The Cost of Self Storage in Queens, NY
The price of renting a storage unit is typically based on the population size and real estate prices in the area. Typically, storage costs in Queens are higher than in neighboring cities. Real estate prices in Queens reflect the price difference between the city’s average cost for storage compared to the national average. According to BestPlaces.net, the median home value in Queens is $603,000, compared to the U.S. average of $231,200.
Storage costs across New York are higher than in other states, on average, but Queens’ storage is easily two to three times more expensive than other places across the country. The price disparity only increases as the amount of space you need gets bigger. The large 10×20 sized units that can hold an entire house’s worth of belongings are easily three times more expensive in Queens than the national average. However, the cost for a small 5×5 storage locker is, on average, less expensive than the state and national averages.
Average price of storage units by size in Queens, NY
| Size of Storage Unit | City Average | State Average | National Average |
| 5×5 | $36 | $52 | $41 |
| 5×10 | $122 | $86 | $59 |
| 10×10 | $183 | $140 | $95 |
| 10×15 | $302 | $176 | $113 |
| 10×20 | $449 | $164 | $133 |
What to Consider when Looking for Storage in Queens, NY
When thinking about the best storage option for your stuff, consider the types of objects you’ll be putting away. When storing items like furniture, clothes and books, make sure to protect your valuables from the elements. As a coastal city, the cold New York winters and hot humid summers can be an issue. With an average of 46 inches of rain a year, Queens has more rain than the national average. It also rains here more often than other areas, averaging 120 days of precipitation every year.
The property crime rate in Queens is lower than the rest of the United States at 28 out of 100. To help protect your things from burglary, look for facilities with secure steel fencing and electronic gated access.
Helpful Tips for Moving to Queens, NY
Queens is a thriving cultural hub home to many economic opportunities as well as world-famous tourist attractions. There is a huge population here, with over 21,500 residents per square mile. This heavy population can create a traffic nightmare, so 51.7% of residents rely on public transportation to avoid gridlock. Those who do brave the traffic will experience a commute time that averages twice the length of the national average, at 43.6 minutes each way.
Queens has a high cost of living — it’s more than double the national average. Residents here pay a higher sales and income tax than the national average but enjoy a rich and diverse job market that makes up for the cost of living.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is self-storage in Queens, NY?
The average cost of a self-storage unit in Queens ranges from $36 for a 5’x5′ unit to $449 for a 10’x20′ unit. These rates are higher than the national average, mainly due to the area’s high cost of living and property values. The median home value in Queens is $748,200, compared to the national average of $338,100. With high property values, storage facilities face increased costs for space, leading to higher rates for self-storage units.
How to get cheap storage units in Queens, NY?
The best way to find a budget-friendly storage unit in Queens is to compare rates from local facilities. Many businesses offer discounts or seasonal promotions that help cut costs. You can also explore units in less-populated areas that tend to cost less. Other ways to make your self-storage unit more budget-friendly are minimizing amenities, opting for the smallest unit suitable for your needs, and renting for a longer term.
What amenities are necessary for safe, secure self-storage in Queens, NY?
While Queens has a relatively low property crime rate of 28, ensuring your storage unit has proper safety measures to protect your belongings is still necessary. Look for facilities in a safe location that have access control, gates, and adequate lighting. Many facilities offer enhanced safety measures, including alarm systems, video surveillance, and security guards. You can also protect your belongings by choosing an indoor unit, upgrading your lock, and purchasing insurance.
Can you sleep in a storage unit?
Sleeping in a storage unit is against the law in every U.S. state and violates health, sanitation, and safety codes. Self-storage is designed to hold belongings, not people, and does not have the proper conditions for human habitation. Staying in a self-storage unit puts you at risk of hypothermia, hyperthermia, and other environmental hazards. If you are caught, you can face fines, jail time, and termination of your lease.
Does my renter’s insurance cover storage units?
Many renter’s insurance policies cover the items in your storage unit at a reduced rate. For example, if your standard policy covers up to $30,000 of damages, the items in your unit are covered up to $3,000. These items may not be protected against all damages, such as mold, mildew, and water damage. You can purchase self-storage insurance for additional protection if you plan to store high-value items.
