Quick answer
For the contents of a typical one bedroom apartment, many facilities suggest starting around a 10x10 unit, and a 5x10 can work if you are storing only part of your belongings. If you have a lot of furniture, bulky appliances or many boxes, a 10x15 gives more breathing room. These are rules of thumb, not guarantees. Furniture size, how tightly you pack and how much you want to access the unit all change the answer. Always confirm dimensions and recommendations with the facility.
Common unit sizes at a glance
Sizes are listed in feet (width by depth). Exact offerings differ by facility.
| Size | Rough comparison | Often suits |
|---|---|---|
| 5x5 | Small closet | Boxes, seasonal items, small furniture |
| 5x10 | Walk-in closet | Studio contents or part of a one bedroom |
| 10x10 | Large bedroom-sized space | Many one bedroom apartments |
| 10x15 | Larger bedroom or small room | A full one bedroom with extra furniture, or a two bedroom partly |
| 10x20 | One-car garage-sized | Larger households or bulky items |
What a one bedroom apartment usually contains
Think through each space and how much of it you are storing:
- Bedroom: bed frame, mattress, dresser, nightstands, clothes boxes
- Living room: sofa, chair, TV and stand, bookshelves, coffee table
- Kitchen and dining: small table and chairs, boxed dishes and appliances
- Other: bikes, a desk, rugs, lamps, decor and miscellaneous boxes
Not all of this has to go into storage. Many people keep daily essentials and store only the rest, which can mean a smaller unit.
Choosing between 10x10 and 10x15
A 10x10 is often enough if your furniture is average sized, you can disassemble a bed frame (see how to store a bed frame), and you stack boxes up to a safe height. It can feel tight if you want walking room to reach the back.
A 10x15 is worth considering if:
- You have a sectional sofa, large dining set or many bulky pieces
- You want a center aisle for easy access
- You plan to add items over time
- You are not sure and would prefer a bit of extra room
The extra space costs more each month, so weigh that against the hassle of an overfull unit. Our guide to packing a storage unit shows how smart loading can help a smaller unit go further.
When a smaller unit is enough
If you are decluttering, storing seasonal items, or living with a roommate who keeps their own furniture, a 5x5 or 5x10 may be plenty. Consider selling or donating items you would not miss. Paying to store low-value furniture for a long time often costs more than replacing it.
How to estimate your own size
- List everything you plan to store, room by room.
- Group items: large furniture, appliances, boxes, and awkward pieces.
- Estimate boxes. Count how many you expect to pack, using a consistent box size.
- Measure the biggest pieces (sofa, mattress, dresser) and check them against the unit’s width and door opening.
- Plan for an aisle if you will need access.
- Ask the facility to review your list. Many have sizing tools or staff who can advise.
If you land between two sizes, many people choose the larger one to avoid cramming, unless budget is tight.
How much will a 20x20 storage unit hold?
A 20x20 is a very large unit and is generally sized for a multi-bedroom home or a large amount of furniture and equipment. It is more than most one bedroom apartments need. If you are comparing it for a bigger household, see storage costs for a three bedroom house. Availability varies, and not every facility offers this size.
Is 650 square feet small for a one bedroom apartment?
A one bedroom apartment of around 650 square feet (compare it with a studio in studio vs 1 bedroom apartment) is within the range many renters see, and it is often described as average to compact depending on the area and layout. Because space is limited, an apartment of this size often has less built-in storage, which is one reason renters turn to units for off-season items.
Can you sleep in a storage unit during the day?
Storage facilities typically prohibit sleeping or living in units, and leases often say so. Units are not designed for habitation. If you need temporary housing, look at other options and check your lease and local rules.
Tips to avoid renting too big or too small
- Declutter before you decide on a size (tips for downsizing your home can help).
- Take photos of your furniture and measure large pieces.
- Ask about month-to-month terms so you can downsize later, if the facility allows it.
- Compare climate-controlled and standard units if you are storing electronics, wood furniture, or papers.
- Read through the wider benefits and drawbacks of self storage before committing.