5 Worst Cities for Parking

By Adam Verwymeren, Networx

It’s the bane of big-city life, the never-ending search for a parking spot is one of the most frustrating things about living in a densely populated area. And after all that time spent circling the block, you still have to shell out a pretty penny at the meter or in the garage once you actually find a space.

Unless you’re willing to give up city life and move to the country (or give up your car in favor of public transportation), you can’t avoid the expensive realities of parking a car. However, by arming yourself with a bit of knowledge, you can make parking an easier, cheaper act in the future.

The Worst Cities

Not all cities are equal when it comes to parking. Some big cities, like Phoenix, embrace the automotive life, while in others, like New York, a monthly parking spot can force you to take out a second mortgage.

The good news, according to Colliers International’s recent survey of parking lots, is that monthly parking rates actually dropped by 0.2 percent in 2011, with the median rate coming in at $155.22 per month. The bad news, however, is that it is still incredibly expensive to park in many major cities in the U.S. Here are the top five worst cities to park in.

New York — Midtown ($541) & New York — Downtown ($533)

Unsurprisingly, the Big Apple takes the top two spots on the Colliers survey. Most things are more expensive in the country’s largest city and parking is no exception. At more than $500 a month, a parking spot in Manhattan costs more than an iPad. And over the average lifespan of a car, a New Yorker will spend roughly $71,000 — a hefty sum indeed.

Boston ($438)

While the Big Dig might now be over, the automotive headaches continue for Bostonians as their town ranks second on the list of most expensive cities to park in. Naturally, Boston is second only to New York. Even when it comes to parking, these two towns are forever locked in rivalry.

San Francisco ($375)

San Francisco may have the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay, and a plethora of stunning views from atop its many peaks, but its steep streets are matched by the steep prices people pay to keep a car.

Next: Philadelphia, Seattle, & how to park smarter

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Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Debbie C.

4:42AM PDT on May 4, 2012

This makes me glad I have a driveway to park on!!

May 4
send a green star

Eternal G.

7:05PM PDT on Mar 26, 2012

Where are all the places in Europe for example?

March 26
send a green star

7:03PM PDT on Mar 26, 2012

Helen K.

4:20PM PST on Mar 6, 2012

I once thoughtlessly said yes to having lunch with an old friend who was passing through San Francisco. I innocently jumped in my car, allowed three quarters of an hour to get there and spent almost the whole of our lunch time frantically looking for somewhere to park! My friend was very annoyed and upset that I was so late and almost went back to her hotel feeling "stood up". I will never forget that embarrassing day. The SF opera house is fine because there is expensive underground parking within easy walking distance - but if you are not familiar with where you are going, think twice or do extensive research on Google for parking lots. (And take lots and lots of cash!)