What Size Storage Unit Do You Need for a Studio Apartment?
Most studio apartment renters only need a 5×5 or 5×10 storage unit, depending on how much furniture, seasonal gear, or lifestyle equipment they want to store. Figuring out the best storage unit size for a studio apartment also depends on your floor plan and whether or not you need to take an outdoor storage closet into account. Generally, studio apartment sizes are getting smaller. Today, the average studio size is approximately 500 square feet, and is even smaller in big cities. In fact, micro-units can dip below 300 square feet, especially in these high-cost urban areas.
To make the most of every square foot, you can choose multi-functional (or “transformer”) furniture, like pull-out couches, storage ottomans, and beds with built-in drawers. These hidden storage solutions help keep everyday essentials accessible—but they don’t always solve the problem of storing everything you need throughout the year.
That’s where a storage unit can make studio living feel more manageable, giving you much-needed space without forcing you to pay more per square foot for a larger apartment. Follow our guide to learn more about how to choose the right storage solution for your studio apartment and lifestyle.
Choosing the Right Storage Unit Size for a Studio Apartment
When you’re living small, every square foot matters—and choosing the right storage unit can make your studio apartment more functional. These two popular unit sizes, 5’x5’ and 5’x10’, are ideal for temporarily storing furniture, seasonal items, or overflow belongings without paying for more space than you actually need. If you’re between moves, you can store your entire studio apartment in either of the following unit sizes. How much you plan to access your belongings will help determine which size will work best for your situation.
5’x5’ Storage Unit
A small, 5’x5’ storage unit gives you 25 square feet of floor space or 200 cubic feet, roughly the size of a small walk-in closet. Your local storage facility may also offer 7’x5’ storage unit sizes, which provide more room to create a pathway between boxes in case you need frequent access to your items. 5x5 units are ideal for outdoor gear, seasonal clothing, and extra items tucked away so your main living space isn’t cluttered. Here is a list of items to help you visualize what you can store in a 5’x5’ unit:
- Studio Apartment: Twin mattress stored vertically, bedframe, several moving boxes, small nightstand, and lamp or other small pieces of furniture.
- Personal Closet Storage : A 5’x5’ storage unit is perfect for stashing personal files, content creator equipment, and extra closet overflow.
- Seasonal Storage: Decorations for holidays like Christmas and Halloween, as well as bulky winter jackets, boots, skis, snowshoes, and snowboards . Or, rock climbing gear and scuba diving equipment.
- Office Storage: A 5’x5’ unit can accommodate several filing boxes, office supplies, and small equipment, like stacks of archived paperwork, a printer or scanner, and spare chairs. It’s ideal for small businesses needing to declutter.
If you only need to store a few items or need a small space to keep sports gear or hobby equipment safe while you travel, storage lockers are also a compact, affordable option.
5’x10’ Storage Unit
A 5’x10’ unit offers 50 square feet of floor space (400 cubic feet) and is similar in size to a large walk-in closet. If you’re moving, a 5’x10’ unit will give you some extra breathing room to access your items. This unit size is also ideal for urban renters who want a neat, clutter-free studio or if you’re a weekend adventurer who needs a secure space for expensive gear. Here is a list of items to help you visualize what you can store in a 5’x10’ unit:
- Studio Apartment: A full or queen mattress stored vertically, a bedframe, a small dresser, a compact sofa or chair, and several moving boxes.
- Seasonal & Recreation Storage: Bulky seasonal items like holiday decorations, patio chairs, small bicycles, or adventure gear such as camping bins, inflatable SUPs, and surfboards.
- Business Storage : Accommodates filing boxes, small shelving units, office supplies, inventory, and equipment, such as printers.
- Dorm Room or Small Apartment Storage: A 5’x10’ storage unit can hold the contents of a standard dorm room or small college apartment, including a bed, desk, mini fridge, bookcases, shelving, and boxed personal items.
In newer multifamily apartments, open-concept studio floor plans are more sought after. And with less wall space for bookcases, vertical storage, and hanging artwork, you can probably get by with a 5’x5’ storage unit when moving.
Who Is A Studio Apartment Best For?
A studio apartment is best for anyone with a busy, flexible lifestyle. For example, if you spend more time at the office, traveling, or socializing than staying at home. Or if you value minimalism, affordability, and low maintenance over extra square footage, a studio apartment makes a smart home base.
Studios are also ideal if you travel often. With less space to manage, you can leave town for a few days and return without a long to-do list waiting for you. Fewer rooms mean less cleaning and more time to focus on what’s next.
Why Small Storage Units Are Perfect for Small Spaces
Because space is limited, studios rarely leave room for extra furniture, outdoor gear, or bulky seasonal items. Most layouts combine living, sleeping, and dining areas into a single room. Some studios also include a small, standalone kitchen, while others incorporate a mini kitchen or kitchenette into the main living area. Every square foot matters.
A small storage unit lets you store the things you love but don’t need daily so your living space stays uncluttered and comfortable. This added flexibility is what really makes off-site storage work. You can use storage temporarily during a move or keep one year-round as your lifestyle evolves, making it easier to stay organized without upgrading to a larger (and more expensive) apartment.
Studio Apartment Storage That Fits Your Lifestyle
Moving isn’t just about boxes—it’s about fresh possibilities. StorQuest makes studio apartment storage simple with secure units, convenient access, and locations designed to fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re downsizing, moving, or just need breathing room, we’ll help keep your belongings safe so you can focus on what’s next. Find your local StorQuest today.