Brace Yourself: 10 US Cities Where Parking Costs a Fortune

If you live in a city, chances are that parking is a constant source of frustration and expense. But have you ever stopped to wonder just how much it costs to park in different parts of the US?

Growing up in Jersey, I always had this lingering dread whenever I drove into Manhattan. The excitement of the city was inevitably overshadowed by the fear of parking garage prices that seemed to skyrocket every time I glanced up at the signs.

According to a recent study by parking app SpotHero, the average monthly parking rate in major cities across the country can range from $200 to over $600. But there are garages in NYC that cost over $40 for an hour!

Based on the data of SpotHero and Zutobi’s research on the lowest price for 3 hour parking, these cities top the list as the most expensive places to park in the US.

1. New York City, NY

• Lowest Price for 3 Hours Parking: $17

Forget about finding a parking spot in Manhattan without breaking the bank, but you will have better luck in other boroughs! With average parking costs reaching sky-high levels, you could almost rent a decent apartment for the same price in many other states.

According to Zutobi’s data, although Boston may have the highest 3-hour parking price, it is generally easier to find a cheaper spot there than in the Big Apple. Therefore, I’m topping this list with NYC.

2. Boston, MA

• Lowest Price for 3 Hours Parking: $20

This city is ranked the most expensive in the country for short-term parking, clocking in at the lowest of $20 for 3 hours.

Between dodging aggressive drivers and navigating those winding streets, finding a spot feels like winning the lottery. So, if you score a spot near Fenway, hold onto it.

3. Philadelphia, PA

• Lowest Price for 3 Hours Parking: $15

If you’re planning a trip to the City of Brotherly Love, make sure to budget for parking fees! With the lowest 3 hour rate coming in at $15, it’s safe to say that finding affordable parking is not an easy task here.

But don’t let that discourage you from exploring this historic city. There are plenty of public transportation options available, including buses, trains and even bike sharing programs.

4. San Francisco, CA

• Lowest Price for 3 Hours Parking: $15

If you thought rent prices were high in San Francisco, just wait until you see their parking rates. Known for its steep hills and iconic Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco also has some of the highest parking rates in the country.

If driving down the steep Chinatown streets while avoiding side-view mirrors wasn’t harrowing enough, finding a parking spot may just be the icing on the cake. But if you’re determined to visit, try looking for street parking in less busy areas and take public transport in.

5. Chicago, IL

• Lowest Price for 3 Hours Parking: $14

Between the skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza, you’d better budget as much for parking as you do for sightseeing. With the lowest 3 hour rate being $14, it’s clear that parking in the Windy City can add up quickly.

But don’t let that discourage you from exploring all that Chicago. There are plenty of public transportation options available, including the famous “L” train system which can take you to popular destinations like Millennium Park and Navy Pier.

6. Washington, DC

• Lowest Price for 3 Hours Parking: $11.95

Home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the US, I can attest that it is hard to find parking in Washington, DC, at all. Aside from the price, convoluted signs once cost me a $100 parking ticket, and that was after I had looked for a spot for 45 minutes.

If you plan to spend the day downtown, it may be worth looking into alternative transportation options, especially during peak tourist season.

But if you do decide to brave the roads and park in DC, make sure to download a parking app or check online for discounted rates and coupons at certain garages.

7. Buffalo, NY

• Lowest Price for 3 Hours Parking: $11.03

Having gone to fulfill my NY bucket list of eating buffalo wings in Buffalo, finding parking without a restaurant lot can be difficult. With some research and planning, you can find more affordable parking options in certain areas outside of downtown.

But be warned, parking regulations can vary greatly depending on which part of Buffalo you’re in. So keep an eye out for signs and make sure to read them carefully to avoid any surprise tickets.

8. Seattle, WA

• Lowest Price for 3 Hours Parking: $10

Rounding out the top 7 is the Emerald City, Seattle. The Pacific Northwest may be known for its natural beauty and coffee culture, but its parking rates are high for the country.

With the lowest 3-hour price of $10, finding affordable parking in Seattle can be a challenge. But with options like car-sharing services and bike rentals, there are alternatives that can save you both money and hassle.

9. Charlotte, NC

• Lowest Price for 3 Hours Parking: $10

Charlotte may not be on everyone’s radar when it comes to expensive parking spots. But with a lowest 3 hour rate of $10, it makes the top list for most expensive cities to park in.

But don’t let that deter you from exploring this southern gem. With plenty of public transportation options and walkable areas, you can enjoy all that Charlotte has to offer without breaking the bank on parking fees.

10. Las Vegas, NV

• Lowest Price for 3 Hours Parking: $10

Parking in Las Vegas is like playing a slot machine—you never know how much it’s going to cost you! Between the neon lights and the casinos, you might feel like you need to bet big just to leave your car.

Finding a spot on the Strip? Good luck; You’ll probably end up parking somewhere in the next county. And those valet fees? They can easily add up if you plan on making multiple stops in one night.

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