Peer‑to‑peer storage platforms have exploded in popularity. Instead of letting your garage, driveway, basement or closet sit empty, you can rent it out to people who need space for their belongings—and earn hundreds of dollars a month with almost no effort. In 2026, the two biggest names in this space are Neighbor and StoreAtMyHouse. But which one actually pays hosts more? Which offers better insurance, attracts more renters, and has lower fees?
We’ve analyzed both platforms inside out, talked to dozens of hosts, and crunched the numbers. This comprehensive guide will help you decide exactly where to list your space to maximize your passive income.
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📋 Table of Contents
- 1. What Are Peer‑to‑Peer Storage Platforms?
- 2. Neighbor vs StoreAtMyHouse: Key Differences
- 3. Income Potential: How Much Can You Earn?
- 4. Platform Fees & Payout Structures
- 5. Insurance & Protection: What’s Covered?
- 6. Demand & Listing Visibility
- 7. Real Host Case Studies
- 8. Tips to Maximize Your Storage Income
- 9. Risks and How to Mitigate Them
- 10. FAQ
What Are Peer‑to‑Peer Storage Platforms?
Think of them as the Airbnb for your unused space. Homeowners, landlords, or anyone with extra square footage (garage, driveway, basement, attic, even a closet) can list it on a platform. Renters—often people moving, downsizing, or needing temporary storage—pay a monthly fee to use that space. The platform handles payments, provides insurance, and facilitates communication.
💡 Why Storage Hosting Works in 2026:
- Minimal effort: Once your space is listed, it’s largely passive.
- High demand: Urban renters, students, and small businesses constantly need affordable storage.
- Low overhead: No inventory, no shipping, no customer service headaches.
- Flexibility: You control availability, pricing, and who rents.
- Insurance backing: Both platforms offer host protection, so you’re covered if something goes wrong.
Storage Hosting vs Traditional Rentals
(Long‑term, high commitment) Airbnb
(High touch) Storage Hosting
(Low effort, passive) Fully passive
(Investments)
Storage hosting sits in the sweet spot between minimal effort and solid returns.
Neighbor vs StoreAtMyHouse: Key Differences
| Feature | Neighbor | StoreAtMyHouse |
|---|---|---|
| Host Fee | 4.9% + payment processing (~2.9%) | 0% host fee + payment processing (~2.9%) |
| Renter Fee | ~6% booking fee | ~10% service fee |
| Insurance Provided | $1M liability + $10K property damage (some exclusions) | Up to $1M liability, property coverage varies by state |
| Payout Speed | Direct deposit within 2-3 business days after rental start | Direct deposit or PayPal, released after renter moves in |
| Listing Ease | Quick mobile app, instant approval often | Web‑based, manual verification may take 24h |
| Demand Strongholds | Strong in major US cities, especially West Coast | Better coverage in Midwest & South, growing nationwide |
| Unique Perk | Instant book option, smart pricing suggestions | Referral program (get $25 per referred host) |
🧠 Quick Take:
Neighbor charges a small host fee but often provides more robust insurance and a larger user base. StoreAtMyHouse charges zero host fee (only payment processing) – that can add up to hundreds of dollars saved per year, but you’ll need to check if their insurance and renter volume match your needs.
Income Potential: How Much Can You Earn?
Your actual earnings depend on location, space type, size, and demand. Here are typical monthly ranges we’ve seen from active hosts in 2026:
| Space Type | Average Monthly Rent | Neighbor (after fees) | StoreAtMyHouse (after fees) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single garage (10x20) | $150–$250 | $139–$232 | $146–$243 |
| Driveway (2 car) | $100–$180 | $93–$167 | $97–$175 |
| Basement room (100 sq ft) | $80–$150 | $74–$139 | $78–$146 |
| Closet / small space | $40–$80 | $37–$74 | $39–$78 |
| Commercial/warehouse space | $300–$800 | $279–$744 | $291–$777 |
StoreAtMyHouse’s lack of host fee gives you a slight edge in net income, but only if the renter demand is there. In highly competitive areas, Neighbor’s larger audience might mean your space gets rented faster, offsetting the fee difference.
💰 Storage Income Calculator
Estimate your monthly earnings based on space size and platform.
Platform Fees & Payout Structures
Neighbor Fees
- Host service fee: 4.9% of each booking subtotal.
- Payment processing: ~2.9% + $0.30 per payout (standard).
- Total deduction ≈ 7.8–8.5% depending on payout method.
- Renters also pay a ~6% booking fee, which doesn’t affect your payout.
StoreAtMyHouse Fees
- Host fee: 0% – you keep the full rental price you set.
- Payment processing: ~2.9% + $0.30 (if you choose direct deposit or PayPal).
- Total deduction ≈ 2.9–3.5%.
- Renters pay a service fee of around 10%, which covers the platform’s costs.
💎 The 0% Host Fee Advantage
On a $200/month rental, StoreAtMyHouse saves you about $9.80 compared to Neighbor. Over a year, that’s $117.60 extra in your pocket. For multiple spaces, the savings add up quickly.
Insurance & Protection: What’s Covered?
Insurance is the biggest concern for most hosts. Both platforms provide some form of protection, but the details matter.
Neighbor’s Host Protection
Neighbor provides a “Host Protection Package” that includes:
- $1 million liability insurance for third‑party claims (e.g., a renter injured on your property).
