Complete Cost Breakdown for Building 100 Storage Units
The self-storage industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in commercial real estate, attracting investors and entrepreneurs alike. But before you break ground, it’s important to understand the average cost to build storage units—especially if you’re planning a 100-unit facility. This guide breaks down expenses, construction considerations, and how to plan your budget effectively.
1. Why 100 Storage Units is a Popular Choice
A 100-unit storage facility strikes a balance between operational efficiency and manageable startup costs. It’s large enough to generate consistent revenue but small enough to be built without the massive overhead of a multi-story complex.
2. Key Factors Influencing the Average Cost to Build Storage Units
Several variables can significantly affect your budget:
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Location – Land prices vary widely between urban and rural areas.
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Building type – Single-story metal construction is cheaper than multi-level climate-controlled units.
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Unit sizes – A mix of small and large units changes total square footage and costs.
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Site preparation – Grading, drainage, and utility installation can add thousands.
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Security features – Cameras, gates, lighting, and alarms are essential for customer trust.
3. Average Cost Estimates for 100 Storage Units
The average cost to build storage units ranges between $25 and $75 per square foot depending on features and materials. For a 100-unit facility, let’s assume:
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Average unit size: 100 sq. ft.
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Total square footage: 10,000 sq. ft.
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Cost per square foot: $25–$75
This gives a construction-only range of $250,000 to $750,000.
Climate-Controlled vs. Non-Climate-Controlled
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Non-climate-controlled: $25–$35 per sq. ft.
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Climate-controlled: $60–$75 per sq. ft.
4. Additional Expenses Beyond Construction
Building the facility is only part of the equation. Other costs include:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Land acquisition | $100,000 – $500,000 |
| Permits & legal fees | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Site preparation | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Security systems | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Marketing & signage | $5,000 – $15,000 |
With all factors included, a 100-unit facility may cost between $600,000 and $1.3 million to build and launch.
5. How to Keep Costs Under Control
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Choose cost-effective land in a growing but less expensive area.
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Optimize design to maximize rentable space.
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Build in phases to spread out investment and reduce upfront costs.
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Leverage prefab construction for speed and savings.
Final Thoughts
The average cost to build storage units for a 100-unit facility depends heavily on location, design, and amenities. By planning carefully, choosing the right mix of features, and monitoring expenses, you can turn your storage facility into a profitable long-term investment.
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