Boat and RV Storage Pricing Guide for 2026
Americans own roughly 11.2 million registered RVs, according to the RV Industry Association (RVIA) , and over 11.8 million recreational boats, per the U.S. Coast Guard's recreational boating statistics. That is nearly 23 million vehicles that need somewhere to go when they are not on the road or the water.
The storage question is universal among boat and RV owners, but the pricing question is where confusion sets in. Rates vary wildly depending on where you live, what type of storage you choose, and how large your vehicle is. A 20-foot bass boat and a 40-foot Class A motorhome have very different storage needs and very different price tags.
This guide eliminates the guesswork. Every major pricing factor, storage type, and cost-saving strategy is covered below with specific numbers and honest comparisons.
What Is the Typical Monthly Pricing for Boat and RV Storage in My Area?
Monthly boat and RV storage pricing depends primarily on three variables: the type of storage, the size of your vehicle, and your geographic market. Here is what the national landscape looks like heading into 2026.
Boat and RV Storage Pricing by Storage Type
| Storage Type | Monthly Price Range | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor uncovered | $50 - $125 | Fenced lot, security, paved or gravel surface |
| Outdoor covered | $100 - $200 | Roof structure, reserved space, security |
| Enclosed non-climate | $150 - $300 | Four walls, personal lock, full weather protection |
| Enclosed climate-controlled | $200 - $450+ | Temperature/humidity regulation, premium security |
These ranges reflect national averages. Your actual cost will land higher or lower depending on your specific market, which we break down in detail below.
The most common mistake boat and RV owners make is comparing prices without comparing storage types. A $75 outdoor lot and a $250 enclosed unit are not competitors. They are different products solving different problems at different price points.
How Can I Compare Boat and RV Storage Pricing for Indoor Versus Outdoor Spaces?
The indoor vs. outdoor pricing gap is the single largest cost variable in boat and RV storage. Understanding what drives that gap helps you decide whether the premium is worth it for your situation.
Indoor vs. Outdoor: Cost Drivers
| Cost Factor | Outdoor Storage | Indoor Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Construction cost | Minimal (lot, fence, canopy) | Significant (building, HVAC, doors) |
| Per-square-foot overhead | Low | 3x to 5x higher |
| Insurance for facility | Lower | Higher (more asset value under roof) |
| Maintenance | Pavement, fencing, lighting | Building systems, climate equipment, doors |
| Typical markup | Baseline | 50% to 200% above outdoor |
When indoor storage justifies the cost:
- Your boat or RV is valued above $75,000
- You are storing for more than six months continuously
- Your region experiences extreme heat, cold, humidity, or frequent hail
- The vehicle has sensitive systems (teak decking, leather interiors, onboard electronics)
- Rodent activity is common in your area
When outdoor storage is sufficient:
- Storage duration is under six months
- Your vehicle is primarily functional, not a collector or luxury asset
- Your climate is moderate with limited severe weather
- Budget is a primary constraint
For most recreational boat and RV owners, covered outdoor storage delivers the best balance of protection and price. You block sun, rain, and hail without paying for a building.
Browse Good Boy Storage locations to compare indoor and outdoor options in your area.
What Factors Affect Boat and RV Storage Pricing Such as Size, Location, and Security Features?
Storage pricing is not arbitrary. Every facility calculates rates based on measurable inputs. Here are the factors that move your monthly cost up or down.
1. Vehicle Length: The Primary Pricing Unit
Most facilities price boat and RV storage by the linear foot rather than square footage. This makes vehicle length the single biggest determinant of your rate.
| Vehicle Length | Outdoor Uncovered | Outdoor Covered | Enclosed Indoor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 20 ft | $50 - $80/mo | $85 - $130/mo | $120 - $200/mo |
| 20 - 25 ft | $70 - $100/mo | $110 - $160/mo | $150 - $250/mo |
| 25 - 30 ft | $85 - $125/mo | $130 - $190/mo | $180 - $300/mo |
| 30 - 35 ft | $100 - $150/mo | $155 - $220/mo | $220 - $350/mo |
| 35 - 40 ft | $120 - $175/mo | $180 - $260/mo | $260 - $400/mo |
| 40+ ft | $150 - $225/mo | $210 - $300/mo | $300 - $450+/mo |
Important: Measure your vehicle accurately before contacting facilities. Include the trailer tongue for boats, the hitch extension for towed RVs, and any roof-mounted accessories (AC units, antennas, kayak racks) that affect clearance height. Underestimating dimensions leads to booking a space that does not fit, which wastes time and may incur rebooking fees.
