The US Parking Report – Best & Worst US Cities

The Best and Worst Cities in the US for Parking in 2026.

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: 7.02/10

Topping the list for car park availability once again 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 availability, with 27 self-park facilities, 25 covered car parks and 14 car parks rated ‘excellent’, all starting from just $4.00 per hour. 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 – St. Paul, Minnesota

Car Parks Score: 7.00/10

Just a fraction of a point behind is Minneapolis’s twin city, St. Paul, Minnesota. The state capital offers the cheapest hourly parking in our study at just $1.50, alongside 30 self-park options and 21 wheelchair-accessible car parks. With its historic Cathedral Hill, riverfront parks and lively downtown, St. Paul makes it easy for drivers to find a spot close to where they need to be, proving that great parking doesn’t have to come at a high price.

3 – Oakland, California

Car Parks Score: 6.99/10

In third 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 27 self-park garages, 18 wheelchair-accessible car parks and 18 uncovered lots. The city offers 14 ‘excellent’-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 – Houston, Texas

Wheelchair Accessible Car Parks: 25

Leading the nation for accessible parking options is Houston, Texas. As the largest city in the Lone Star State and home to NASA’s Space Center, Houston spans more than 640 square miles, and it makes sure drivers with disabilities can get around all of it. With 25 wheelchair-accessible car parks, the city reflects a strong commitment to universal design and equal access. Whether you’re exploring the Museum District, catching a game downtown, or visiting the Galleria, Houston offers a parking experience that is both practical and accommodating to all visitors.

2 – Memphis, Tennessee

Wheelchair Accessible Car Parks: 23

Coming in second once again 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 23 wheelchair-accessible car parks strategically distributed across its neighborhoods. From Beale Street to downtown eateries, Memphis offers inclusive infrastructure that welcomes every traveler and local resident alike.

3 – St. Paul, Minnesota

Wheelchair Accessible Car Parks: 21

Sharing third place is St. Paul, Minnesota. With 21 accessible car parks, Minnesota’s capital demonstrates a clear focus on inclusivity and ease of movement for all drivers. The city’s compact downtown and thoughtful infrastructure make it easier for individuals with disabilities to enjoy all that St. Paul has to offer — from the State Capitol to riverfront parks and vibrant downtown events.

3 – Sacramento, California

Wheelchair Accessible Car Parks: 21

Also tied for third is Sacramento, California’s capital city. With 21 wheelchair-accessible car parks, Sacramento makes it simple for every driver to reach the State Capitol, Old Sacramento’s historic waterfront, or the city’s growing food scene. Its accessible parking network reflects a city that puts convenience for all residents and visitors at the heart of its planning.

3 – Fort Worth, Texas

Wheelchair Accessible Car Parks: 21

Rounding out the top three is Fort Worth, Texas, where cowboy heritage meets a modern cultural district. Fort Worth offers 21 wheelchair-accessible car parks, a big step up for a city that had none in our previous report. Whether you’re heading to the Stockyards, Sundance Square, or the city’s world-class museums, drivers of all abilities can park with confidence.

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: 18

Chicago keeps the lead in the electric vehicle revolution with the highest number of EV charging car parks among U.S. cities for another year. 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: 15

Memphis 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 for the second year running. 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.

3 – Washington, D.C.

EV Charging Car Parks: 14

Securing the third spot is Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital. With 14 EV charging car parks available, D.C. offers convenience for eco-conscious commuters and travelers. Whether you’re visiting the National Mall, heading to a meeting on Capitol Hill, or exploring Georgetown, Washington’s EV infrastructure supports a cleaner, greener mode of transportation across the city.

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: 29

Leading the way in valet convenience for another year 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: 22

Coming in second is San Francisco, California — the city of hills, innovation, and iconic bay views. With 22 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 – Boston, Massachusetts

Valet Car Parks: 15

Rounding out the top three is Boston, Massachusetts. With 15 valet car parks spread across its compact, historic center, the city ensures drivers can easily reach landmarks, business districts, and upscale dining without circling narrow streets for a space. Whether you’re heading to the Seaport, Back Bay, or a game at Fenway Park, Boston’s valet offerings let visitors focus on their plans rather than on 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 – Washington, D.C.

Covered Car Parks: 29

Taking the top spot is the U.S. capital, Washington, D.C. With 29 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, keeping your vehicle protected from summer humidity and winter storms alike.

2 – Chicago, Illinois

Covered Car Parks: 28

In second place 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 – New York City, New York

Covered Car Parks: 27

New York City ranks third with 27 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.

The Cities with the Most Uncovered Lot Car Parks

1 – Raleigh, North Carolina

Uncovered Lot Car Parks: 26

Topping the list for the second year in a row is Raleigh, North Carolina — a city known for its research centers, leafy suburbs, and vibrant tech scene. With 26 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 easy and accessible thanks to this robust inventory of open-air lots.

