The ultimate guide to finding a monthly parking spot

Looking for a monthly parking spot in New York, Chicago, San Francisco, or any major cities? Here’s a guide to help you find the best one for you.

If you currently live in a bustling city, you’re familiar with the struggle of finding the perfect parking spot — especially smack in the middle of downtown.

For drivers in major cities, the parking anxiety —  or feeling anxiety or stress when parking —  is all too real.

In high demand areas, such as the Upper East Side area in New York or Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, there’s constant worry among commuters about where to park and how much it will cost.

And if you’re in outdoor parking, there’s the fear whether you can keep your spot without getting served expensive parking tickets or, worse, getting towed.

But did you know the time you spent circling the block for an open spot is costing you money too? In fact, it’s costing you a lot.

American commuters spend 17 hours a year looking for parking, according to the latest data. This boils down to an average cost of around $345 each in wasted time, gas, and emissions.

That adds up to an annual cost of $72.7 billion nationally.

In big cities like New York, these figures shoot up.  Drivers in the Big Apple are estimated to spend 107 hours and a whopping $2,243 each year just trying to find a parking spot.

However, there’s a solution that can save both your sanity and your wallet—getting a monthly parking plan.

Long-term monthly parking can be the answer you’re looking for your commute problems. It will not only bring big cost savings, but will free you from the hassle of dealing with daily rates which can add up to thousands in a year!

By locking in a monthly parking spot, you get the peace of mind of having a reserved spot every day, making your daily parking experience less stressful.

And with the rise of online parking marketplaces like Spacer,  finding monthly parking near you has never been easier.  When you use Spacer for monthly parking, you can compare rates and amenities easily online.

However, choosing the best monthly parking spot for you is easier said than done. There is a lot to consider when choosing a monthly parking plan, from amenities to location to cost.

And with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right spot for your needs.

So, how do you choose the best monthly parking spot for you? Follow this step by step guide to find the perfect spot for your long-term parking needs.

How to Choose the Right Monthly Parking Spot for You

Step 1: Consider your location

The location of your monthly parking spot is important. You don’t want to pay for a monthly parking space only to find out it will add unnecessary minutes to your commute.

Here are some questions you can ask yourself to help you narrow down your monthly parking options.

• Do you need to park in a specific neighborhood or street?
• How far are you willing to walk to and from your daily destination?
• Is it accessible to public transportation (if needed)?

At the end of the day, it’s not just about finding a spot nearby. It’s about choosing a location that fits seamlessly into your daily life. By asking these questions, you will have a better idea of how your daily commute will look.

Step 2: Determine your budget

After you’ve determined where you need a long-term parking spot, it’s time to factor in how much you’re willing to pay for a monthly parking space.

Anybody that’s ever lived or worked in a bustling metropolis knows that monthly rates for parking can vary greatly  depending on the size, type, and location of the space you are renting.

When looking for a monthly parking location, it’s important to research different spots in advance and compare prices so that you can find a spot that fits within your budget.

And while it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest monthly parking rates, it’s crucial to strike a balance. Choosing the lowest prices might save you money upfront, but consider whether it’s a convenient parking spot for your daily needs.

Cheaper rates could mean longer walks or less accessibility. Instead of entirely focusing on the lowest rate, aim for affordable spaces that also offer convenience to ensure a smoother daily commute.

How much is monthly parking for each city?

As we’ve mentioned, the cost of parking varies based on location, indoor parking or street parking, and short vs long-term parking. The city you’re in will also greatly affect your monthly parking costs.

Here’s a peak of average monthly parking rates in major cities:

In Chicago, rates can range from $120 in Wicker Park, to more than $500 per month in downtown areas.

Meanwhile, San Francisco has the most expensive monthly parking rates with the average price being around $350, though Mid-Market and Financial District offer more affordable parking rates.

Looking for a convenient monthly parking space in the Big Apple?  NYC monthly parking spots average around $450 per month, with prices ranging from $275 in Hell’s Kitchen to $475 in West Village. In Staten Island, expect to pay an average of $300 for a monthly parking spot.

And while monthly parking in Los Angeles averages around $200 per month, the prices can go up by as much as $400 in the Financial District.

The cost of monthly parking in Washington, DC  is the 7th highest  in the US. The area also has expensive parking fines, which can be as much as $100 per violation.

Boston’s monthly parking averages at $300 per month, with South Boston offering the cheapest option at $125, and downtown Boston or Downtown Crossing costing over $400 per month.

