law to sleep in a storage unit in Pennsylvania and every other U.S. state. Those caught staying in a unit may face fines, jail time, and termination of their rental agreement. Sleeping in a self-storage unit also presents serious health and safety concerns. Storage units are designed to hold belongings, not people, and do not have adequate sanitation or amenities for human habitation.
