The US Parking Report – Best & Worst US Cities

The Best and Worst Cities in the US for Parking in 2025.

Traveling in an unfamiliar city can bring all kinds of stress, from navigating directions to getting to grips with different speed regulations. There’s also the grueling task of finding a parking spot that isn’t going to cost a fortune and will keep your vehicle secure.

We want to explore the best parking options in popular US cities, by looking into the most affordable and secure car parks. We will also explore accessible parking with amenities such as valet parking, EV charging and the top-rated options for each city.

By using a reliable parking source, we will be able to delve into popular US cities to find reliable parking for drivers. So, buckle your seatbelts as we commence the best and worst cities in the US for parking.

Before we start, we would like to remind you that here at Zutobi, we have built an all-in-one app with everything you need for your Driving Theory Prep.

The Cities with the Best Availability for Parking

To make your scouring for a parking spot a little easier, we delved into available car parks for each below US city.

We have ranked each city on 8 important factors ranging from car park amenities to customer reviews and the ever-important pricing. A full list of factors included in the ranking can be found in the methodology. Cities were ranked based on a normalized score calculated by combining their scores on each of our 8 factors.

1 – Minneapolis, Minnesota

Car Parks Score: 9.23/10Topping the list for car park availability is Minneapolis, Minnesota. Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, this vibrant Midwestern city is known for its parks, lakes, and dynamic arts scene. Minneapolis excels in parking accessibility, with a well-developed infrastructure that includes numerous secure and conveniently located parking facilities. The city stands out for its user-friendly parking experience, catering to both residents and the influx of tourists year-round. Whether you’re visiting museums, attending cultural events, or exploring downtown, Minneapolis ensures a seamless and affordable parking experience.

2 – Newark, New Jersey

Car Parks Score: 7.42/10Sharing second place is Newark, New Jersey. As a major transportation hub and home to Newark Liberty International Airport, the city places a strong emphasis on accessible and efficient parking options. Newark impresses with a mix of multi-level parking garages, covered lots, and well-marked accessible spaces. With numerous transit connections and commercial centers, the city’s parking infrastructure supports both daily commuters and visiting travelers, reflecting a thoughtful urban planning approach.

3 – Oakland, California

Car Parks Score: 7.42/10Also in second place is Oakland, California, the bustling city in the East Bay region. Known for its cultural diversity and proximity to San Francisco, Oakland provides robust parking solutions with a significant number of self-park garages and wheelchair-accessible spaces. The city offers well-rated parking locations distributed throughout its districts, helping to alleviate congestion and improve driver convenience. Whether exploring local markets, galleries, or lakeside areas, Oakland ensures a reliable and accessible parking experience.

The Cities with the Most Accessible Car Parks

Wheelchair accessibility is essential for some customers and makes a roadtrip much easier for people with disabilities. Here are the cities with the most accessible wheelchair access car parks:

1 – Minneapolis, Minnesota

Wheelchair Accessible Car Parks: 40Leading the nation for accessible parking options is Minneapolis, Minnesota. A city celebrated for its green spaces, cultural districts, and bike-friendly infrastructure, Minneapolis also goes above and beyond in ensuring inclusivity for drivers with disabilities. With 40 wheelchair-accessible car parks, it reflects a strong commitment to universal design and equal access. Whether you’re exploring the bustling downtown or relaxing by the lakes, Minneapolis offers a parking experience that is both practical and accommodating to all visitors.

2 – Memphis, Tennessee

Wheelchair Accessible Car Parks: 24Coming in second is Memphis, Tennessee — the birthplace of blues and home to the legendary Graceland. The city ensures visitors of all mobility levels can navigate with ease, providing 24 wheelchair-accessible car parks strategically distributed across its neighborhoods. From cultural landmarks to downtown eateries, Memphis offers inclusive infrastructure that welcomes every traveler and local resident alike.

3 – Cleveland, Ohio

Wheelchair Accessible Car Parks: 23Rounding out the top three is Cleveland, Ohio, a city known for its sports culture and iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. With 23 accessible car parks, Cleveland demonstrates a clear focus on inclusivity and ease of movement for all drivers. The city’s urban layout and thoughtful infrastructure make it easier for individuals with disabilities to enjoy all that Cleveland has to offer — from lakefront parks to vibrant downtown events.

