Self Storage Prices in 2025: Insights from Latest UK Report

This page was last updated on 17 June 2025 with the latest official figures from the Self Storage Association Industry Report 2025.

Table of contents

1. How much is storage per month in the UK?
2. What factors affect self storage prices?
3. What shaped self storage in 2024?
4. How has the UK self storage market changed since last year?
5. What other self storage costs should I plan for?
6. Types of self storage options in the UK
7. Tips for saving money on self storage
8. How do I choose the right storage solution?

How much is storage per month in the UK?

In 2025, the average UK self storage cost is £29.13 per square foot annually, which works out to about £2.43 per square foot per month. This is a 6% increase from 2023. Actual prices vary by unit size, store type and region.

Average prices by storage unit size

• Smaller units (25 sq ft): £60 to £130 per month
• Medium units (50 sq ft): £130 to £220 per month
• Large units (100 sq ft): £220 to £400 per month
• Extra large units (200 to 300 sq ft): £400 to £600 or more per month

These price ranges come from the Self Storage Association UK Annual Industry Report 2025 and reflect typical national rental rates. Actual costs depend on factors like location, whether the unit is indoor or container-based, and local demand.

What factors affect self storage prices?

Storage location

Facilities closer to city centres, especially in London, usually have higher prices because of real estate costs. Prices often decrease in suburban or northern areas. Comparing rates across different locations can help you find the best deal.

Size of the storage unit

Self storage units vary in size, from small lockers to large units. Larger units are generally more cost-effective per square foot. Choosing the right size helps manage your costs.

Rental duration

The length of your rental agreement affects pricing. Short-term stays may benefit from promotions, such as 50% off for the first eight weeks. Long-term rentals often qualify for extra discounts.

Additional services and insurance

Services like enhanced security, climate control or insurance coverage can increase total costs. Always check your provider's insurance policy because the cost depends on the replacement value of your items.

Our partner HoldAssure increases liability cover for a small fee, without needing separate insurance.

Access hours and convenience

Facilities offering extended hours or 24/7 access may charge a higher fee for the added convenience. Consider how important flexible access is when choosing a facility.

HOLD provides 24-hour access with no hidden fees, which can help lower your overall costs.

Market competition

Prices are usually lower in areas with many storage providers because companies compete for customers. In areas with fewer providers, prices may be higher due to limited choice.

Despite high competition in London, storage stays more expensive on average because of high demand and property costs. HOLD offers a price match within three miles to ensure you get a competitive rate.

How has the UK self storage market changed since last year?

The UK self storage market stayed strong in 2024, showing steady demand, healthy occupancy and higher customer churn. Together, these trends reflect a more mobile, space-conscious population.

Key figures for 2025

• £29.13 average annual rate per square foot
• £2.43 average monthly rate per square foot
• 6% rate increase year on year
• 75.1% national occupancy rate
• 97% customer churn rate
• 14% annual rate increase in London

Sustainability is also gaining momentum. More storage facilities are installing energy-efficient systems, solar panels and using eco-friendly building materials.

HOLD is leading this shift and aims to be the first UK storage company to reach a BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ rating for environmental performance..

Average UK self storage prices by region

Storage prices in the UK can vary depending on your location, unit size, insurance, and any extra services you choose. The figures below are based on the SSA UK Annual Industry Report 2025 and have been adjusted to include VAT at 20 percent and a typical retail margin of 15 to 20 percent.

These are average prices to help you plan your budget and avoid unexpected costs. Your actual storage costs may differ.

London: £39.04 annually (£3.25 monthly)

South East: £33.90 annually (£2.83 monthly)

East of England: £30.80 annually (£2.57 monthly)

South West: £30.47 annually (£2.54 monthly)

North West: £29.15 annually (£2.43 monthly)

East Midlands: £28.57 annually (£2.38 monthly)

Yorkshire & Humber: £27.64 annually (£2.30 monthly)

Scotland: £26.33 annually (£2.19 monthly)

North East: £25.75 annually (£2.15 monthly)

West Midlands & Wales: £25.38 annually (£2.12 monthly)

The North of England

• 25 sq ft: £14.13 per week, £61.20 per month
• 35 sq ft: £19.78 per week, £85.68 per month
• 50 sq ft: £28.26 per week, £122.40 per month
• 75 sq ft: £42.39 per week, £183.60 per month

The North experienced an increase of 5.5 percent, which is in line with national inflation trends. The cost of self storage in cities such as Manchester, Leeds, and Liverpool remains moderate compared to the rest of the UK.

Scotland (including Edinburgh and Glasgow)

• 25 sq ft: £16.75 per week, £72.50 per month
• 35 sq ft: £23.45 per week, £101.50 per month
• 50 sq ft: £33.50 per week, £145.00 per month
• 75 sq ft: £50.25 per week, £217.50 per month

Scotland was the only region where storage providers saw a drop in average earnings per unit, down by 5.1 percent. This suggests that more discounts were offered in 2024, so while headline prices may not have decreased, many customers probably paid less overall.

Wales & West Midlands

• 25 sq ft: £16.12 per week, £69.80 per month
• 35 sq ft: £22.43 per week, £97.13 per month
• 50 sq ft: £32.25 per week, £139.60 per month
• 75 sq ft: £48.34 per week, £209.40 per month

Storage prices in the West Midlands and Wales rose by 4.1 percent over the last year, which is a modest increase compared to other parts of the UK. Although costs have risen slightly, the region still offers some of the most competitive self storage rates in 2025.

