I’m a college student and when I first came to Extra Space Storage, they communicated with me about all their fees and what comes with storing with them. They’re very accommodating and will work with you to get the best rate that won’t break the bank!
Self Storage for College Students
Make more space in your dorm during the school year or as short-term summer storage while you're away from campus with Extra Space Storage. Storage units near campus fill up quickly—reserve yours soon to lock in the best student self storage rate!
- Month-to-Month Leases
- Online Payments
- Extended Access Hours
What Size Storage Unit Do College Students Need?
The most popular storage sizes for college students are small (storage lockers to 5x10) and medium-sized units (5x15 to 10x15).
Storage Unit Size | Best For | Average Monthly Unit Cost | What Fits | Box Capacity* |
Seasonal items or decor | $37 | Bedding, mini fridge, textbooks, small electronics, seasonal clothing | 5-20 small to medium boxes | |
Summer storage | $37 | Bedding, small appliances, electronics, seasonal clothing, small furniture set, desk | 20-25 medium boxes | |
In-between semesters | $62 | Mattress, small appliances, TV, TV stand, seasonal clothing, dorm furniture set, large desk | 30-50 medium boxes | |
Study abroad semester | $85 | Large appliances, bedroom furniture, kitchen table, small couch, TV, and TV stand, large desk | 75 medium boxes | |
Full dorm contents | $108 | Two sets of bedroom furniture, living room furniture, large appliances, TV and TV stand, couch, kitchen table, large desk | 100 medium boxes | |
Sharing with roommates | $149 | Multiple sets of bedroom furniture, living room furniture, large appliances, large couches, large desk, small vehicle | 110-150 medium boxes |
*Box capacity reflects the total number of boxes that fit in the unit when storing boxes only. Mixed loads with other items will reduce capacity.
Find Your Storage Unit Size
Follow these simple steps, and our AI-powered tool will find the right storage unit size for your items.
Upload Photos
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AI Analysis
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Review Items
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Unit Size Result
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How Much Does Student Storage Cost?
College storage unit prices can range from $37 average per month for a 5x5 storage unit to $149 average per month for a 10x15 storage unit. Total cost will vary depending on the location of your storage facility and available amenities. To rent affordable student storage, enter your city name below! Prices may increase during peak summer season—book before finals week in May to lock in your rate.
Get started by searching your location in the search bar.
Ways to Save on Local Student Storage
Split the Cost
Sharing a 10x10 storage unit with a friend or roommate rather than renting two separate 5x5 units can lead to more affordable student storage rates, and splitting the cost might make even more sense if you're sharing the furniture being stored.
Book Online
While Extra Space Storage doesn't have a specific student discount for storage units, you can still find plenty of self storage deals and online-exclusive discounts when you book your unit online in advance!
Move-In Specials & Seasonal Deals
Most Extra Space Storage facilities offer move-in specials like the first month free or first month half-off, plus added benefits like free moving trucks and carts. Contact your nearby storage facility manager to ask about cheap student storage today!
Reserve Early
Finding student storage at least two weeks in advance—especially during peak moving season—can help you compare prices and catch deals when they happen. But units in popular sizes and locations fill up fast, so reserve your college storage unit with Rapid Rental as soon as possible!
Select Amenities
As you add amenities like climate control, drive-up access, and vehicle storage, your storage rates will increase. Choosing only storage features you need and will use can help you save on self storage.
Expand Your Search
Downtown, city centers, and areas around universities are often where storage prices are highest because of the demand that comes with more people. Choosing storage facilities in less populated suburbs could help you find more affordable student storage.
Reasons to Use Student Self Storage
Have a small dorm room? Move all your items back and forth every summer? Plan to travel for a study abroad program? Here's how self storage for university students can make your life easier.
Lack of Space in Dorms
Though living on campus can be a fun college experience, dorm rooms are often tight with little to no storage space. And you may have to share with one or more roommates. If you're looking for ways to get more space during college, a storage unit can free up your room from items you use infrequently, like seasonal clothing and sporting equipment.
Summer Storage
Lugging everything from college to home and then back again in the fall can be a hassle—especially if you live out-of-state or in another country. Instead of overpacking your car, checking suitcases, paying shipping fees, or renting an expensive moving truck, college summer storage keeps all your belongings close to campus, so you don't have to worry about the moving process.
Traveling or Studying Abroad
Have a plan to keep your belongings safe while you're in a foreign country? Instead of packing everything up and moving it home, rent student self storage for as long as you're away. With month-to-month leases and enough space to accommodate all of your dorm room furniture and valuables, storage units are the perfect, secure, short-term storage for college students.
