CubeSmart vs Extra Space Storage: which is better in the US?

Who they are

CubeSmart — ~1,300 units across the US, focused on urban markets (NYC, Chicago, Miami). Offers a free 2h moving truck in many cities.

Extra Space Storage — Largest self storage REIT in the US, ~4,000 nationwide units. Broad coverage including suburbs and secondary markets.

Coverage and scale

Extra Space is ~3x larger by unit count. Likely has a closer unit unless you're in a major metro.

CubeSmart concentrates on dense urban centers — advantage if you're in NY, LA, Chicago, Miami.

Pricing (5×5 to 10×10 ft)

CubeSmart 5×5 ft: $50-120/month · 10×10 ft: $200-400/month.

Extra Space 5×5 ft: $45-110/month · 10×10 ft: $180-380/month.

Extra Space tends to be 5-10% cheaper due to scale. CubeSmart charges urban-location premium.

Differentiators

CubeSmart: free 2h truck (first move) · 24/7 access at many units · climate control standard.

Extra Space: robust mobile app · online check-in without visit · military/student discount · own insurance included.

When to choose CubeSmart

You're in a major metro (NY, Chicago, Miami).

Need the free truck for first move.

Want 24/7 access guaranteed.

When to choose Extra Space

Live in secondary market or suburb — Extra Space has more coverage.

Prefer to manage everything via app without visiting.

Want lower base price and the largest network's scale.

Bottom line

Major metro: CubeSmart (truck + 24/7 + urban).

Rest of the country or best price: Extra Space.

[Ask our concierge](/en/contact/) with your city and we'll compare these two + Public Storage for you.