CubeSmart and Public Storage are two names you’ll run into when searching for self-storage. We read through reviews and looked into their features. Here’s what to know before you choose.
CubeSmart vs. Public Storage: Quick Answer
CubeSmart is the cheaper option and comes with more perks. It has 1,500+ facilities in 42 states.
Public Storage has more consistent customer service and 4,600+ facilities across 42 states.
If you’re storing long-term, plan for price increases. At both facilities, the rate you see today won’t be what you’re paying after the first few months.
Key difference: CubeSmart is better for price and amenities, but Public Storage wins on availability and consistency.
CubeSmart vs. Public Storage: At a Glance
| Feature | CubeSmart | Public Storage |
| Locations | 1,500+ across 42 states | 4,600+ across 42 states |
| Pricing | Varies by location and demand | Varies by location and demand |
| Rate increases | ~$15–$30 every 6 months | Up to $50/month. Some renters report 100%+ increases over 10 months |
| Climate control | Nearly all locations | Available at most locations |
| Vehicle storage | Up to 40 feet | Up to 50 feet |
| Free moving truck | For up to 2 hours at select locations | No |
| Office amenities | Wi-Fi, workstations, and coffee at select locations | No |
| App access | Yes | Yes, with extended gate hours |
| Military & student discounts | Yes | No |
What Is CubeSmart?
CubeSmart is the third-largest storage chain in the U.S, and they compete with Public Storage on price and perks. Many locations offer free moving trucks and space to work or recharge during your move.
They offer military, student, and referral discounts, but they don’t publish national pricing, so you’ll need to search in your area to see what’s available and weigh up the cost. You can handle the entire booking online through their SmartRental process.
What Is Public Storage?
Public Storage is the largest self-storage company in the country. Their app gives you extended access hours, digital entry, and account management from your phone.
Public Storage has a stronger hold on vehicle storage, with higher ceilings and units sized for oversized motorhomes, boats, and flatbed trailers.
It doesn’t publish national pricing either. What you pay depends on your location, unit size, and whether you need climate control or drive-up access.
CubeSmart vs. Public Storage: Key Aspects
Both charge month-to-month rent, both offer climate-controlled units, and both have online booking. Here are some other key features that you’ll want to factor into your decision.
Rate Increases
Both companies charge low intro rates to attract renters, then raise prices after you’ve moved your stuff in.
At CubeSmart, reviewers have mentioned increases of around $15–$30 every 6 months. One renter’s bill went from $92–$120 in under 5 months, a 30% jump on a unit they were told would stay the same price for 1 year.
Public Storage’s pattern looks similar. One renter mentioned a $50 monthly increase that pushed their bill past $850. Another saw a 10×10 unit go from $77–$171 in 10 months, a 122% increase.
If you’re storing long-term, ask the facility how often they raise rates and by how much before you sign anything. Our list of 13 things to know before renting a storage unit suggests other questions to ask, too.
Location Coverage
Public Storage has 4,600+ locations across the country. CubeSmart only has 1,500+ so if you’re outside a mid-sized city, there may not be one nearby.
The individual facility can matter more than the brand, so check recent reviews for that specific address before you commit. Our guide to storage facilities covers what to look for when you visit.
Perks
CubeSmart has more perks than most storage chains. Many locations offer a free moving truck for up to 2 hours after you reserve a unit. They also sell an in-store moving kit with boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and a marker if you need supplies on move-in day.
Select locations have free Wi-Fi, workstations with printers, a lounge, and coffee, and you can pay for unit shelving, extra lighting, remote video monitoring, and automatic door openers.
Public Storage keeps it simpler. The main perk is app-based gate access with extended hours and digital entry.
Security
Most renters don’t run into security issues, but do a quick check on the specific facility before you sign.
At CubeSmart, a renter from Nevada discovered that their unit had been burglarized, and management acknowledged that multiple units at that facility had been hit over several months.
Another renter had two units broken into at the same facility, with holes in the wall left unrepaired after the first break-in, allowing thieves to access additional units.
Similar complaints have been made at specific Public Storage locations. One renter’s unit was broken into and relocked by the thief, and the responding police officer noted it wasn’t the first break-in there.
If you can, walk around the facility, check that the gates and cameras are working, and look up the specific address to find recent reviews.
Vehicle Storage
CubeSmart and Public Storage both have outdoor, covered, and enclosed vehicle storage at specific locations, but the size limits are different. CubeSmart tops out at 40 feet, which works for most RVs but may not fit larger trailers.
Public Storage goes up to 50 feet, with enclosed units sized for oversized motorhomes, flatbed trailers, and large boats. If you’re storing a standard car or motorcycle, either brand has options.
Whatever you’re looking to store, make sure there’s a unit available at a location near you before you check out the facility in person.
CubeSmart vs. Public Storage: Which Should You Pick?
If there’s a CubeSmart location near you, the free moving truck and other amenities can be hard to pass up. For other renters, the convenience and size range at Public Storage will be what clinches it.
But these aren’t your only options. People in your area are renting out their unused garages, driveways, sheds, and spare land, often for up to 50% less than facilities charge.
Neighbor shows you all the storage spots near you, from big-name units to spaces rented out by your neighbors. One search lets you browse photos, reviews, and descriptions of each listing. And every booking can come with up to $25,000 in renter property protection.
A 4.9-star rating across 689,000+ reviews tells us that renters are finding storage spaces cheaper and closer to home on Neighbor.
You can compare listings online in a few minutes, or call us if you’d rather talk it through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CubeSmart give you a free moving truck?
Yes, many CubeSmart locations give you a free moving truck for up to 2 hours. Not every facility has this, though, so confirm before you make a decision about where to book.
What size storage unit do I need?
A 10×10 unit fits the contents of a two-bedroom apartment, and it’s the most popular size. A 10×20 handles a larger home or a vehicle. Our storage unit size guide will help you figure out what you need.
Do I need climate-controlled storage?
If you’re storing wood furniture, electronics, artwork, or documents for more than a couple of months, the answer is yes, but budget for 20–50% added to your monthly bill.
