StorageCafe’s October 21, 2026 study measures self-storage square footage delivered during 2016–2025 across the 100 largest U.S. metros. Its urban classification uses census tracts within principal cities.
Across the surveyed metros, 59% of delivered square footage was suburban and 41% urban.
Forty-two metros had at least half of deliveries in urban areas; 41 were strictly above 50%. Las Vegas ranked first at 96%. Cape Coral–Fort Myers ranked fifth at 83%, and San Antonio sixth at 82%.
Analysis: These differences suggest that location decisions should be tested against the relevant local submarket. Delivery shares alone do not determine a project’s costs, rents or feasibility.
Key Takeaways
- Urban delivery shares vary sharply by metro, while 59% of delivered square footage across the surveyed metros was suburban.
- Forty-two of 100 metros delivered at least half of storage square footage in urban areas during 2016–2025.
StorageCafe — Suburban Giants and Urban Risers: Where America’s 100 Largest Metros Fall on the Self Storage Map, October 21, 2026. Primary study date is October 21; Connect CRE reported on it October 22. The chart is explicitly titled Urban vs. Suburban Self Storage Across 100 Biggest U.S. Metro Areas. Methodology covers square feet delivered during 2016–2025 and defines urban as census tracts within principal cities. National split: 59% suburban, 41% urban. Forty-two metros were at least 50% urban, 41 strictly above half. Las Vegas 96% first; Cape Coral–Fort Myers 83% fifth; San Antonio 82% sixth. · https://www.storagecafe.com/blog/urban-vs-suburban-self-storage-construction/
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