The Cities with the Most EV Charging Car Parks

The revelation of electric vehicles has allowed drivers to make a greener choice when it comes to their CO2 footprint. But how are communities responding to a greater amount of EVs on the road? We wanted to find the cities with the most EV charging car parks:

1 – Chicago, Illinois

EV Charging Car Parks: 18Chicago takes the lead in the electric vehicle revolution with the highest number of EV charging car parks among U.S. cities. The Windy City is well-known for its iconic skyline, deep-dish pizza, and now its commitment to green mobility. With 18 designated EV charging car parks, Chicago is setting the standard for future-ready infrastructure. The city’s charging network is spread across business districts and residential neighborhoods, making it easier for EV drivers to stay powered on the go.

2 – Memphis, Tennessee

EV Charging Car Parks: 15Memphis continues to shine in the transportation space — this time, in EV readiness. With 15 charging car parks, the city ranks second in the nation for electric vehicle accessibility. From downtown to the suburbs, Memphis offers ample opportunities for EV owners to recharge as they explore the city’s rich musical heritage and culinary scene. It’s a strong sign that Memphis is charging toward a more sustainable future.

2 – Baltimore, Maryland

EV Charging Car Parks: 15Tied for second place is Baltimore, Maryland, a city where innovation meets historic charm. With 15 EV charging car parks available, Baltimore offers convenience for eco-conscious commuters and travelers. Whether you’re navigating the Inner Harbor or venturing through one of the city’s many neighborhoods, Baltimore’s EV infrastructure supports a cleaner, greener mode of transportation across the cityscape.

3 – Los Angeles, California

EV Charging Car Parks: 12Securing the third spot is Los Angeles, California — the city of stars, sunshine, and now, sustainability. With 12 EV charging car parks across its sprawling metropolitan area, LA is accelerating its transition toward electric mobility. Known for its car-centric culture, Los Angeles is embracing the future by making EV charging more accessible for both residents and visitors. Whether you’re cruising through Hollywood or commuting in from Santa Monica, LA’s growing EV infrastructure ensures you’re never far from a charging point.

The Cities with the Most Valet Car Parks

Car park valeting allows shoppers and visitors a service to fit in with their lifestyle, a convenient hand car wash and valeting operation located within the car park of their local shopping center or store. Here are the cities with the most valet parking:

1 – New York City, New York

Valet Car Parks: 29Leading the way in valet convenience is New York City, with an impressive 29 valet car parks. In a city where space is at a premium and traffic is constant, valet services provide an essential solution for both residents and visitors. Whether you’re headed to a Broadway show, fine dining in Manhattan, or meetings in Midtown, NYC offers extensive valet options that turn parking from a hassle into a seamless experience.

2 – San Francisco, California

Valet Car Parks: 21Coming in second is San Francisco, California — the city of hills, innovation, and iconic bay views. With 21 valet car parks available, San Francisco makes navigating its famously steep streets far less stressful. From Union Square shopping to tech district meetings, valet parking enhances the urban experience by giving drivers a quick and elegant way to transition from their cars to the city’s vibrant destinations.

3 – Washington, D.C.

Valet Car Parks: 20Rounding out the top three is Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital. With 20 valet car parks strategically located across key areas, the city ensures drivers can easily access cultural landmarks, government buildings, and upscale dining. In a place where precision and punctuality matter, D.C.’s valet offerings cater to both convenience and professionalism, helping visitors focus on their agenda without worrying about where to park.

The Cities with the Most Covered Car Parks

Security is a huge concern for many drivers, especially when visiting a city for the first time. Car parks that are covered tend to attract less thieves, while also protecting your vehicle from bad weather. These are the cities with the most covered car parks:

1 – Minneapolis, Minnesota

Covered Car Parks: 41Taking the top spot is Minneapolis, Minnesota — a city known for its snowy winters and forward-thinking infrastructure. With 41 covered car parks, Minneapolis provides exceptional shelter and convenience for drivers year-round. Whether you’re commuting downtown, visiting the theater district, or heading to a sporting event, covered parking in this city ensures your vehicle stays protected from the elements while enhancing overall ease of access.

