Here’s the full April 2025 Matrix Self Storage National Report

The April 2025 Matrix Self Storage National Report details the basis for an optimistic long-term outlook for the U.S. self storage industry investment despite near-term challenges.

Written by Joel Nelson

04 / 29 / 25

2 min read

Although uncertainty remains high in the self storage industry, Yardi Matrix analysts see signs of positive long-term prospects for the sector. The April 2025 Matrix Self Storage National Report outlines a business landscape marked by cautious lenders, slowing development, rising operational costs and increased regulatory risk. However, the report notes, “Top public and private buyers remain active despite pricing challenges,” and “optimism persists among seasoned investors positioning for long-term gains, with increased focus on disciplined capital deployment and strategic partnerships.”

Bridge loan demand is up

Bridge loan demand is surging as properties lease up more slowly than expected. Cap rates have risen, and underwriting has tightened. Development has slowed due to construction and financing hurdles. But advertised rate declines have eased since late 2024, and rate growth is improving as the second quarter of 2025 progresses. According to the report, “The early leasing season shows better performance compared to the past two years, leading to an earlier-than-expected return to flat year-over-year rate growth.”

Street rate changes in top metros

Year-over-year same-store rates for non-climate-controlled units increased in 13 of the top 30 metros tracked by Yardi Matrix, led by San Jose, California; Washington, D.C.; Columbus, Ohio; Tampa, Florida.; and Chicago. Rates climate-controlled units grew in 17 of the metros, most notably in Washington, Tampa, San Jose, Chicago, Minneapolis and San Francisco.

The month-over-month national average for advertised rates per square foot increased by 0.4%, with Washington; Charleston, South Carolina; Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina; New York City; and Boston showing the most growth. Advertised rate declines have eased since late 2024, and rate growth is improving as we enter Q2 2025.

Read about lease-up supply trends, major metro summaries, construction activity and more in the April 2025 Matrix Self Storage National Report.

AUTHOR

Joel Nelson, senior marketing writer, joined Yardi in 2007. His byline has appeared in New York Real Estate Journal, Canadian Property Management and Los Angeles Lawyer, among others. He has won multiple awards from major professional organizations including the International Association of Business Communicators and Public Communicators of Los Angeles. Joel earned a bachelor’s degree from Pomona College.

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