A Note from the Founder 03.31.2025

Zachary Urow April 22, 2025

Self Storage Demand Concentrated in the West and Urban Metros

  • 59 of the top 100 metros for self storage demand are in the West, led by Las
    Vegas, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City, driven by growth, downsizing, and high
    renter rates.
  • Urban areas like NYC, San Francisco, and Boston show strong demand due to
    limited space, high housing costs, and decluttering trends.
  • Younger, mobile populations, and e-commerce growth are turning storage into a
    lifestyle and business utility in both regions.

Storage Outlook Boosted by RV Shipments Up 6% in February

  • RV shipments increased 6% year over year in February, with over 60,000 units
    delivered so far in 2025, indicating a cautious industry recovery.
  • Towable RVs drove most of the growth, and 28 million Americans are planning
    RV trips this spring, reflecting renewed travel demand.
  • This upward trend points to stronger RV and boat storage demand as owners
    prepare for the warmer seasons, especially in high-traffic recreation markets.

Our Thoughts

  • Sustained demand in Western and urban metros highlights the need for welllocated facilities with flexible unit mixes and strong digital leasing
    infrastructure to serve highly mobile and space-constrained populations
  • The increase in RV shipments suggests operators should prepare for heightened
    seasonal interest in outdoor storage, with an opportunity to adjust pricing and
    occupancy strategies ahead of peak demand.