2. Geographic Location
Storage pricing follows the same economic logic as real estate: land costs, local demand, and competition set the floor.
| Region | Relative Pricing | Key Drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast (NY, NJ, CT, MA) | High | Land scarcity, high demand, seasonal surge |
| Southeast (FL, GA, SC, NC) | Moderate to High | Year-round boating demand, coastal premium |
| Midwest (OH, IN, MI, WI) | Low to Moderate | Lower land costs, strong seasonal demand |
| Southwest (TX, AZ, NM) | Moderate | Large RV market, heat-related demand |
| West Coast (CA, OR, WA) | High | Land costs, regulation, coastal demand |
| Mountain West (CO, UT, MT) | Moderate | Growing RV market, variable land costs |
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) tracks regional cost-of-living indices that correlate closely with storage pricing. Markets where housing costs are high almost always have elevated storage rates because the underlying land costs are the same.
3. Security Features
Security infrastructure adds cost to operate a facility, and that cost is passed through to tenants. The more security layers a facility offers, the higher the rate tends to be.
Basic security (perimeter fence plus gate) adds minimally to cost. Advanced security (24-hour video surveillance, individual alarms, on-site staff, app-controlled access) can add 10% to 25% to the base rate. For high-value boats and RVs, this premium is typically worthwhile.
According to the FBI's property crime data , theft from outdoor storage lots remains a persistent issue, particularly for catalytic converters, outboard motors, batteries, and electronics. A facility with serious security infrastructure reduces this risk significantly.
4. Amenities and Added Services
Some facilities offer services beyond basic storage that affect pricing:
- Dump stations for RV waste tank disposal
- Wash bays for cleaning before or after storage
- Battery charging outlets for trickle chargers during storage
- Pull-through spaces that eliminate the need to back in a long trailer
- On-site propane filling for RV owners
These amenities may be included in the monthly rate or offered a la carte. Ask specifically what is and is not included.
What Are Average Boat and RV Storage Pricing Ranges for Covered Versus Uncovered Parking?
This is the comparison most searchers are trying to make, so here it is in direct terms.
| Vehicle Type & Length | Uncovered Monthly | Covered Monthly | Price Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 ft bass boat on trailer | $55 - $80 | $90 - $130 | +$35 to $50 |
| 24 ft pontoon on trailer | $75 - $105 | $120 - $165 | +$45 to $60 |
| 28 ft travel trailer | $90 - $130 | $140 - $200 | +$50 to $70 |
| 32 ft Class C motorhome | $110 - $155 | $165 - $230 | +$55 to $75 |
| 38 ft Class A motorhome | $140 - $190 | $200 - $280 | +$60 to $90 |
| 22 ft center console boat | $70 - $100 | $115 - $155 | +$45 to $55 |
The covered premium runs roughly 40% to 65% above uncovered rates. Whether that premium makes sense depends on your local weather exposure and the value of what you are protecting.
In hail-prone states (Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, Nebraska), covered storage often pays for itself through avoided damage. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) documents that hail causes over $10 billion in U.S. property damage annually, and vehicles stored outdoors without cover bear a disproportionate share.
In mild, dry climates (parts of southern California, Nevada, Arizona), uncovered storage is more defensible from a cost-benefit perspective, though UV damage to fiberglass hulls, rubber seals, and exterior graphics still accumulates.
Where Can I Find the Most Affordable Boat and RV Storage Pricing Without Sacrificing Security?
Suburban and exurban facilities typically offer the best combination. They have lower land costs than urban or coastal locations (which reduces your rate) while still investing in professional security infrastructure. A facility 20 miles outside a major metro area may charge 25% to 40% less than a facility within the city limits for identical security features.
Newer facilities often price competitively to build occupancy. A storage facility in its first two years of operation may offer introductory rates or promotional discounts to fill spaces. These are legitimate deals, not quality compromises.
Avoid the two extremes. The cheapest option in any market (a neighbor's field with a chain-link fence) sacrifices security entirely. The most expensive option (a boutique climate-controlled facility with concierge service) may include features you do not need. The middle of the market is where value concentrates.