1 – Tulsa, Oklahoma

Uncovered Lot Car Parks: 26

Also sharing the number one spot is Tulsa, Oklahoma. This up-and-coming city, famous for its Art Deco architecture and Route 66 heritage, offers 26 uncovered car parks, perfect for those who prefer quick, walk-up access. Tulsa’s abundance of surface parking lots makes it easy for locals and tourists alike to navigate the downtown area, visit the Gathering Place, or access nearby restaurants and retail centers — all without the stress of multi-level garages or underground parking.

2 – Tampa, Florida

Uncovered Lot Car Parks: 24

Claiming second place is Tampa, Florida, a sunny waterfront city that balances beach-town energy with big-city attractions. With 24 uncovered lot car parks, Tampa supports a driver-friendly environment that caters to everyday commuters and weekend visitors alike. Whether you’re strolling the Riverwalk, exploring historic Ybor City, or catching a game at Raymond James Stadium, uncovered lots across the city provide ample, easy-to-use parking options.

3 – Dallas, Texas

Uncovered Lot Car Parks: 22

In third place is Dallas, Texas — a sprawling metropolis that blends Southern hospitality with big-city business and culture. With 22 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.

3 – Newark, New Jersey

Uncovered Lot Car Parks: 22

Sharing third place is Newark, New Jersey. As a major transportation hub and home to Newark Liberty International Airport, the city offers 22 uncovered lots for drivers who need fast, simple parking. From Ironbound restaurants to Prudential Center events, Newark’s open-air car parks make it easy to park up and get going.

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: 1.60

Jersey City claims the top spot once again with the highest density of ‘excellent’ rated car parks in the country — 1.60 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 24 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: 0.58

In second place 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 edges out San Francisco by the narrowest of margins. 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.

3 – San Francisco, California

Top-Rated Car Parks per mi²: 0.58

San Francisco takes third place with 27 highly rated car parks — the most of any city in our study — spread across its famously hilly 47 square mile landscape. 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.

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 an hour’s stay? Here are our results:

1 – Albuquerque, New Mexico

Lowest Hourly Parking Rate: $1.50

Albuquerque, New Mexico tops the list as the most budget-friendly city for parking, offering rates as low as $1.50 per hour. Known for its high-desert landscapes, historic Old Town, and world-famous International Balloon Fiesta, Albuquerque makes it easy on your wallet whether you’re parking downtown or heading out to explore Nob Hill. Affordable parking is just another way this Southwestern city keeps accessibility a top priority for visitors and locals alike.

1 – St. Paul, Minnesota

Lowest Hourly Parking Rate: $1.50

Sharing the top spot is St. Paul, Minnesota — a welcoming city where your dollar stretches further, even in parking. At just $1.50 per hour, St. Paul’s parking rates reflect its overall affordability and ease of access. Whether you’re stopping downtown, visiting the Minnesota State Capitol, or catching a show at the Ordway, drivers can rest easy knowing they won’t be hit with steep fees for short-term parking.

2 – El Paso, Texas

Lowest Hourly Parking Rate: $2.00

El Paso, Texas takes second place with incredibly low parking rates at just $2.00 per hour. Nestled along the U.S.–Mexico border, this warm desert city is one of the most affordable places in the country to park, just as it was in our previous report. Whether you’re exploring downtown or visiting one of the city’s cultural landmarks, El Paso makes getting around both convenient and cost-effective.

2 – Louisville, Kentucky

Lowest Hourly Parking Rate: $2.00

Also sharing second place is Louisville, Kentucky, home of the Kentucky Derby and the famous Louisville Slugger. With parking starting from just $2.00 per hour, the city makes it easy to enjoy its bourbon distilleries, riverfront parks, and lively NuLu district without breaking the bank.

2 – Tulsa, Oklahoma

Lowest Hourly Parking Rate: $2.00

Tulsa, Oklahoma also comes in second with rates of just $2.00 per hour. 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 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Lowest Hourly Parking Rate: $2.25

Oklahoma City ranks third among the most affordable major cities for parking, with a low rate of just $2.25 per hour. Known for its Bricktown entertainment district, western heritage, and growing food scene, Oklahoma City also offers accessible and reasonably priced parking. Whether you’re catching a Thunder game, visiting the National Memorial, 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 – Aurora, Colorado

Lowest Hourly Parking Rate: $20.00

Aurora, Colorado ranks as the most expensive city for parking in the U.S., with a minimum rate of $20.00 for just one hour. Located just east of Denver and close to Denver International Airport, Aurora has very few car parks listed, and the limited choice comes at a steep cost. Whether you’re visiting the Anschutz Medical Campus or heading to the Stanley Marketplace, drivers should plan ahead for parking costs.

2 – Boston, Massachusetts

Lowest Hourly Parking Rate: $18.02

Boston comes in second, where an hour of parking will set you back $18.02. 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.

3 – New York City, New York

Lowest Hourly Parking Rate: $16.99

New York City rounds out the top three, with a minimum rate of $16.99 per hour. 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.

The Cities with the Least Accessible Car Parks

The Cities with the Least EV Charging Car Parks

The Cities with the Least Valet Car Parks

The Cities with the Least Covered Car Parks

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

The Cities with the Least Uncovered Lot Car Parks

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 hourly 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 23/09/2026.

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 2025.

The US Parking Report 2024.

The US Parking Report 2023.