SmartStop Self Storage expands into Washington, D.C., and San Jose with premium facilities   

SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc., a self-managed and fully integrated self-storage real estate investment trust, has solidified its position in the U.S. market with the acquisition of two premium self-storage facilities. These additions, located in Washington, D.C., and San Jose, California, underscore the company’s focus on high-growth, urban areas characterized by strong demand for storage solutions.

Expansion in Washington, D.C.: A Prime Urban Opportunity

SmartStop’s new facility in Washington, D.C., is a state-of-the-art Class A property situated at 1401 22nd Street SE. Spanning five stories, the building offers approximately 74,300 net rentable square feet and 830 fully climate-controlled storage units. Designed for customer convenience, the facility features two elevator access points, streamlining the storage experience.

Strategically located four miles southeast of downtown Washington, D.C., the facility enjoys high visibility along the Anacostia Freeway and Pennsylvania Avenue, which collectively see daily traffic of around 167,000 vehicles. The site’s proximity to densely populated neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Kingman Park, and Fort Dupont enhances its value. Demographic studies reveal robust median household incomes and a projected population growth of 6.1% over the next five years, indicating sustained demand for self-storage services.

By targeting the heart of a growing urban community, SmartStop aims to meet the storage needs of residents and businesses in Southeast Washington and surrounding areas. This acquisition is poised to strengthen the company’s foothold in one of the nation’s most dynamic metropolitan markets.

San Jose Acquisition Highlights Strategic West Coast Growth

On the West Coast, SmartStop has acquired a 59,650-square-foot facility located at 2487 Alum Rock Avenue in San Jose, California. The property consists of three buildings housing approximately 650 storage units. Offering both exterior drive-up and interior non-climate-controlled units, the facility provides a diverse range of options tailored to customer preferences.

Situated just three miles from downtown San Jose, the facility is strategically positioned along Alum Rock Avenue and Highway 680, areas that experience a combined daily traffic count of 244,000 vehicles. This high visibility, coupled with a densely populated three-mile radius of 278,000 residents, underscores the site’s potential to serve a broad customer base. San Jose’s growing population and robust household incomes further enhance the long-term value of this acquisition.

Key neighborhoods such as East Hills, Mayfair North, and Mt. Pleasant lie within the facility’s service radius, providing access to a vibrant mix of residential and commercial clients. As part of Silicon Valley, San Jose continues to attract new residents and businesses, driving demand for self-storage in the region.

Expert Insights on SmartStop’s Growth Strategy

Wayne Johnson, President of SmartStop Self Storage REIT, noted that these acquisitions align with the company’s commitment to investing in top-tier facilities within high-growth areas. He explained that both properties are well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of urban populations while bolstering SmartStop’s presence in competitive markets.

The acquisitions reflect SmartStop’s broader strategy of targeting urban hubs where demographic trends, income levels, and infrastructure support sustained growth. With these additions, the company continues to establish itself as a leader in the self-storage sector, delivering premium services to customers across North America.

A Robust Portfolio With Global Reach

As of December 2024, SmartStop Self Storage REIT manages a portfolio of 209 operating properties spanning 22 states, the District of Columbia, and Canada. This portfolio includes approximately 148,500 storage units and 16.7 million rentable square feet. SmartStop’s Canadian holdings comprise 38 facilities, adding 32,900 units and 3.4 million rentable square feet to its international operations.

Through its subsidiary, SmartStop REIT Advisors, LLC, the company also sponsors other self-storage programs, demonstrating its diversified approach to the industry. The company’s continued investment in premium facilities highlights its ability to adapt to market demands while maintaining a customer-first approach.

Future Implications for Self-Storage Markets

SmartStop’s recent acquisitions signal continued growth in the self-storage industry, driven by urbanization and shifting consumer needs. The company’s focus on densely populated areas with strong economic indicators positions it to capture a significant share of the market. As more individuals and businesses seek flexible, secure storage solutions, SmartStop’s strategic investments ensure it remains a trusted provider in both established and emerging markets.