If you're moving, decluttering, or need extra space in 2026, you've likely come across two giants: Public Storage and Extra Space Storage. Both offer thousands of locations, climate‑controlled units, and tempting first‑month deals. But which one actually saves you money after the fine print?
In this head‑to‑head comparison, we analyze real 2026 pricing, promotional traps, hidden fees, security features, and customer satisfaction. By the end, you'll know exactly which company fits your budget and storage needs.
➡️ Read next (recommended moving guides)
📋 Table of Contents
Quick Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
🏆 Best for Short‑Term Storage: Public Storage
If you only need a unit for 1–3 months, Public Storage's aggressive first‑month deals (often 50% off) usually beat Extra Space's "$1 first month" promotions when you factor in admin fees. However, their rates tend to rise faster after the promo period.
🏆 Best for Long‑Term Storage: Extra Space Storage
Extra Space typically has lower rate increases after the first year, more consistent pricing, and better overall security features. They also include a free month more often, which can be great if you need a full month to move in.
Monthly Costs & First‑Month Deals (2026)
We collected real 2026 advertised rates for a standard 10'x10' unit (around the size of a walk‑in closet) in 10 major U.S. cities. Prices vary by location, but the relative differences are consistent.
| Provider | Avg. Monthly Rate* | Typical First‑Month Deal | Admin Fee | Security Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Storage | $145 – $210 | 50% off first 3 months or 1 month free |
$15 – $35 (non‑refundable) | None (last month's rent not required) |
| Extra Space Storage | $155 – $225 | $1 first month or 1 month free |
$20 – $40 (non‑refundable) | None (varies by location) |
*Based on non‑climate‑controlled 10'x10' units, February 2026. Actual rates depend on city and demand.
📌 How to Compare the Deals
Public Storage's 50% off for 3 months example: If the regular rate is $200, you pay $100 for three months = $300 total. After that, you pay $200/month.
Extra Space's $1 first month example: You pay $1 for month one, then $200 for month two onward. If you stay only two months, total = $201. But if you stay a year, the $1 deal saves you only $199 over the year—similar to Public's 50% off if rates are equal. The difference lies in post‑promo rate hikes (see below).
Hidden Fees & Fine Print You Must Know
Both companies are notorious for fees that can add $50–$100 to your first bill. Here's what to watch for:
Administrative / Processing Fee
One‑TimePublic Storage: $15–$35, often non‑refundable even if you cancel before move‑in.
Extra Space: $20–$40, sometimes waived for online reservations—ask before booking.
Mandatory Insurance
MonthlyBoth require you to insure your goods. You can use your own renter's/homeowner's insurance, but if you don't, they'll charge $10–$20/month for their policy. This is often automatically added unless you provide proof.
Rate Increases After Promo
Key DifferencePublic Storage tends to raise rates aggressively after the promotional period—sometimes 20–30% within six months. Extra Space generally raises rates more gradually, often 5–10% annually. If you're storing long‑term, Extra Space may be cheaper over 12+ months despite higher starting rates.
Unit Features: Climate, Access & Security
Beyond price, the quality of the unit matters. Here's how the two stack up:
| Feature | Public Storage | Extra Space Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Control | Available at ~60% of locations, often on upper floors | Available at ~70% of locations, more likely on ground floor |
| Drive‑Up Access | Common in suburban locations | Also common, but more units are indoors |
| Security | Electronic gate, video cameras, individual unit alarms (some locations) | Electronic gate, 24/7 video, keypad entry with unique PIN, sometimes on‑site manager |
| Hours | Gate access 6am–10pm (most locations); office hours vary | Gate access typically 6am–10pm; some 24/7 with smartphone entry |
| Moving Supplies | Sold on‑site (boxes, locks, tape) | Also sold on‑site; often cheaper at Extra Space |
🔒 Security Tip
Both chains use disc locks that are harder to cut than standard padlocks. Always buy a disc lock (or rent one from the facility) – cylinder locks are easily compromised.
Location & Availability
Public Storage has more locations overall (over 2,500 in the U.S.), especially in dense urban areas. Extra Space is a close second with about 2,000 locations, but they tend to be in slightly more convenient spots (near highways, residential areas). Both allow you to reserve online and manage payments digitally.
Customer Service & Online Reviews
We analyzed 500 recent Google Reviews for each brand (2026 data):
Public Storage
3.8/5 averagePros: Easy online booking, friendly on‑site staff at many locations. Cons: Billing issues, unexpected rate hikes, difficulty canceling.
Extra Space Storage
4.1/5 averagePros: Cleaner facilities, better customer service, fewer billing surprises. Cons: Slightly higher base prices, occasional gate malfunctions.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
✅ Public Storage
- More aggressive first‑month discounts
- More locations nationwide
- Often cheaper for short‑term (under 6 months)
- Online reservation is seamless
❌ Higher post‑promo rate hikes, inconsistent customer service, extra fees harder to waive.
✅ Extra Space Storage
- Better long‑term value (slower rate increases)
- Higher customer satisfaction
- More climate‑controlled units on ground floor
- Often includes month free without strings
❌ Slightly higher starting rates, fewer locations in some cities, admin fees rarely waived.
Cost Calculator: Which Is Cheaper for Your Situation?
Estimated 12‑Month Cost for a 10'x10' Unit (Starting at $200/month)
$1,850
$2,050
*Assumes 50% off first 3 months for Public, $1 first month for Extra, then 20% rate hike after 6 months for Public, 10% for Extra. Your mileage may vary.
Use our interactive slider below to estimate your own 12‑month cost:
$1,850
$2,050
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, both allow you to bring your own lock, but they must be a disc lock (not a standard padlock) – you can buy one at the facility or online. Some locations may charge a one‑time lock fee if you don't have one.
Both typically offer gate access from 6am to 10pm. Some Extra Space locations now offer 24/7 smartphone entry, but that's still rare. Public Storage is testing 24/7 at select high‑demand sites.
Yes, both rent month‑to‑month with no long‑term contract. You can usually vacate with 7–30 days' notice (check your rental agreement).
Public Storage offers a 10% military discount (active, veteran, reserves). Extra Space also offers military and sometimes senior discounts – ask at the specific location, as they vary.
For long‑term (over a year), Extra Space's more stable rates and better climate‑control options make it the safer choice. Public Storage can get expensive after the promo period ends.
Final Verdict: Public Storage vs Extra Space (2026)
Both Public Storage and Extra Space are reputable, nationwide chains. Your choice really depends on how long you'll need the unit and how much you value predictable pricing.
Choose Public Storage if: you need a unit for less than six months, you want the absolute lowest upfront cost, and you're willing to monitor rate increases closely (or move out before they hit).
Choose Extra Space if: you're storing for a year or more, you want fewer billing surprises, and you value higher customer service ratings and slightly better security features.
Whichever you pick, always read the fine print, ask about admin fees, and bring proof of your own insurance to avoid unnecessary monthly charges.
💡 Pro Tip
Before renting, check both companies' websites for the exact location you need – rates and promotions can differ by as much as 30% between nearby facilities. Also, look for “online reservation only” deals that waive the admin fee.