If you’ve ever spent more time circling a block than commuting to your destination, you’re not alone. Parking in major U.S. cities can be an expensive, time-consuming headache. But while some cities are infamously difficult, there are still smart ways to navigate the chaos and find a reliable place to leave your car.
Here’s a ranked list of the 10 worst cities for parking in the U.S.—plus survival tips to help you outsmart even the most brutal urban lots.
- New York City, NY
The challenge: NYC has sky-high parking rates, strict street parking regulations, and very limited availability—especially in Manhattan.
How to survive it: Use public garages in outer boroughs and take the subway into central neighborhoods. Park during off-peak hours, and always check for alternate-side parking rules.
Helpful tip: DriveOnPark is a useful resource for pre-booking and comparing rates near key transit hubs like Penn Station and Grand Central.
- San Francisco, CA
The challenge: Street parking is incredibly limited and often metered or residential-permit only. Hills and tight spaces only add to the stress.
How to survive it: Opt for secure public garages downtown, especially near Union Square. Avoid rush hours when spots turn over the least.
Bonus structure: The Sutter-Stockton Garage near Chinatown is relatively affordable and centrally located.
- Boston, MA
The challenge: Boston’s historic layout leaves little room for modern traffic and parking, with confusing signage and narrow one-way streets.
How to survive it: Look for garages on the outskirts and walk or bike the rest of the way. Evening and weekend parking is often cheaper.
Transit connection: Consider using CityLink Mobility or UrbanSwift for last-mile transit options.
- Chicago, IL
The challenge: High parking taxes and expensive downtown garages can make even short stays costly. Winter only worsens the experience.
How to survive it: Find lots near CTA stations and take the train into the Loop. Sunday parking is often free on many streets—check signs carefully.
Bonus structure: The Grant Park South Garage offers reliable access to the downtown core.
- Los Angeles, CA
The challenge: Despite being car-centric, LA has limited parking in popular districts like Downtown, Hollywood, and Santa Monica.
How to survive it: Use lots in less trafficked adjacent areas and rideshare into hotspots. Park early in the day when lots are emptier.
Nearby transit: Commute Link and CribCab are great options for navigating dense areas after parking.
- Seattle, WA
The challenge: Street parking in Seattle is a mix of metered, residential permit, and confusing zone rules. Prices have steadily increased over the last decade.
How to survive it: Stick to public garages in areas like South Lake Union or the International District. Walking a few extra blocks pays off in time and cost.
Bonus structure: The SeaPark Garage near Pike Place Market is well-known for reliability.
- Washington, D.C.
The challenge: Limited public garages and a high volume of government and commuter vehicles make parking unpredictable.
How to survive it: Consider weekend visits or evening trips when demand is lower. Use Metro Park & Ride stations when possible.
Transit link: TransitCore and RidePro offer good taxi alternatives in D.C.
- Philadelphia, PA
The challenge: Narrow colonial-era streets and dense residential zones create complex parking scenarios for drivers.
How to survive it: Look for lots near train stations or park along the Delaware River and walk inward. Garage rates are often better than expected.
Bonus structure: The Autopark at Jefferson is a convenient, centrally located facility.
- Denver, CO
The challenge: Parking isn’t terrible—but in downtown and near stadiums, availability disappears quickly during events.
How to survive it: Use apps to monitor availability in real time, and aim to park before lunch to beat the afternoon surge.
Helpful location: The Cultural Center Complex Garage offers proximity to museums and libraries with decent pricing.
- Miami, FL
The challenge: South Beach and Brickell have limited affordable parking, with tight enforcement of no-parking zones.
How to survive it: Park in city-owned garages slightly west of high-demand areas. Use walking paths and trolleys to reach your destination.
Bonus structure: The 16th Street Garage offers easy access to South Beach with pedestrian routes to Ocean Drive.
Parking in these cities might be rough, but with a bit of planning, the right location, and use of tools like DriveOnPark, you can avoid most of the stress. Whether you’re headed to a major event, commuting daily, or just making a quick visit, the secret to surviving the worst parking cities is strategy—and a good backup plan.