2 – New York City, New York

Covered Car Parks: 28New York City ranks second with 28 covered car parks across its five boroughs. In the city that never sleeps, finding a safe and weather-shielded place to leave your car is a major advantage. From the financial hub of Manhattan to vibrant neighborhoods in Brooklyn and Queens, NYC’s network of covered facilities helps drivers protect their vehicles while navigating one of the busiest cities in the world.

2 – Washington, D.C.

Covered Car Parks: 28Also sharing second place is the U.S. capital, Washington, D.C. With 28 covered car parks, the city caters to a wide variety of commuters and visitors, whether they’re headed to federal buildings, museums, or high-end restaurants. Washington’s parking infrastructure offers secure, climate-resistant spaces that reflect the city’s commitment to both accessibility and urban efficiency.

2 – Chicago, Illinois

Covered Car Parks: 28Tied for second is Chicago, Illinois — the Windy City that experiences everything from snowstorms to scorching summer heat. With 28 covered car parks, Chicago provides much-needed protection and peace of mind for drivers. These parking structures are spread throughout the city’s downtown and neighborhood areas, making it easier for residents, workers, and tourists alike to park safely in any weather.

3 – Boston, Massachusetts

Covered Car Parks: 26Boston, with its blend of historic charm and bustling modernity, ranks third with 26 covered car parks. In a city where narrow streets and unpredictable New England weather can complicate parking, these facilities offer a dependable solution. Whether you’re headed to the Financial District, Fenway Park, or strolling through Back Bay, Boston’s covered parking makes urban navigation easier and more comfortable.

3 – Jersey City, New Jersey

Covered Car Parks: 26Also tied in third place is Jersey City, New Jersey. Positioned just across the river from Manhattan, Jersey City has become a growing hub for commuters and young professionals. With 26 covered car parks, the city ensures drivers have access to protected and convenient parking, whether they’re catching a PATH train, working in the downtown core, or enjoying waterfront attractions.

3 – Los Angeles, California

Covered Car Parks: 26Los Angeles, California — famous for its car culture and sun-drenched boulevards — also boasts 26 covered car parks. These facilities are a crucial asset in a city where temperatures soar and street parking is notoriously scarce. From West Hollywood to Downtown LA, covered car parks offer shaded relief and added security, supporting the city’s continuous flow of drivers in a sprawling metropolis.

The Cities with the Most Uncovered Lot Car Parks

Some cities had more uncovered parking than others. These are the cities with the most uncovered lot parking:

1 – Raleigh, North Carolina

Uncovered Lot Car Parks: 25Topping the list is Raleigh, North Carolina — a city known for its research centers, leafy suburbs, and vibrant tech scene. With 25 uncovered lot car parks, Raleigh combines convenience with simplicity, offering drivers plenty of surface-level parking options throughout the city. Whether you’re visiting the State Capitol, NC State University, or one of Raleigh’s thriving local districts, parking remains straightforward and accessible thanks to this robust inventory of open-air lots.

1 – El Paso, Texas

Uncovered Lot Car Parks: 25Also sharing the number one spot is El Paso, Texas. Nestled along the U.S.–Mexico border, this desert city offers 25 uncovered car parks, perfect for those who prefer quick, walk-up access. El Paso’s abundance of surface parking lots makes it easy for locals and tourists alike to navigate the downtown area, visit cultural attractions, or access nearby restaurants and retail centers — all without the stress of multi-level garages or underground parking.

2 – Cincinnati, Ohio

Uncovered Lot Car Parks: 24Claiming second place is Cincinnati, Ohio, a historic riverfront city that balances modern energy with classic charm. With 24 uncovered lot car parks, Cincinnati supports a driver-friendly environment that caters to everyday commuters and weekend visitors alike. Whether you’re exploring Over-the-Rhine, catching a game at Great American Ball Park, or dining along the waterfront, uncovered lots across the city provide ample, easy-to-use parking options.

3 – Dallas, Texas

Uncovered Lot Car Parks: 23In third place is Dallas, Texas — a sprawling metropolis that blends Southern hospitality with big-city business and culture. With 23 uncovered lot car parks, Dallas ensures that drivers can find open-air parking with ease, especially in high-traffic zones like Deep Ellum, Uptown, and the Arts District. These surface lots are ideal for quick stops or event parking, offering hassle-free access across one of Texas’s most dynamic cities.