Good Boy Storage was built around this principle: professional security, proper facilities, and fair pricing. Explore locations to see what is available near you.
How Does Boat and RV Storage Pricing Differ for Short-Term Versus Long-Term Contracts?
Contract length is one of your strongest negotiating levers. Facilities prefer predictable occupancy, and they price accordingly.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Rate Comparison
| Contract Length | Typical Rate Structure | Discount vs. Month-to-Month |
|---|---|---|
| Month-to-month | Full listed rate | Baseline (0%) |
| 3-month prepay | Slight discount | 5% - 8% |
| 6-month prepay | Moderate discount | 8% - 12% |
| 12-month prepay | Best available rate | 10% - 15% |
| Seasonal (winter-only, 4-5 months) | Package rate | Varies, often 5% - 10% |
The math on a real example: A 30-foot travel trailer at a covered outdoor facility listed at $180 per month. Over 12 months, that is $2,160 at the month-to-month rate. A 12-month prepay at a 12% discount drops the total to $1,901, saving $259 per year. That is not insignificant.
Short-term storage (under three months) is best suited for seasonal use: storing a boat over winter, parking an RV between summer trips, or holding a vehicle during a temporary relocation. Month-to-month rates give you flexibility, and the premium over long-term rates is the cost of that flexibility.
Long-term storage works for extended travel, military deployment, estates in transition, or simply owning a recreational vehicle you only use twice a year.
Which Facilities Publish Transparent Boat and RV Storage Pricing and Allow Online Quotes?
Pricing transparency is a strong signal of facility quality. Operations that publish rates openly tend to be more professionally managed, more confident in their value proposition, and less likely to surprise you with hidden fees at move-in.
Red flags in storage pricing:
- "Call for pricing" with no published ranges whatsoever
- Rates that exclude mandatory fees (admin fees, insurance requirements, gate deposits)
- Quotes that change between the phone call and the lease signing
- No written lease or unclear cancellation terms
Green flags in storage pricing:
- Published monthly rates by storage type and size
- Clear disclosure of all fees (one-time and recurring)
- Online quote or reservation capability
- Written lease with defined terms, notice periods, and rate-lock provisions
Good Boy Storage provides transparent pricing and straightforward lease terms. Reach out directly to get an accurate quote for your specific vehicle and storage needs.
Where Can I Find Boat and RV Storage Pricing That Includes Added Services Like Wash Bays or Dump Stations?
Added services are increasingly common at RV-focused storage facilities, and they can meaningfully affect the total value equation.
Dump stations allow RV owners to empty waste tanks on-site rather than finding a separate dump facility. The U.S. National Park Service and many state parks maintain public dump stations, but having one at your storage facility saves a trip and often a fee ($10 to $25 per dump at public stations).
Wash bays let you clean your boat or RV before placing it in storage, which is a critical preparation step for preventing mold, salt corrosion, and pest attraction.
Battery charging stations or outlets allow you to connect a trickle charger during storage, preventing the dead-battery problem that plagues stored vehicles.
Pull-through spaces eliminate the need to back a long trailer into a tight spot, which saves time, reduces stress, and minimizes the risk of damage during parking maneuvers.
When evaluating a facility's total pricing, factor in whether these services are included or separately charged. A facility at $175 per month with an included dump station and wash bay may offer better total value than a facility at $150 per month where those services cost extra or require traveling off-site.
What Boat and RV Storage Pricing Options Are Available for Seasonal or Winter-Only Storage?
Seasonal storage is the most common use case for boat owners and a significant segment of the RV market, particularly in northern states where winter weather makes recreational use impractical from November through March.
Seasonal pricing models include:
- Fixed seasonal rate: A flat fee for the season (typically 4 to 6 months), often priced at 5% to 10% below the equivalent monthly rate
- Monthly with seasonal discount: Standard monthly billing with a reduced rate during the off-season
- Bundle pricing: Seasonal storage combined with winterization services, spring commissioning, or both
In the Midwest and Northeast, seasonal demand creates a predictable cycle. Facilities fill quickly in late fall as boats come off the water and RVs park for winter. By October, the best covered and indoor spaces may already be reserved. If you know you will need winter storage, booking in August or September often secures better availability and sometimes a better rate.
The National Weather Service provides historical data on first freeze dates by region, which can help you time your storage start and end dates accurately.
How Can I Negotiate Better Boat and RV Storage Pricing for Multiple Vehicles or Longer Commitments?
