Think we Americans have enough stuff?

I’ve been curious for a while about the prevalence of storage unit facilities in the U.S. and whether this phenomena exists in other nations. So, here are the facts: The United States has more than 50,000 storage facilities out of a total of 60,000 storage facilities worldwide (including 3000 in Canada and 1000 in Australia). Currently, there is 7.3 square feet of self storage space for every man, woman and child in the nation; every American now alive could stand under the total canopy of self storage roofing at the same time.

Here’s another little factoid that might surprise you (or not). Americans spend more each year on shoes, jewelry, and watches ($100 billion) than on higher education ($99 billion). WTF!

For more jolts of reality, check out 21 Surprising Statistics That Reveal How Much Stuff We Actually Own by Joshua Becker.