Last Updated: February 2024
The self-storage industry has witnessed remarkable growth, becoming an essential part of the American lifestyle. This industry can be characterized by the availability of secure and accessible spaces for personal and business storage and caters to a variety of needs ranging from temporary storage during moves to long-term solutions for space management. The top five companies in this sector stand out due to their expansive networks, innovative storage solutions, and significant market presence.
Top 5 Self Storage Companies in the United States
Below we delve into the profiles of these top companies, exploring their history, services, and the role they play in shaping the self-storage industry in the United States. These industry leaders are ranked based on factors such as net rentable square feet and number of facilities, have set high standards in customer service and technological integration.
1. Public Storage
Public Storage Key Statistics:
- Square Footage: Over 200 million square feet of rentable space.
- Number of Locations: More than 2,800 properties.
- Geographical Area: Facilities across the United States.
- Amenities and Services: Climate-controlled units, vehicle storage, business storage, and various unit sizes.
Public Storage, founded in 1972, is a leader in the self-storage industry, known for its wide-reaching presence and diverse storage solutions. It’s one of the most recognizable brands in the sector, boasting a vast portfolio of properties across the United States. The company has consistently expanded its services, incorporating modern technologies and customer-friendly features. Public Storage has a strong reputation for reliability and accessibility in the storage market.
2. Extra Space Storage
Extra Space Storage Key Statistics:
- Square Footage: Over 200 million square feet.
- Number of Locations: More than 3,500 locations.
- Geographical Area: Facilities spread across the United States.
- Amenities and Services: Climate-controlled units, alarm-protected units, vehicle storage, business storage.
Extra Space Storage, established in 1977, has grown to be a key player in the self-storage industry, recognized for its customer-centric approach and advanced security measures. The company offers a wide range of storage solutions, catering to diverse customer needs. Extra Space Storage is known for its strategic growth and technological integration in facility management. Their focus on security and convenience has made them a preferred choice for many customers.
3. U-Haul
U-Haul Key Statistics:
- Square Footage: Over 70 million square feet of rentable space.
- Number of Locations: Over 1,800 self-storage facilities.
- Geographical Area: Across the U.S. and Canada.
- Amenities and Services: Climate-controlled units, alarm-protected units, vehicle storage, business storage, 24-hour access, online payments, and moving supplies.
U-Haul, established in 1945, is renowned for its moving truck rentals and has a substantial presence in the self-storage sector. They offer a comprehensive range of storage solutions, including climate-controlled units and specialty storage. U-Haul’s integration of storage with moving services provides a seamless experience for customers. The company’s facilities are equipped with advanced security features, enhancing customer trust and reliability.
4. CubeSmart
CubeSmart Key Statistics:
- Square Footage: Not specified.
- Number of Locations: Over 1,400 facilities nationwide.
- Geographical Area: Facilities across the United States.
- Amenities and Services: Climate-controlled units, vehicle storage, business storage, discounts for military, online rental options, and moving truck rental discounts.
CubeSmart, with its inception in the early 2000s, stands out in the self-storage industry for its affordable storage solutions and customer service excellence. The company emphasizes accessibility and convenience, offering a range of services tailored to diverse storage needs. CubeSmart is recognized for its innovative approach to self-storage, including partnerships that enhance the customer experience. They have steadily expanded their footprint, focusing on customer satisfaction and efficient self storage property management.
5. Life Storage
Life Storage Key Statistics:
- Square Footage: Over 50 million square feet.
- Number of Locations: 1,100+
- Geographical Area: Primarily in the eastern United States, with expansion to other regions.
- Amenities and Services: Climate-controlled units, advanced security features, online tours of facilities, vehicle storage, and a range of unit sizes.
Life Storage Inc., formerly known as Sovran Self Storage and Uncle Bob’s, has established itself as a major player in the self-storage industry with its innovative and technology-driven approach. The company offers a wide array of storage solutions and is known for its focus on customer convenience and modern facilities. Life Storage Inc. has expanded its presence significantly, demonstrating a commitment to quality and customer-centric services. Their use of technology, such as online facility tours, sets them apart in the industry.
Rating Methodology
Companies are ranked based on portfolio size. Any numerical figures are retrieved from publicly accessible materials, and believed to be accurate as of the last update of this page.
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Largest Self Storage Companies FAQ
Who are the Top 10 Self Storage Companies in the United States?
When investing in self storage real estate, it is important to understand who are the key players in the industry. The top 10 self storage companies range from large publicly traded corporations to smaller, yet influential, private entities.
Top 10 Self Storage Companies:
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What are Top Publicly Traded Self Storage Companies?
In the self-storage sector, several companies stand out not only for their market presence but also for their status as publicly traded entities. These companies are often part of real estate investment trusts (REITs), offering investors a chance to partake in the growing self-storage industry.
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How Do The 5 Largest Self Storage Companies Differentiate Themselves?
The largest self-storage rental real estate companies in the US set themselves apart through various strategies, including technological innovation, geographic reach, and service diversity.
| Company | Differentiating Factors |
| Public Storage | Extensive network, wide range of unit sizes, strong brand recognition |
| Extra Space Storage | Advanced security measures, strategic location spread, partnerships for moving services |
| U-Haul | Integrated moving and storage solutions, specialty storage options, widespread availability |
| CubeSmart | Customer-centric services, online rental options, moving truck rental discounts |
| Life Storage Inc. | Technological advancements (e.g., online tours), focus on eastern U.S. with expanding market reach |
What are Current Trends Influencing Self Storage Companies?
The growth of major self-storage companies is being influenced by several key trends. Technological advancements, such as digital booking, security systems, and self storage property management software are enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience. Urbanization and lifestyle changes, including downsizing and increased mobility, are driving demand for storage solutions. Additionally, economic factors like real estate market trends and changing consumer spending patterns are impacting storage needs. Finally, the increasing focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices is shaping facility operations and design in the self-storage industry.
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About the Author
Ryan Nelson
I’m an investor, real estate developer, and property manager with hands-on experience in all types of real estate from single family homes up to hundreds of thousands of square feet of commercial real estate. RentalRealEstate is my mission to create the ultimate real estate investor platform for expert resources, reviews and tools. Learn more about my story.