Do storage units have outlets?

Most don't. Of the 8,857 facility websites we could read, about 4 in 100 say they have outlets inside units.

Last checked October 2026

We read the websites of 10,095 self storage facilities in 40 US markets and looked for the words they use about power. 349 say they have outlets inside at least some units. 251 say they have power at RV, boat, or car spots. Every listing on this site shows the facility's own words, so you can judge for yourself.

Why most storage units have no power

A standard storage unit is a metal box with a light in the hallway and a roll-up door. Facilities leave outlets out for a few common reasons:

• Fire risk. A space heater or a charger left running in a closed unit full of boxes is a hazard for every tenant in the building.
• People living in units. Power makes it easier for someone to stay overnight, which leases and local codes do not allow.
• Cost. Wiring each unit and paying for the power adds up. Most renters only need dry space, so most facilities don't pay for it.

The facilities that do offer power usually have it in only some units, and often at a higher rent.

Outlets in the unit vs. RV and boat hookups

"Storage with electricity" covers two different things, and a facility might have one without the other.

An outlet inside your unit

This is a wall outlet inside an enclosed unit. It suits battery chargers, a dehumidifier, lights, or light tool use. Some facilities list 220V or 240V service for bigger tools. See every facility that lists outlets in units.

Power at a parking spot

This is a power post at an outdoor or covered parking space for an RV, boat, or car. It is mainly for battery tenders and trickle chargers. Some list 30 or 50 amp service. 57 of the facilities with vehicle power on this site list an amp rating. See every facility that lists RV, boat, or car power.

What to ask before you rent

• Where is the outlet? Inside the unit, in the hallway, or at the parking spot.
• How many amps? A 15 amp circuit is fine for a charger but not for a compressor or welder.
• How is it billed? Of the 52 facilities on this site that say how power is billed, 27 include it in the rent, 12 charge a fee, and 13 meter it.
• What can I plug in? Many leases ban space heaters, refrigerators, or running equipment while you are away.
• Is it in the lease? Get the power terms in writing, so a new manager can't take it away.

Which chains list power

Big chains have the most locations, but few of their websites mention power. This table counts the locations whose website we could read and how many of those say they have power.

Independent facilities are more likely to list power. About 10 in 100 independent sites we read say they have outlets in units, compared with about 2 in 100 chain locations. If you need it, start with your metro and call the facility to confirm. For the full numbers by state, chain, and city, see our storage with electricity study.