When you store data on decentralized storage, a system that spreads files across many computers instead of one company’s server. Also known as peer-to-peer storage, it removes middlemen like Amazon or Google—but it doesn’t come free. Unlike cloud services where you pay a monthly fee, decentralized storage often charges by the gigabyte per year, with prices varying wildly depending on the network.
The biggest players—IPFS, a protocol for distributing files across nodes without a central server, Filecoin, a blockchain-based storage marketplace where users pay miners to host data, and Arweave, a one-time payment model that pays miners forever to keep your data alive—each have very different pricing models. IPFS itself is free to use, but you need a node or service like Pinata to keep your files online, which costs $5–$20/month. Filecoin charges around $2–$6 per TB per month, depending on demand and storage location. Arweave’s one-time fee? Roughly $5 to store 1 GB forever. That’s not a typo.
Why does this matter? If you’re building a Web3 app, running a decentralized website, or storing NFT metadata, you can’t just guess your storage budget. Some projects get burned because they assumed decentralized storage was cheap—until their file grew to 100 GB and their monthly bill jumped to $300. Others save thousands by locking data into Arweave upfront. The real cost isn’t just the number—it’s how long you need the data, how often it’s accessed, and whether you trust a single provider to keep it alive.
And it’s not just about money. Storage networks differ in speed, durability, and how they handle data recovery. Filecoin lets you choose where your data lives—useful if you need compliance with regional laws. Arweave guarantees permanence but doesn’t let you edit files. IPFS is fast for sharing but won’t keep your files unless someone’s actively pinning them. These aren’t just tech specs—they’re trade-offs that affect your wallet and your project’s survival.
Looking at the posts below, you’ll find real-world examples: how traders use decentralized storage for on-chain data, why some crypto exchanges avoid it due to cost volatility, and how airdrop projects cut expenses by storing metadata on Arweave instead of centralized servers. Whether you’re a developer, investor, or just curious, understanding these costs helps you avoid hidden fees, spot scams, and pick the right system for your needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—but knowing the numbers gives you power.
Decentralized storage can save you up to 90% on cloud bills - but hidden fees and crypto volatility make the real cost more complex. Here’s what you actually pay in 2025.