Off-Campus Housing Transitions
If you're moving from your dorm to an off-campus apartment or home, there may be a few weeks or months between your move-out date at the end of the school year and the move-in date at the beginning of your new lease. Renting temporary storage for college students can help you bridge these gaps without complicated lease requirements.
Internships & Gap Years
Taking time away from campus for work or a gap year doesn't mean you should have to stress about where your belongings stay. Temporary storage for college students is backed by advanced security measures, giving you peace of mind while you're gone, so you can focus on the experience ahead. With flexible, month-to-month leases, you only pay for the time you actually need.
Greek Life Storage
Between rush season, formals, themed socials, and fundraising events, Greek life comes with a lot of items. Self storage for students give fraternities and sororities a convenient, affordable place to keep decorations and event supplies out of the way until you need them. Stop crowding your house and rent a nearby storage unit to keep your chapter running smoothly all year long.
College Self Storage Guide
Whether you’re looking for more space inside of your dorm, getting ready to study abroad, or needing summer storage, Extra Space Storage can help! Find out which amenities are best for college students and which unit sizes can best serve your needs.
Common Items to Store in College Storage Units
Clothing & Bedding
Large duvets and quilts, sweaters, coats, boots, and winter gear are stored in summer, while swimsuits and even luggage can be stored when not in use.
Furniture
Store your desk, desk chair, bed frame, mattress, futon, kitchen table, and small dorm room or bedroom appliances like a mini fridge or coffee pot.
Electronics
Computer monitors, gaming equipment and consoles, TVs, and other small appliances are great choices for climate-controlled college storage.
Books & School Supplies
Old textbooks, desk supplies, and important student documents or old assignments you need to keep on hand are more reasons to rent student storage.
Recreational Equipment
Bicycles, scooters, camping gear, and sports equipment can be stored rather than taking up valuable space, especially if you share a dorm with roommates.
Kitchen Items
Keep your cookware, dishes, and small appliances like coffee makers and mixers safe in storage before you need them again in the next school year.
Considerations When Choosing a Student Storage Unit
Not all storage units are created equal—and the right one can make your college year a whole lot easier. Here's what to look for when narrowing down which self storage for students will work best for you.
Security Features
Every Extra Space Storage facility is well-lit, well-maintained, and has gated access and video surveillance, while select locations have on-site resident managers, secure access to your floor only, and other advanced security measures. Choose the facility and unit that'll give you the most peace of mind before graduation.
Flexible Access Hours
Standard extended access hours are from 6 am to 10 pm, but some facilities offer 24-hour storage units. If you want to be able to visit your storage unit any time, including on evenings and weekends after class, work, or when it's most convenient for you, finding a unit with around-the-clock access will be important.
Climate Control
Climate control maintains a storage environment between 55 and 80 degrees year-round, which can protect temperature-sensitive belongings from extreme heat and cold. If you plan to store delicate items like musical instruments, electronics, wood furniture, or paper documents, climate-controlled storage is highly recommended.
Drive-Up Access
Have a lot of large, heavy furniture to keep in your student storage unit? Our drive-up access self storage makes unloading and loading your items easier. With this convenient feature, you can pull up your car or moving truck to your unit for quick pick-ups and drop-offs. This added feature is best if you plan to visit your unit often.
Vehicle Storage
Don't leave your car or motorcycle unattended for long periods of time on the street or in parking lots and garages around campus. Select either indoor, outdoor, or covered vehicle storage options, for secure, affordable parking close to your university!
Lease Length
With month-to-month self storage leases and no long-term commitments, Extra Space Storage is a great option for temporary student storage that doesn't lock you into a long-term contract, so you only pay for exactly the time you need.
Convenient Location
If you want to access your student storage unit regularly, choosing a facility close to campus can save you plenty of time traveling there and back. Or a location closer to your internship or on a bus route if you don't have a vehicle might be more practical.
Moving Expenses
Rather than shipping or hauling all your belongings home in a rented moving truck, college storage is an affordable alternative that's also more convenient for busy students on a budget.
Why Choose Extra Space Storage?
Flexible, month-to-month leases with no long-term commitment
4,200+ convenient locations for college storage across 43 states
Support college students in more ways that self storage—annual scholarship program
Hear What Our Customers Have to Say
- Nyssa J.,St Charles, MOGoogle
- Josh M.,Columbus, OH
I was looking to rent a storage unit for the first time as a college student...I was greeted by staff who was very knowledgeable and sweet. She took the time to answer what questions I had. When I decided it was time to secure the unit, she guided me through the process. I can’t say enough about how personable, kind, and knowledgeable Extra Space Storage is.
Google - Sara D.,Towson, MD
Since I’m from out-of-state, Extra Space Storage helped me rent a unit for my college student moving out of a dorm over the summer. The staff was super helpful, organized, answered all my questions and got a unit for a low price. Would highly recommend this place!