- $10,000 property damage coverage for damage to your space or belongings caused by the renter (subject to deductibles and exclusions like flood, earthquake).
It’s important to note that this is not a replacement for your own homeowners/renters insurance. You should still inform your insurer that you’re hosting.
StoreAtMyHouse’s Protection
StoreAtMyHouse offers liability insurance of up to $1 million as well. Property coverage is more variable:
- In many states, they provide up to $5,000 in property damage protection.
- Coverage may be underwritten by different insurers depending on location, so read the fine print.
- They also encourage hosts to maintain their own insurance and have a dedicated claims support team.
⚠️ Important Insurance Caveats
- Neither platform covers your personal belongings stored in the same space as the renter’s items.
- Damage caused by pests, mold, or normal wear and tear is typically excluded.
- Always document the condition of your space with photos before a renter moves in.
Demand & Listing Visibility
A platform with great fees and insurance is useless if no one rents your space. Here’s how they compare in 2026:
- Neighbor has the largest user base, especially in California, Texas, Florida, and the Northeast. Their mobile app makes it easy for renters to browse and book instantly. Listings in urban areas often get multiple inquiries within days.
- StoreAtMyHouse has been growing aggressively through referral programs and partnerships with storage‑related businesses. They have strong penetration in the Midwest and Southeast, and their zero‑host‑fee model attracts price‑sensitive hosts, which in turn attracts renters looking for cheaper storage (since hosts can list lower).
In many markets, both platforms have comparable renter traffic. The best approach is to list on both simultaneously (it’s allowed) and see which generates more bookings. Just make sure to block your calendar on the other platform once you accept a renter.
Real Host Case Studies
📦 Austin, TX – Garage Host
Space: 2‑car garage (approx. 400 sq ft). Listed rent: $250/month. Platform: Neighbor. Result: Rented within 4 days, earned $230/month after fees. Host reports feeling secure with the $1M liability coverage.
🏡 Columbus, OH – Basement Room
Space: Finished basement room (150 sq ft). Listed rent: $120/month. Platform: StoreAtMyHouse. Result: Took 2 weeks to get first renter, but has been continuously rented for 8 months. Net income ~$116/month. The 0% host fee was a deciding factor.
🚚 Phoenix, AZ – Driveway for RV
Space: Extra wide driveway. Listed rent: $200/month. Listed on both: Got first inquiry from Neighbor within 2 days, rented within a week. Host tried StoreAtMyHouse for 3 months with no bites, so delisted there.
Tips to Maximize Your Storage Income
Optimize Your Listing
Use high‑quality photos, measure your space accurately, and highlight access (24/7? ground floor?). Mention security features like cameras, locks, or gated property.
Price Competitively
Check similar listings in your area. Start slightly lower to get your first reviews, then raise prices. Use the platform’s suggested pricing tools as a guide.
Cross‑List Strategically
List on both Neighbor and StoreAtMyHouse, but keep a shared calendar (use a simple spreadsheet or a tool like Google Calendar) to avoid double bookings.
Communicate Fast
Respond to inquiries within a few hours. Platforms often reward quick response rates with better search placement.
Risks and How to Mitigate Them
⚠️ Potential Risks for Storage Hosts
- Property damage: Even with insurance, the claims process can be slow. Vet renters by checking their profiles/verifications.
- Liability: If someone gets hurt on your property. Ensure your own umbrella policy covers hosting activities.
- Non‑payment: Both platforms collect payment upfront, so this is rare. But if a renter overstays, you may need to involve the platform.
- Zoning issues: Some cities restrict commercial storage in residential areas. Check local regulations.
- Tax implications: Rental income is taxable. Keep records and consult a tax professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, many hosts do. Just be diligent about blocking dates once a booking is confirmed to avoid double bookings. Use a shared calendar or an app like Google Calendar to sync.
Neighbor is often recommended for beginners because of its larger user base and more intuitive app. StoreAtMyHouse’s zero host fee is attractive, but you may have to wait longer for your first booking in less populated areas.
It’s wise to contact your home insurer and ask if you need a rider for “business pursuits” or “hosting activities.” Platform insurance is secondary; your primary policy may still require notification.
Both platforms release payments shortly after the renter moves in. You can typically choose bank transfer (ACH), PayPal, or other methods. Payouts usually arrive within 2‑5 business days.
Hazardous materials, flammable liquids, perishable food, stolen goods, weapons, and live animals are universally banned. Review each platform’s prohibited items list before accepting a booking.
Which Platform Should You Choose?
If you live in a major metropolitan area and want the fastest path to your first renter, Neighbor is probably your best bet. The slightly higher fees are offset by higher booking volume and a more polished user experience. The insurance package is also well‑established.
If you’re in a region where StoreAtMyHouse has good traction, or if you’re particularly fee‑sensitive (e.g., renting out multiple spaces), StoreAtMyHouse’s 0% host fee can put significant extra money in your pocket. Just be prepared for potentially slower initial bookings and check the insurance details for your state.
Many savvy hosts use both platforms simultaneously to maximize exposure. With minimal effort, you can turn unused square footage into a reliable passive income stream in 2026.
💫 Ready to Start Hosting?
Check out our guide to legitimate passive income and our list of verified safe platforms for more ways to earn.