The Cities with the Most Top-Rated Car Parks

Some people prefer not to skimp on parking spots, to make sure their cars are secure and out of reach from thieves, and rightly so. We want to delve into the top-rated car parks from visitors who have used the car parks before and were satisfied.

1 – Jersey City, New Jersey

Top-Rated Car Parks per mi²: 1.49Jersey City claims the top spot with the highest density of ‘excellent’ rated car parks in the country — 1.49 per square mile. As a key commuter hub just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, the city offers not only convenience but premium quality when it comes to parking. With 22 top-rated facilities packed into a compact 15 square mile area, Jersey City stands out for both accessibility and driver satisfaction.

2 – Newark, New Jersey

Top-Rated Car Parks per mi²: 0.58Also tied for second is Newark, New Jersey — a city rapidly redefining its urban mobility game. With 14 car parks rated ‘excellent’ across a 24 square mile area, Newark matches San Francisco in top-rated parking density. As a major transport center, Newark ensures that drivers benefit from safe, clean, and reliable facilities whether they’re catching a flight, attending an event, or commuting into NYC.

2 – San Francisco, California

Top-Rated Car Parks per mi²: 0.58San Francisco takes second place with 27 highly rated car parks spread across its famously hilly 47 square mile landscape — a density of 0.58 top-rated parks per mi². Known for its innovation and tight city layout, San Francisco combines functionality and user experience, making it easier for drivers to find dependable parking near major hotspots like the Embarcadero, Mission District, and Financial District.

3 – Boston, Massachusetts

Top-Rated Car Parks per mi²: 0.46Ranking third is Boston, Massachusetts, where history meets smart city planning. With 22 excellent-rated car parks in just 48 square miles, Boston delivers a strong ratio of quality to space. Whether you’re navigating cobblestone streets near Beacon Hill or parking near the bustling Seaport District, drivers in Boston can count on well-reviewed parking experiences in key areas of the city.

The Cheapest Cities for Parking

Everybody knows that running a car isn’t cheap, so why would you want to splash the cash on expensive car parking? There are plenty of affordable car parks in each city, but which cities have the cheapest price for a three-hour stay? Here are our results:

1 – Cleveland, Ohio

Lowest 3-Hour Parking Rate: $2.25Cleveland, Ohio tops the list as the most budget-friendly city for parking, offering rates as low as $2.25 for 3 hours. Known for its sports culture, lakeside views, and revitalized downtown, Cleveland makes it easy on your wallet whether you’re parking near Playhouse Square or catching a game at Progressive Field. Affordable parking is just another way this Midwest city keeps accessibility a top priority for visitors and locals alike.

1 – El Paso, Texas

Lowest 3-Hour Parking Rate: $2.25Sharing the top spot is El Paso, Texas — a warm, welcoming city where your dollar stretches further, even in parking. At just $2.25 for 3 hours, El Paso’s parking rates reflect its overall affordability and ease of access. Whether you’re stopping downtown or visiting one of the city’s cultural landmarks, drivers can rest easy knowing they won’t be hit with steep fees for short-term parking.

2 – Tulsa, Oklahoma

Lowest 3-Hour Parking Rate: $2.38Tulsa, Oklahoma takes second place with incredibly low parking rates at just $2.38 for a 3-hour stay. This up-and-coming city blends Art Deco charm with modern amenities, and its parking policies follow suit — simple, low-cost, and driver-friendly. With revitalized downtown areas and growing cultural districts, Tulsa makes navigating the city both convenient and cost-effective.

3 – Minneapolis, Minnesota

Lowest 3-Hour Parking Rate: $3.22Minneapolis, Minnesota ranks third among the most affordable major cities for parking, with a low rate of just $3.22 for 3 hours. Known for its walkable downtown, vibrant arts scene, and abundant green spaces, Minneapolis also offers accessible and reasonably priced parking. Whether you’re attending a show in the Theater District, visiting one of the lakes, or commuting for work, the city makes it easy to park without breaking the bank.

The Most Expensive Cities for Parking

Some cities are going to cost more for parking, particularly if it’s a tourist hotspot or the cost of living for residents in the city is higher. So, on the flip side, here are the most expensive cities for parking:

1 – New York City, New York

Lowest 3-Hour Parking Rate: $20.09New York City ranks as the most expensive city for parking in the U.S., with a minimum rate of $20.09 for just 3 hours. In the city that never sleeps — and where space is always at a premium — parking comes at a steep cost. Whether you’re navigating through Midtown Manhattan or attending events in Brooklyn, drivers can expect to pay top dollar for the convenience of a guaranteed spot.