Negotiation is underused in the storage industry. Most facilities have pricing flexibility, especially for tenants who represent reliable, long-term revenue.
Strategies that work:
- Multi-vehicle discount: If you store both a boat and an RV (or a boat, RV, and a car), ask for a bundled rate. Many facilities offer 10% to 20% off the total when you store two or more vehicles.
- Prepayment discount: As detailed above, paying upfront for 6 or 12 months typically yields 8% to 15% savings.
- Off-peak booking: Facilities have slower leasing months (typically January through March in most markets). Moving in during these periods gives you more leverage.
- Referral credits: Some facilities offer one month free or a rate reduction for referring other boat or RV owners who sign leases.
- Price matching: If a competitor offers a lower rate for comparable storage, ask your preferred facility to match it. Many will, especially if you are committed to a longer term.
Negotiation tip: Frame your ask around commitment, not complaint. "I would like to sign a 12-month lease for two vehicles. What is the best rate you can offer for that commitment?" works far better than "Your prices are too high."
Are There Hidden Fees in Boat and RV Storage Contracts?
"Hidden" is a strong word, but there are fees that some facilities disclose only in the fine print. Knowing what to look for prevents surprises.
Common fees to ask about:
| Fee Type | Typical Range | How Common |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative/setup fee | $15 - $50 (one-time) | Very common |
| Lock purchase (if required) | $10 - $25 | Common at enclosed facilities |
| Gate access device deposit | $25 - $50 (refundable) | Moderate |
| Insurance requirement or tenant protection | $10 - $30/month | Very common |
| Late payment fee | $15 - $50 | Universal |
| Rate increase after promotional period | 5% - 15% increase | Common |
| After-hours access fee | $0 - $25/visit | Uncommon but exists |
| Returned payment fee | $25 - $35 | Universal |
The most impactful "hidden" cost is the rate increase after a promotional period. If a facility offers your first month at $99 but the standard rate is $175, that is not a $99 rate. That is a $175 rate with a one-month discount. Understand the standard rate before signing.
Good Boy Storage's tenant protection plan offers transparent coverage at a known monthly cost, which replaces the uncertainty of personal insurance requirements at many facilities.
Is Boat and RV Storage More Expensive in Certain States?
Yes, and the differences are substantial.
| State | Relative Cost Level | Primary Driver |
|---|---|---|
| California | Very High | Land costs, regulation, coastal demand |
| New York | Very High | Land scarcity, high construction costs |
| Florida | High | Year-round demand, coastal premium, hurricane prep |
| Texas | Moderate | Large supply, competitive market, some urban premiums |
| Michigan | Low to Moderate | Lower land costs, strong seasonal demand |
| Arizona | Moderate | RV popularity, lower land costs offset by heat demand |
| Ohio | Low | Abundant supply, lower land and operating costs |
| Montana | Low to Moderate | Rural market, growing demand |
The U.S. Census Bureau tracks population density and migration patterns that directly influence storage demand. States experiencing rapid population growth (Texas, Florida, Arizona, Tennessee) tend to see storage pricing rise as demand outpaces new facility construction.
Coastal markets carry an additional premium because proximity to water increases both boating density and land costs simultaneously.
Does Boat Length or Vehicle Size Determine Storage Cost?
Yes. Vehicle length is the primary pricing metric at most boat and RV storage facilities.
Facilities measure your vehicle's total footprint: the full length from front bumper (or trailer hitch) to rear bumper (or outboard motor), and occasionally height for enclosed units with clearance limits.
How per-foot pricing typically works:
Most facilities price in length tiers (under 20 feet, 20 to 25 feet, 25 to 30 feet, etc.) rather than exact per-foot calculations. Moving up a tier can increase your monthly cost by $20 to $50 depending on the facility and storage type.
Height matters too. RVs with rooftop AC units, satellite dishes, or storage pods may exceed the clearance of standard enclosed units (typically 12 to 14 feet). Boats on trailers with T-tops, towers, or radar arches may need taller-than-standard covered spaces. Always provide your full vehicle dimensions, including height, when requesting quotes.
Are Utilities Included in Boat and RV Storage Pricing?
For standard outdoor and covered storage, utilities are rarely a factor because there are no climate systems to power. Your rate covers the space, security, and facility maintenance.
