How Much Does It Cost to Store an RV in California?

Published on 12/9/2025
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Many RV owners across California ask the same question: How much does RV storage actually cost? Because prices can change a lot depending on the city, the level of protection, and the size of your RV. If you live in Bakersfield or anywhere in the Central Valley, you know the heat, dust, and sun can be tough on any vehicle. So understanding storage costs is not just about budgeting — it’s about protecting your RV so it lasts longer.

This guide breaks down the real numbers. We’ll compare outdoor RV storage, covered storage, and fully enclosed storage in California. We’ll also explain why pricing varies so much, what affects the cost, and how choosing the right storage solution can save you thousands in repairs later on.

This post is part of our RV storage series. If you missed the earlier articles, you can find them here:

Now let’s break down the real costs RV owners can expect across the state of California.

Average RV Storage Prices Across California

RV storage pricing varies by region, but here are the typical statewide averages:

  • Outdoor RV Storage: $75–$250 per month
  • Covered RV Storage: $150–$400 per month
  • Fully Enclosed RV Storage: $300–$750+ per month

California has some of the highest vehicle storage costs in the country, especially in coastal cities. But Bakersfield and the Central Valley generally sit in the middle of the range, offering more space and better affordability while still providing high-level protection options.

Why RV Storage Costs More in Some Parts of California

RV storage pricing is influenced by space, demand, climate, and land value. Here’s a simple breakdown of why prices are different across the state:

1. **Coastal Cities Have Higher Land Prices**

RV storage in San Diego, Los Angeles, and the Bay Area is usually more expensive because land is expensive. Storage facilities in these areas charge more simply to cover land costs and limited space.

2. **Demand Is Higher in Vacation and Tourism Areas**

Regions near beaches, lakes, and national parks often have higher RV storage demand year-round. That demand pushes prices upward.

3. **Heat and Sun Exposure Change the Type of Storage Needed**

California has intense UV levels. In Bakersfield, the heat is even more extreme, which means outdoor storage can cause faster wear on RV roofs, seals, and paint. Because of this, many Central Valley RV owners upgrade to covered or enclosed storage — which also increases average price ranges.

4. **Security Levels Vary by Facility**

Storage locations with higher security — cameras, gated access, on-site staff, LED lighting, and license plate tracking — typically have higher monthly rates. But these features dramatically reduce theft and vandalism risks.

5. **Specialized RV Facilities Cost More but Provide More Value**

Some facilities are built specifically for RVs and oversized vehicles. This means wider aisles, taller bays, strong dust control, and overhead protection. While these spots cost more, the quality is much higher than basic self-storage lots.

If you want to explore specialized RV storage options, you can view several solutions at Elite RV & Storage:

How Bakersfield RV Storage Prices Compare

Bakersfield storage prices are often more affordable than coastal areas, but the climate here creates different challenges. Bakersfield’s extreme heat can shorten the lifespan of RV roofs, AC units, and seals. Dust storms also increase maintenance costs.

That’s why many RV owners in Kern County choose covered or enclosed options even though outdoor storage is cheaper. They want long-term protection, safer parking, and less time spent cleaning the RV after every heat wave.

Here’s the typical range we see in Bakersfield and nearby cities:

  • Outdoor RV Storage: $75–$200/month
  • Covered RV Storage: $150–$350/month
  • Enclosed RV Storage: $300–$650/month

These prices match what we shared in the last post but put Bakersfield into statewide context.

What Makes One RV Storage Price Worth More Than Another?

When comparing RV storage prices, the number alone doesn’t tell you much. What matters is the value behind the price. Here are the main factors that make some locations cost more — and why they’re often worth it.

1. **Protection From Heat and Sun**

California’s UV rays are some of the strongest in the country. Long-term exposure can fade paint, weaken fiberglass, crack seals, and damage roof coatings. Covered or enclosed storage reduces this risk dramatically.

2. **Dust and Wind Control**

Dust storms are common in the Central Valley. Dust gets inside vents, AC units, slide-outs, and compartments. Enclosed storage solves this completely, while covered storage helps reduce most of the problem.

3. **Security and Monitoring**

Theft of catalytic converters, batteries, propane tanks, and even entire RVs is on the rise in California. Secure facilities with cameras, gates, and strong lighting offer far more protection — and fewer headaches.

4. **Access and Convenience**

Facilities designed for RVs usually offer wide drive lanes, large turn radiuses, taller spaces, and smooth surfaces. This makes parking easier and reduces the risk of damage while maneuvering your RV.

5. **Long-Term Savings**

Cheaper outdoor storage may save money each month, but the long-term repair costs often outweigh the savings. Roof repairs, AC replacements, paint fading, and seal failures can cost thousands.

Choosing the right storage now protects your investment later.

Why RV Owners Across California Trust Elite RV & Storage

Elite RV & Storage is built for RVs, oversized vehicles, commercial fleets, and luxury vehicles. It’s not a basic self-storage lot — it’s a purpose-built facility with modern protection features and clean, secure parking designed for large vehicles.

RV owners across Bakersfield and Kern County love Elite for several reasons:

  • Wide drive aisles built for long RVs
  • High-level security and monitoring
  • Clean, modern facility layout
  • Covered and enclosed storage options
  • Easy access to major highways

Plus, Elite offers specialty vehicle storage that goes far beyond RVs:

Final Thoughts: What Should You Expect to Pay?

The cost to store an RV in California depends on the level of protection you choose. Outdoor storage costs the least but exposes your RV to heat, sun, and dust. Covered storage offers strong protection at a mid-range price. Fully enclosed storage offers the highest protection and the longest RV lifespan, making it the best long-term value.

If you want your RV to stay clean, safe, and ready for your next adventure, the smartest choice is a modern storage facility built for oversized vehicles — like Elite RV & Storage in Bakersfield.

To learn more or find an open storage spot, visit Elite RV & Storage or explore our oversized vehicle storage options here: Oversized Vehicle Storage.