2 – Anaheim, California

Lowest 3-Hour Parking Rate: $18.77Anaheim, home to Disneyland and countless entertainment venues, comes in second with a rate of $18.77. As a high-traffic tourist hub, Anaheim’s parking demand is consistently high, pushing prices up. For visitors looking to explore theme parks, sports arenas, or convention centers, planning ahead for parking costs is essential in this Southern California hotspot.

3 – Boston, Massachusetts

Lowest 3-Hour Parking Rate: $17.98Boston rounds out the top three, where a 3-hour parking stay will set you back $17.98. Known for its historic downtown and compact urban layout, Boston’s limited parking availability drives up the cost. Whether you’re heading to Beacon Hill, the North End, or Fenway Park, parking here is a premium commodity — and priced accordingly.

The Cities with the Least Accessible Car Parks

These cities, unfortunately, failed to provide car parks for those using a wheelchair. These are the cities with the least amount of accessible car parks: Omaha, Long Beach, Kansas City, Tucson, Fort Worth, Scottsdale, Santa Ana, Glendale, Colorado Springs, Toledo, Baton Rouge, Norfolk, Reno, and Jacksonville.

The Cities with the Least EV Charging Car Parks

Some cities failed to provide car parks with electric vehicle charging facilities. These are the cities with the least EV charging car parks: Omaha, Long Beach, Kansas City, Tucson, Fort Worth, Scottsdale, Santa Ana, Glendale, Colorado Springs, Toledo, Baton Rouge, Norfolk, Reno, Jacksonville, Hialeah, Tampa, Riverside, Lexington, Buffalo, Richmond, Oklahoma City, El Paso, and Tulsa.

The Cities with the Least Valet Car Parks

These cities had the lowest amount of valet car parks in the area: Omaha, Long Beach, Kansas City, Tucson, Fort Worth, Scottsdale, Santa Ana, Glendale, Colorado Springs, Toledo, Baton Rouge, Norfolk, Reno, Jacksonville, Tampa, Riverside, Lexington, Buffalo, El Paso, Tulsa, Charlotte, Orlando, St. Louis, Memphis, Cincinnati, and Raleigh, which all had 0 valet parking options.

The Cities with the Least Covered Car Parks

We will now look into the cities with the least covered car parks in the area.

These cities with the least covered car parks: Omaha, Kansas City, Tucson, Scottsdale, Santa Ana, Glendale, Colorado Springs, Toledo, Baton Rouge, Norfolk, Reno, Jacksonville, Riverside, Buffalo, and Richmond.

The Cities with the Least Uncovered Lot Car Parks

These cities had the lowest number of uncovered lot car parks:

These cities had the lowest number of uncovered lot car parks: Glendale, Toledo, Baton Rouge, Norfolk, Reno, Jacksonville, Hialeah, Long Beach, Washington, Tucson, Santa Ana, Tampa, Lexington, and Sacramento, along with Chicago.

Methodology

We started by taking a list of World Population Review’s Largest Cities in the US.

After collecting a list of cities, we used SpotHero to find parking for each city, removing any cities that didn’t have parking data available. Using the website filters, we were able to find the cheapest parking listed. Using the generic time frame of 8.30 am to 11.30 am, we were able to find parking prices. This data is accurate as of 28/04/2025.

We then used the website filters to find out which amenities were available for the city’s car parks. We repeated this process for every city until we had a full set of data for each city.

We counted the number of ‘excellent’ rated car parks for each city, to find the top-rated car parks. For a more accurate result, we found the total area (mi²) of the city, and then divided the number of ‘excellent’ car parks by the total area.

Each city was rated on 8 factors for car park availability: Lowest Price for Hourly Parking, Self-Park availability, Valet availability, how many Garage or Covered car parks are available, how many Lots or Uncovered parks are available, Wheelchair Accessibility, EV Charging availability, and the Total ‘Excellent’ Car Parks per mi².

We were then able to rank each city by each factor, giving each a normalized score out of 10 before taking an average of all of these scores to give us the final Car Park Score.

Previous Reports

The US Parking Report 2024.

The US Parking Report 2023.