Google - James M.,Palm Bay, FL
Great customer service. They were so helpful in setting up renting the right size storage unit. Renting for a short time for school break for our son in college. We will definitely rent from this location again for the next 3 years. Thank you Extra Space Storage team!
Google - Mira L.,State College, PA
After exploring many local storage options for my daughter who attends PSU, the staff at Extra Space Storage was by far the friendliest, had the exact size unit I was looking for, and gave me the best total price! They were super knowledgeable about the area and gave me excellent tips that will make our move-in go seamlessly when we come to help our daughter store her college dorm items later this spring.
Google
Reviews are authentic and provided by Extra Space Storage customers. Associated images are not of the actual persons providing the testimonial.
How to Rent College Storage
First-time renter? With Rapid Rental, you can secure your storage unit 100% online in minutes—no office visit needed. Same-day move-in and easy online payment available.
1. Reserve Your Unit Online
Select your unit, features and amenities, and move-in date. Fill out your contact info, sign your lease, and make your payment. Don't forget your student ID!
2. Order Packing Supplies
Purchase high-quality moving supplies to safely pack and move your belongings.
3. Pack Your Belongings & Load Your Unit
Measure large furniture in advance, label all boxes, and properly stack and organize your unit when you move in to maximize space.
4. Access Your Unit Anytime
Once you've completed the online Rapid Rental process, you'll receive your unit's access code to move in whenever it's convenient for you!
Student Moving & Storage Resources
First-Time Renter Resources
Scholarship Resources
Frequently Asked Questions About College Student Storage
Does Extra Space Storage offer a student discount?
While Extra Space Storage does not offer a student discount, we do often have move-in deals like your first month free and first month half-off, as well as seasonal promotions to make self storage for college students more affordable. Check with your local facility for more details.
Why does Extra Space Storage ask if I'm a student?
Some Extra Space Storage locations are designed with college students in mind, offering features and unit options that better fit student needs. Knowing your student status also helps us understand what unit sizes students prefer and how to improve the experience over time.
Do I need insurance for a college storage unit?
Yes, you must have an active insurance policy to rent a college storage unit. All belongings in your unit must be covered by the policy, and you'll need to provide proof of insurance to rent your unit. When renting your unit, you can choose Extra Space Storage's Customer Protection Plan (CPP), which is insurance specifically for your storage unit, or select renters insurance policies cover storage.
Can I share a storage unit with roommates?
Yes, you can share a storage unit with roommates, and it's often a smart move if you're storing shared furniture or have enough combined belongings to fill a larger unit and split the cost instead of renting separately. One person will be listed as the primary renter, but most facilities allow you to add roommates as authorized users on the agreement—so check with your facility on how many are allowed and what access they'll have. It's also worth drafting a simple personal agreement covering payments, insurance, rental duration, and a basic inventory of whose items are whose to avoid possible disputes.
What size storage unit do I need for a dorm room?
Anywhere from 5x5 to 10x15 is a good size storage unit for a dorm room, depending on the contents you plan to store from your living space. If you have a single-bedroom dorm, a 5x5 will be enough. If your dorm room has a bedroom and common area or you live with a roommate, it's a good idea to size up to a 10x10 or 10x15.
When should I rent summer storage for college?
You should reserve summer self storage for college students 2-4 weeks in advance, as it's a popular season for renting self storage and you may find there is limited inventory if you decide to rent closer to the end of the semester. At Extra Space Storage, you can rent a storage unit up to 14 days in advance.
How do I pack for summer storage?
As you pack up your dorm or apartment for the summer, start by cleaning and drying everything—stored dirt, odors, or moisture can cause damage over months. Use sturdy boxes, label them clearly, and group similar items together so unpacking in the fall is easy. Take extra care with fragile items, furniture, and any electronics. And if there's anything you might need over the summer—a lamp for your sublet, documents, off-season clothes—pack those last and keep them near the front of the unit.
Should I choose on-campus or off-campus storage?
Off-campus storage is often a better option for students due to better availability of storage unit sizes and more flexible access hours and lease term options. On-campus storage, in contrast, can be limited in availability in unit sizes as well as access hours.
What are shipping costs vs student storage costs?
Shipping costs for belongings are generally much higher than student storage costs. While student storage rates range from around $10 to $145 a month, shipping all the belongings that would fit in student storage (including furniture, clothing, appliances, books, and more) out of state or internationally can cost well over $1,000.
Does Extra Space Storage offer a scholarship for college students?
Yes, Extra Space Storage offers an annual college scholarship program to help support university students of all ages in their studies. The scholarship is open to undergraduate students, graduate students, and beyond. Learn more about eligibility and how to apply now!