Other parking costs to consider

Aside from monthly parking rates, there’s other costs that drivers need to be aware of, including:

• One time registration fee – Some monthly parking facilities charge a one-time fee for the access pass (e.g. key fob, keycard deposit for lost or damaged keycards, or hang tag) as well as the activation fee, which is paid to acknowledge the monthly reservation.

• Valet parking fees – Valet parking is a convenient option for drivers who do not want to spend time searching for a parking spot. However, this convenience comes at a cost. In addition to the monthly parking fee, drivers must also pay a valet fee every time they use the service. This fee can range from a few dollars to a percentage of the total parking cost. It is important for drivers to factor in this additional cost when considering valet parking as an option.

• Vehicle Types – In some monthly parking garages or parking lots, the cost of parking may vary if you own an SUV, oversized vehicle or an exotic vehicle.

Remember that some commercial parking garages and facilities offer monthly parking deals, especially those who are booking for the first time. So take advantage of these!

Step 3: Check the amenities

Now that you’ve nailed down your budget and found the perfect location, it’s time to think about the little things that can make your parking spot feel just right.

Different parking facilities offer different amenities. Some may have covered parking, valet services, or even car wash services. Think about what amenities are important to you and prioritize them in your search.

For example, if your schedule is unpredictable or involves late hours, having 24/7 access to your parking spot is invaluable.

Choosing the right amenities not only gets you what you need but also helps you avoid paying extra for things you don’t.

Opt for self-parking instead of valet parking if you have a few extra minutes to park on your own. Consider outdoor parking, which might have lower rates compared to covered lots, depending on the weather.

What amenities should you look for in a long-term parking spot?

Keep in mind that the more amenities offered, the higher the price may be. Here’s some amenities to take into consideration when choosing a monthly parking space:

1. Security – Security measures vary greatly across different types of parking spots. Some have employees onsite to keep an eye on things, while others have no human workers at all and rely solely on surveillance cameras. If you like a parking spot but are unsure about its safety, do some research to make sure it’s a secure place.

2. Underground or aboveground parking – While above ground parking are generally well-lit and are highly visible locations, underground parking provides easy access to buildings overhead.

3. Access – Your parking spot should be accessible during the hours that you need it to be accessible. You’re someone who works extended or unpredictable hours, make sure you’ll have access to your vehicle during the times you need it and consider a spot with 24/7 access and offers round-the-clock entry and exit.

4. EV charging – If you own an electric vehicle, having access to charging stations is a game-changer. Check if the parking facility supports green initiatives by providing charging infrastructure for electric cars.
5. Shuttle or transportation services – This particularly applies for long-term airport parking. Make sure to inquire about shuttle or transportation services for any awesome airport parking deals that include shuttle services.

Step 4: Book your monthly parking spot

Now that you’ve sorted out your budget, found the right location, and checked off essential amenities, it’s time to book your perfect monthly parking spot.

Before locking in a monthly parking space, make sure to read through the terms and conditions carefully and ask for clarification on anything you are unsure about. It’s also a good idea to keep a copy of the contract for your records.

Reminders for booking your monthly parking spot

Starting date

Some facilities offer flexibility, allowing you to start parking at any time during the month. Others may limit you to starting on the 1st or 15th. Make sure to check each location’s details for immediate parking availability.

Billing

Check if the monthly subscription is recurring or not recurring. For recurring monthly subscriptions, your spot will auto-renew, and charges will continue until you decide to cancel. You have the flexibility to cancel at any time, and your spot stays valid through the billing cycle’s end.

On the other hand, non-recurring monthly subscriptions often involve paying for the initial month upfront, with subsequent payments going directly to the parking facility or operator.

Cancellation policies

Check the cancellation rules before securing your monthly parking. Some spots offer easy cancellations, but be aware of notice periods and possible fees.

Step 5: Park in your new parking spot!

Congratulations! You have now found a parking spot that’s near you and suits your needs!

Now, it’s time to enjoy the convenience of your new monthly parking spot. Simply park, relax, and make the most of the stress-free parking solution you’ve chosen. Happy parking!

Looking for monthly parking in Chicago, New York or San Francisco?

Whether you’re googling ‘monthly parking near me,  garage for rent near me or overnight parking near me, Spacer is the best place to find the perfect monthly parking spot for you.

Spacer is the easiest way to save money on monthly parking. Rent monthly parking that you can afford and at the location you need today!

If you’re having trouble finding a monthly parking space, give our friendly Spacer team a call at 1-800-339-2635 or consider downloading our parking app for an easier solution.