Find Self Storage Units

Near Chicago

SmartStop Self Storage offers convenient locations throughout the Chicago area, making it easier for residents across the metro to find safe, reliable self storage. Whether you live downtown, near the lake or in surrounding suburbs, our facilities are strategically located to serve a wide range of needs. Wherever you call home in the Chicago area, SmartStop makes it easier to store everything from seasonal items to long-term belongings. From climate-controlled units to vehicle storage options, we’re here to help simplify your space.

About SmartStop Self Storage in Chicago, IL

SmartStop Self Storage provides trusted storage solutions for Chicago residents, students, families and businesses. Our modern facilities offer convenient features designed to support city living, including drive-up access, climate-controlled storage and flexible unit options. With convenient access hours and a variety of unit sizes available, storing your belongings fits easily into your routine.

Moving to Chicago, IL?

Chicago continues to draw new residents with its diverse neighborhoods, strong employment opportunities and access to culture, education and transportation. With housing options ranging from downtown apartments to suburban communities, many people rely on self storage during moves, renovations or lifestyle changes. For more information, check out our moving guide to Chicago, IL. SmartStop Self Storage also offers storage solutions throughout the surrounding area, making it easier to stay organized during every stage of your move.

We know that moving can be stressful, and SmartStop is here to help. To stay organized throughout the moving process, take advantage of our moving checklist as you plan your relocation.

Overview

Located along the shore of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a large, diverse city made up of more than 70 distinct communities, each offering its own lifestyle and amenities. Often called “The Windy City,” Chicago is also known as a major transportation hub, with a long history tied to railroads and commerce. This combination of lakefront living, dense neighborhoods and surrounding suburbs creates a wide range of storage needs across the metro area.

Popular Neighborhoods in Chicago

Chicago and its surrounding suburbs offer a wide range of communities, each with its own character and pace of life. Whether you prefer city energy or a quieter suburban setting, there’s no shortage of options across the metro area.

Naperville

Located west of downtown Chicago, Naperville is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, strong school options and a walkable downtown. Parks, cultural events and community amenities make it a popular choice for those looking for suburban living with easy access to the city.

Oak Park

Just west of Chicago, Oak Park offers a diverse community with a strong arts and cultural presence. The area is well known for its historic architecture, local dining scene and convenient transit connections into the city.

Evanston

Set along Lake Michigan north of Chicago, Evanston combines lakefront parks with a lively downtown. Home to a major university, it offers a balance of residential neighborhoods and urban amenities.

Arlington Heights

Located northwest of downtown Chicago, Arlington Heights features a vibrant downtown with shopping, dining and entertainment. The community is also known for its schools and strong local services.

Hinsdale

West of the city, Hinsdale is an established suburban community recognized for its residential neighborhoods, natural surroundings and highly regarded schools. It offers a quieter pace of life while remaining well connected to Chicago.

What Are Things to Do in Chicago, IL?

Chicago offers a wide range of activities for both residents and visitors, blending outdoor spaces, cultural institutions and well-known landmarks. Whether you’re exploring the city for the first time or rediscovering it as a local, there’s always something to do.

Millennium Park

Located downtown, Millennium Park is one of the city’s most recognizable gathering places. It’s home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture — often called “The Bean” — and hosts public art installations, seasonal events and concerts throughout the year!

Chicago Area Must-See Museums

Chicago’s Museum Campus includes popular destinations such as the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium. The Art Institute of Chicago is another standout, known for its extensive collection spanning centuries and styles.

Wrigley Field

Catching a game at Wrigley Field is a classic Chicago experience. The historic ballpark remains a favorite destination for sports fans and visitors alike.

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

Architecture enthusiasts can visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio and explore the surrounding historic district, which features many of his early residential designs.

The Lincoln Park Zoo

Situated near the lakefront, the Lincoln Park Zoo offers free, family-friendly entertainment year-round and is easy to visit during a day in the city.

Lake Michigan

Chicago’s lakefront provides space for walking, biking, swimming and relaxing with scenic views, making it a central part of everyday life in the city.

These highlights are just a starting point. Across Chicago, you’ll find additional museums, parks, neighborhoods and cultural events that make the city an engaging place to live and explore year-round.