For enclosed indoor storage, particularly climate-controlled units, utility costs (electricity for HVAC, lighting, and ventilation) are built into the monthly rate. This is one reason climate-controlled storage costs 30% to 80% more than non-climate enclosed units.
If you need an electrical outlet for a trickle charger or battery maintainer, ask whether outlet access is included in your rate or billed as an add-on. Some facilities include this at no extra charge. Others charge $10 to $30 per month for metered outlet use.
Is Climate-Controlled Storage Worth the Cost for Boats and RVs?
For most recreational boats and RVs stored under 12 months, climate control is not necessary if the vehicle is properly prepared for storage (winterized systems, stabilized fuel, covered vents, moisture absorbers).
Climate-controlled storage becomes worth the cost when:
- The vehicle is valued above $100,000 (high-end motorhomes, luxury yachts)
- The interior contains genuine wood, leather, or sensitive electronics that humidity degrades
- Storage extends beyond 12 months without periodic access
- Your region experiences sustained humidity above 70% or temperature swings exceeding 50 degrees Fahrenheit across seasons
The incremental cost of climate control over enclosed non-climate storage is typically $50 to $150 per month. For a $250,000 Class A diesel pusher, that is straightforward protection. For a $15,000 fishing boat, the math is harder to justify.
Pay for What You Actually Need, Not What Sounds Best
Boat and RV storage pricing follows a logical pattern once you understand the inputs. Vehicle length sets the base. Storage type multiplies it. Location and security features adjust it. Contract length and negotiation refine it.
The most expensive option is not automatically the best option. A $400-per-month climate-controlled indoor unit is overkill for a fiberglass bass boat you use every other weekend from April through October. Likewise, a $60-per-month open lot is inadequate for a $200,000 motorhome sitting through eight months of Midwest winter.
Match the storage to the vehicle, the duration, and the risk. Get accurate dimensions before you call. Ask about every fee before you sign. Negotiate on commitment length and multi-vehicle bundles. And choose a facility that invests in real security, not just a padlock on a chain-link gate.
Good Boy Storage provides the full range of boat and RV storage options with transparent pricing, professional security, and the flexibility to match your specific needs. Find a location near you or contact the team directly to get an accurate quote today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does boat and RV storage cost per month?
Monthly costs range from $50 for outdoor uncovered parking to $450 or more for climate-controlled indoor storage, depending on vehicle length, storage type, and location.
What is the average price for RV storage?
The national average for RV storage falls between $100 and $250 per month for covered or basic enclosed options, with significant variation by region and vehicle size.
How much should I expect to pay for boat storage?
Boat storage on a trailer typically costs $55 to $200 per month depending on boat length, with covered outdoor storage representing the most common price range.
What is a fair price for boat and RV storage?
A fair price aligns with your local market average for the storage type you need, and a facility that charges within the ranges in this guide while offering gated security is generally pricing fairly.
Why is boat and RV storage so expensive?
Boats and RVs require larger spaces than standard vehicles, which means more land per tenant, higher security infrastructure costs, and fewer units per facility footprint.
Are boat and RV storage prices going up?
Yes, storage rates have increased 3% to 8% annually in most markets since 2020, driven by rising land costs, construction expenses, and growing recreational vehicle ownership.
Does the size of my RV affect the storage price?
Yes, vehicle length is the primary pricing metric at most facilities, and moving up one size tier (typically 5-foot increments) increases monthly cost by $20 to $50.
Does boat length determine storage cost?
Yes, most facilities price boat storage by the total length of the boat and trailer combined, measured from the tongue to the farthest point of the outboard or stern.
Do storage facilities charge by square footage or vehicle length?
Most boat and RV storage facilities charge by vehicle length in tiered brackets, while standard self-storage units for enclosed spaces are sometimes priced by square footage.
Is covered storage more expensive than outdoor parking?
Yes, covered storage typically costs 40% to 65% more than uncovered outdoor parking due to the overhead roof structure, reserved spacing, and enhanced weather protection.
Are there discounts for long-term boat and RV storage rentals?
Most facilities offer 5% to 15% discounts for prepaying three, six, or twelve months, with additional savings often available for storing multiple vehicles.
Is boat and RV storage more expensive in certain states?
Yes, states with high land costs and strong recreational demand like California, New York, and Florida have significantly higher storage rates than Midwest and Mountain West markets.