What other self storage costs should you plan for?

Average storage costs are helpful, but they are only part of the total expense. Several other costs can affect your final bill and will vary depending on how you use the unit.

When planning for self storage, always consider these common extra costs in addition to basic rent.

Insurance

Insurance protects your stored items against risks such as theft, fire, or damage. You can use the storage provider’s recommended insurer or arrange your own cover.

Always check that the policy matches the value of your belongings. Most self storage providers, including HOLD, offer convenient insurance options.

Deposit

Many storage companies require a deposit or an initial payment when you start renting. This is often the first few weeks’ rent or a full month, depending on the company’s policy. For example, HOLD’s deposit is one month’s rent for your chosen unit.

Transport and moving

Moving your items to the storage site can involve additional costs. You may need to hire a removals service, rent a van, or use your own vehicle. Some storage providers work with local transport partners to make this easier.

HOLD regularly works with trusted London removals companies and can coordinate with them on your behalf.

Packing materials

Proper packing helps protect your items and makes the best use of space. You may need boxes, bubble wrap, tape, and labels. Many storage companies sell high-quality packing materials.

HOLD’s online box shop offers everything you need, whether you are moving house or storing business inventory.

Securing your unit

Keeping your unit securely locked is essential. Some sites provide a lock, while others expect you to supply one. A sturdy padlock is a small cost that protects valuable belongings. HOLD sells reliable locks for this purpose.

Furniture storage costs

Storing furniture involves extra considerations. In addition to the base rent, factor in:

• Insurance, which depends on the value of your furniture
• Transportation costs to and from the facility
• A higher rate for climate-controlled units that protect furniture from humidity or temperature extremes. All HOLD sites are fully climate-secure to safeguard your items
• Packing materials like protective covers and padding

Always calculate these elements to understand the true cost of storing furniture securely.

Types of self storage options in the UK

When space is limited at home or at your business, storing items off-site can be a practical solution. Although using a garage, loft, or basement may seem convenient, these spaces can increase the risk of damage, loss, or theft. Excess belongings can also clutter valuable living or working areas.

Renting a self storage unit is one of the most common solutions, and there are various storage options available to suit different needs and budgets.

Indoor self storage

A look at the Inside of HOLD's London facility close to the city centre

This option involves secure, individual units within a larger warehouse. Protected by CCTV and alarm systems, these units are indoor, shielding your belongings from the weather.

Storage unit size ranged widely, accommodating everything from a few personal items to the contents of a 3 bedroom house. Features may include ground floor access for heavy items and shelving to maximise space.

What is indoor storage suitable for?

A wide variety of items, including furniture, electronics, and personal belongings that require protection from the elements.

Business storage

Business storage solutions offer flexible space for business growth and efficiency. These units do more than store goods; they scale with your company’s changing needs.

UK business self storage trends in 2025

• 27 percent of self storage customers are business users
• One third or more of total storage space is used by businesses
• 76 percent of business users operate entirely from their unit
• 28 percent use storage for goods distribution
• 8 percent use it during premises renovation
• 1 percent use it for archiving records

Business storage often includes dedicated loading bays, flexible leases, inventory management, and climate-secure space for sensitive goods. HOLD provides all of these plus parcel acceptance, mailbox rental, free WiFi, and dedicated work zones.

What is business storage suitable for?

Inventory, office equipment, archived documents, seasonal stock, tools, and commercial assets needing secure, scalable storage.

Container storage

Out of 2,915 self storage stores in the UK, 1,135 are predominantly container based. According to the 2025 report, container storage is now a significant and growing part of the self storage sector. It uses secure outdoor metal containers, which are well suited for larger, less delicate items.

Many sites provide regular access and enhanced security such as CCTV and perimeter fencing. However, because this type of storage is outdoors, it may not be suitable for items that are sensitive to temperature changes or moisture.

What is container storage suitable for?

Large items such as vehicles, outdoor equipment, and bulky furniture.

Collection and storage (Box storage)

This is a convenient service where the company provides boxes for you to pack, then collects them and stores them securely at their facility. Box storage works well if you rarely need to access your items, as retrieval requests can involve extra fees.

What is box storage suitable for?

Smaller items and belongings you do not need to access often.

Lockups

Lockups are smaller, garage like storage spaces found in residential areas and are often rented for shorter periods. While practical for storing items of lower value, security depends on the lock and door strength.

What are lockups suitable for?

Items of lower value or items that do not require strict security measures.

Removals depositories

These are secure indoor warehouse spaces offered by removal companies. They provide a place to store belongings during a home move. Access is typically limited and early retrieval may involve additional fees.

What are removals depositories suitable for?

Furniture and household items during moves, especially if home improvements are planned before moving in.

How do I choose the right storage solution?

Remember, selecting the proper storage involves more than just price. Think carefully about what matters most for your items.

• Size matters: First, think about how much stuff you have. A unit too small will be crammed, but too large, and you're wasting money. Use tools like HOLD's online unit size calculator. Alternatively, consult with your chosen facility to estimate the size you need.
  
• Accessibility: How often will you need to access your items? If frequent visits are planned, choose a facility that's close by and offers convenient access hours. Unlike most storage providers, HOLD offers 24/hr access for every self storage unit (upon request).
  
• Extra services: Some items require climate control, while others may need robust security measures. Decide which features are essential for your peace of mind and factor them into your decision.

By focusing on these aspects, you'll be able to find a storage unit that fits your budget and perfectly aligns with your needs.