More New Yorkers May Need Extra Space Outside Their Homes

Buying a larger home is not easy. High home prices and mortgage rates are keeping many families from moving. Instead, people are finding other ways to make room in the homes they already have. For some New Yorkers, that means renting a self storage unit.

Clutter Is Becoming a Bigger Problem

A national survey from StorageCafe included more than 1,400 Americans. More than one out of every three people said clutter at home makes them feel overwhelmed. In the past, many people rented storage units when they were moving. Now, the main reason is not having enough room at home.

More People Are Looking for Storage

Searches for self storage increased by about 25% across the country’s 150 largest cities in 2025. That was about three times the growth seen the year before. The survey found that one out of every four Americans uses self storage. Another 28% said they plan to rent a unit.

Bigger Homes Can Still Run Out of Room

Having a larger home does not always mean having enough space. The survey found that 37% of people living in midsize homes use self storage. Only 22% of people in smaller homes said the same. Holiday decorations, furniture, sports equipment and family keepsakes can quickly fill closets, garages and spare rooms.

Storage Units Are Becoming Extra Closets

Four out of every five storage customers visit their units at least once a month. Nearly two out of three choose climate-controlled units to help protect their belongings. For these customers, a storage unit works like an extra closet or garage.

Gen X Uses Storage the Most

Gen X leads all age groups in current storage use. The survey found that 35% of Gen X respondents rent a storage unit. Gen Z currently has the lowest storage use at 13%. However, nearly one out of every three members of Gen Z said they plan to rent one.

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Working From Home Takes Up Space

Hybrid workers also use storage more than other workers. Almost 35% of people who divide their work time between home and another location, use a storage unit. That can make it harder to keep a home organized.

New Yorkers Are Trying to Make Their Homes Work

For New Yorkers who can't afford to move into a larger home, self storage offers another choice. It allows people to clear some space without giving up belongings that matter to them.