The Cost of Self Storage in Tacoma, WA
With the cost of storage units closely tied to the cost of housing in a given area, it’s no surprise that estimated self storage prices in Tacoma can be higher than both the state and national average. Due to being part of the Seattle metro area, Tacoma is a popular place of residence for local professionals and University of Washington students. This makes housing one of the primary factors causing its overall cost of living to rank above the average. Although you may find quotes for storage space in Tacoma that are $10-$15 more than similarly sized cities elsewhere in Washington, keeping an eye out for seasonal discounts or special pricing offers can help you get the best deal in town.
Average cost of storage units in Tacoma, WA compared to state and national averages
| Size of Storage Unit | City Average | State Average | National Average |
| 5×5 | $64 | $56 | $41 |
| 5×10 | $90 | $78 | $59 |
| 10×10 | $145 | $131 | $95 |
| 10×15 | $143 | $162 | $113 |
| 10×20 | $222 | $172 | $133 |
What to Consider when Looking for Storage in Tacoma, WA
To determine what you should look for in a storage unit, think about the items you need to store and for how long you plan to store them. With an ocean to the west and the Cascade mountain range to the east, Tacoma residents experience a classic Pacific Northwestern climate that includes frequent rainfall and significantly fewer days of sunshine than the national average. Climate-controlled storage units are your best option if you’re storing items that could develop mold or deteriorate when exposed to cool, damp weather regularly.
An area’s crime rate can also play a major role in deciding what to store and where to store it. For property crime, Best Places scores Tacoma at 85.2 on a scale of 1-100, where 100 is considered a high crime risk location. You can prevent your belongings from theft by looking for storage units that offer security features like 24/7 monitoring and full-time, on-site property managers.
Helpful Tips for Moving to Tacoma, WA
Tacoma’s summer months see the least amount of rain compared to the rest of the year, so planning a move in June, July or August will be easier than other months where precipitation is more common. Although it does snow in Tacoma, it’s infrequent and usually isolated to a few days between December through February.
An overwhelming majority of Tacoma residents depend on their own car for transportation in and around the city, but the resulting 28-minute average for a one-way commute isn’t much longer than the national 26-minute average for the same. If you need to travel between your storage unit, work and home often, pick the one that’s located close to where you live to cut down on the time you spend in traffic. agers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a storage unit in Tacoma, WA?
The cost of self-storage in Tacoma depends on the unit size, amenities, and location. The average price ranges from $64 for a 5’x5’ unit to $222 for a 10’x20’ unit. Prices are higher than state and national averages due to the high cost of living, which is 22.7% above the U.S. average. Tacoma is also home to a large student population. When students return home for the summer, they need space to store their belongings, increasing demand for storage units.
Is climate-controlled self-storage necessary in Tacoma, WA?
While Tacoma has a mild temperature year-round, the city experiences substantial rainfall that puts your belongings at risk of mold, mildew, and water damage. Consider a climate-controlled unit to ensure the items in your self-storage unit are safe from environmental damage. With temperature and humidity control, vulnerable items like documents, artwork, and furniture are protected against heavy rainfall and humidity.
How to get cheap storage units in Tacoma, WA?
The best way to find budget-friendly storage units in Tacoma is to compare prices from nearby facilities. If you’re flexible on location, you’ll likely find reduced rates at facilities outside the city’s more populated areas. It’s common for businesses to offer promotions, seasonal discounts, and referral programs that can significantly reduce your monthly fees. You can also save by cutting back on amenities like advanced safety features and climate control.
What size storage unit do I need?
Consider the belongings you plan to store to determine your required storage unit size. Calculate the square footage necessary to comfortably store your items, with enough room to move throughout the unit. Most facilities offer units with enough room to store anywhere from the belongings of a large closet to a five-bedroom house. If you’re unsure which size to choose, round up to ensure you have enough room for all your items.
Are storage units safe?
While almost all self-storage units feature basic safety features like gates and locks, your belongings are still at risk of theft and burglary. With Tacoma’s extremely high property crime rate of 85.2, finding a storage facility with advanced security amenities such as video surveillance, security guards, and alarm systems is essential. You can also purchase self-storage insurance for financial protection if your items are stolen.
