The Cost of Self Storage in Vancouver, WA
Self-storage units in Vancouver are priced fairly close to state averages. While 5×10 and 10×15 units in the city cost a little more than Washington’s average prices, 5×5, 10×10 and 10×20 units cost a little less. When compared with national averages, storage units in Vancouver and throughout the entire state cost more regardless of size.
In general, costs in New York are higher due to the state’s overall high cost of living. Although Buffalo’s cost of living is lower than the U.S. average, storage unit prices in the city tend to be closer to the state average. Storage costs in Buffalo are also impacted by the high number of colleges in the area. Demand for storage in college towns is high as many students prefer to store belongings rather than transport them home on summer breaks. This can drive up the price of storage units.
Average cost of storage units in Vancouver, WA compared to state and national averages
| Size of Storage Unit | City Average | State Average | National Average |
| 5×5 | $49 | $56 | $41 |
| 5×10 | $88 | $78 | $59 |
| 10×10 | $123 | $131 | $95 |
| 10×15 | $169 | $162 | $113 |
| 10×20 | $160 | $172 | $133 |
The high cost of living in the city is likely the reason behind the above-average storage costs in Vancouver. The city’s overall cost of living is nearly 25% higher than the average U.S. city, and that number is primarily influenced by high housing costs that are nearly 65% above that of the average U.S. city.
What to Consider when Looking for Storage in Vancouver. WA
Property crime rates in Vancouver are above average when compared to national data. When ranked on a scale of 1 to 100, where 100 represents high crime, the city’s crime rate is 46.6, which is more than 11 points higher than the U.S. average. To prevent becoming a victim of theft and vandalism, it’s important to find a facility that offers around-the-clock security and gated access.
The city’s climate is also an important consideration to make when shopping for a storage unit. In Vancouver, the climate tends to be wetter than average. The city gets an average of 42 inches of rain each year, which is four inches more than the national average. High precipitation levels, especially during the summer when temperatures are warmer, can result in high humidity levels. As such, many people find that it’s best to search for a climate-controlled storage unit.
Helpful Tips for Moving to Vancouver, WA
When moving to Vancouver, or any other city for that matter, it’s important to consider factors such as the city’s crime rates and cost of living, which are discussed above. It’s also best to consider the city’s job market. In Vancouver, the unemployment rate is 5.6%, which is nearly 2% higher than the U.S. average, while the city’s average household income is $55,593 — $2,059 below the U.S. average. Other important factors to research include education, healthcare facilities in the city and transportation. For example, the average commute time in Vancouver is only 25.2 minutes, which is 1.2 minutes less than the national average.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a storage unit in Vancouver, WA?
In Vancouver, the average cost of self-storage units ranges from $49 for a 5’x5’ unit to $160 for a 10’x20’ unit, with total cost depending on the facility, location, and unit size. The city’s prices are higher due to the cost of living — 22.8% higher than the national average. The area is also home to several colleges and universities, which drives demand for self-storage as students store their belongings when they leave for summer break.
Is climate-controlled self-storage necessary in Vancouver, WA?
Although Vancouver has a mild climate, the city experiences high humidity and excessive rainfall, averaging 42 inches of rain annually. Finding climate-controlled self-storage is essential to protect your belongings from mold, mildew, and bacteria growth. The risk of environmental damage increases the longer your items are stored, so look for a facility that offers temperature and humidity control for optimal protection.
What amenities are necessary for safe, secure self-storage in Vancouver, WA?
It’s essential to find self-storage with advanced safety amenities in Vancouver. With the city’s property crime rate of 46.6, items in self-storage are vulnerable to theft and vandalism. When searching for a unit, look for facilities that offer amenities such as guards, alarm systems, video surveillance, and access control. You can also protect your belongings by renting an indoor unit, hiding valuables at the back, and purchasing insurance.
Does my renter’s insurance cover storage units?
Most renters’ insurance policies cover the items in storage units at a capped rate of 10% of the original policy. For example, if your policy covers $30,000 worth of damaged items in your home, it will cover $3,000 in self-storage. Your renter’s insurance will likely be sufficient if your unit has low-value items; however, you should purchase additional storage unit insurance if you plan to store valuable belongings.
Can you sleep in a storage unit?
Sleeping in a storage unit is illegal in Washington and every other U.S. state. The consequences vary by location, but those caught risk substantial fines, jail time, and termination of their storage unit contract. Self-storage lacks the proper sanitation and safety measures required for human habitation. Staying in a unit puts you at risk of fire hazards, poor air quality, and illnesses such as hypothermia and hyperthermia.