Explore Types of Storage Units Available

SmartStop Self Storage offers a variety of storage options designed to meet the needs of Chicago residents, students and businesses.

Car Storage

If you need a secure place to store an extra vehicle, seasonal car or classic automobile, SmartStop offers vehicle storage options at select locations to help keep vehicles protected when they’re not in use.

Student Storage

With colleges and universities across the Chicago area, student storage is a convenient solution during summer breaks, internships or housing transitions. Flexible month-to-month rentals make it easy to store belongings without long-term commitments.

Business Storage

From contractors and retailers to growing small businesses, business storage provides flexible space for inventory, equipment, tools and records — without the cost of long-term warehouse leases.

Office Space

Select SmartStop locations — including our facility in Elk Grove Village, near O’Hare Airport — offer office space for businesses looking for convenient, flexible work environments close to their storage units.

Storage Tips for Chicago’s Climate and Lifestyle

If you’re new to Chicago, one of the first things you’ll notice is how much the seasons shape daily life. Winters are cold and windy, summers can be warm and humid, and spring and fall bring frequent temperature swings. That variety is part of the city’s charm — but it also means your belongings need a little extra consideration.

Climate-controlled storage can help protect items like electronics, documents, furniture, artwork and clothing from extreme cold and fluctuating humidity. Many residents also rotate belongings throughout the year, storing winter coats and boots in warmer months and summer gear when colder weather returns. Using durable containers and keeping items elevated inside your unit can help keep everything in good condition, no matter the season.

Frequently Stored Items in Chicago

Self storage plays a big role in helping Chicago residents stay organized, especially in apartments and older buildings where closet space can be limited. Some of the most commonly stored items include:

• Heavy winter coats, boots and cold-weather accessories

• Bikes, skis and recreational gear used seasonally

• Furniture from moves, downsizing or renovations

• Boxes and household items that don’t fit comfortably at home

• Business supplies, tools and inventory

• Student belongings during school breaks or housing changes

Common FAQs Around Storage Units in the Chicago Area

When can I access my SmartStop Storage unit in Chicago?

Most SmartStop locations offer secure storage access from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.* This makes it easy to visit your unit before work, after hours or on weekends. Office hours are separate from gate access and typically run from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays.

*Please confirm access hours with your local facility, as hours may vary and are subject to change.

Do I need climate-controlled storage in Chicago’s winters?

While drive-up storage is great and convenient for loading and unloading your stored belongings right in front of your unit, climate-controlled storage offers the advantage of protecting your valuables from prolonged cold and temperature swings that can affect electronics, wood furniture, paper documents and certain fabrics. Climate-controlled storage helps keep conditions more stable year-round, which is especially helpful if you’re new to the city and still figuring out seasonal storage needs.

What items should I avoid storing in a non–climate-controlled unit in Chicago?

Items sensitive to cold, heat or moisture are best kept in climate-controlled storage. This includes electronics, photographs, artwork, documents, leather goods and wood furniture. Musical instruments and clothing made from natural fibers also benefit from a more consistent environment, particularly during winter and early spring.

What should I bring on move-in day to my storage unit?

On move-in day, it helps to bring a few essentials: a photo ID, your unit access information, sturdy boxes or bins, packing tape and labels. Many SmartStop locations also sell moving and packing supplies on-site, which is convenient if you realize you need extra boxes or materials once you arrive.

What are your rental terms?

SmartStop offers flexible month-to-month storage rentals, so you’re not locked into a long-term contract. This makes storage a great option if your plans change — whether you’re between leases, renovating, storing seasonally or just need extra space for a short time. You can rent for as long as you need and adjust your unit size based on availability if your storage needs evolve.

Getting Started Is Easy

Finding the right storage solution in the Chicago area doesn’t have to be complicated. SmartStop makes it simple to get started:

• Find a nearby SmartStop location that’s convenient for home or work

• Choose a unit size that fits what you plan to store

• Reserve your unit online or in person, with flexible month-to-month options

With clean, well-maintained facilities, helpful on-site teams and easy online account management, SmartStop is here to make storing your belongings in Chicago feel straightforward — whether you’re brand new to the city or just need a little extra space.