Garage Parking vs Street Parking in Downtown Austin
For short parking trips, street parking is typically cheaper. Downtown Austin metered street parking costs $2 for the first hour, then increases by increments up to $5 per hour. You can park for up to 10 hours in a single session. Parking is completely free on Sundays, and disabled permit holders park free at any meter.
Garage parking costs more per hour but offers different advantages. Most downtown garages charge between $6 and $27 depending on the location and how long you stay. The Austin Convention Center Garage, for example, charges $0 for the first 30 minutes, then $5 for up to one hour and $10 for one to six hours, with a $48 daily maximum.
Quick Cost Comparison
| Parking Type | Short Visit (1-2 hours) | Full Day | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street Parking | $2-$4 | $20-$35+ | Not available |
| Typical Garage | $6-$12 | $15-$48 | $40-$74 |
| Affordable Program | N/A | N/A | $40-$60 |
When to Choose Each Option
Choose street parking if you: Park for less than 2 hours, visit downtown infrequently, or want to avoid parking fees on Sundays.
Choose garage parking if you: Need guaranteed availability, want 24/7 access, park regularly, or prefer climate control and security.
Money-Saving Tips
If you park downtown regularly, consider Austin's Affordable Parking Program. Monthly passes cost $40 to $60 and provide access during evening and overnight hours at specific garage locations. This works out to just $1.30 to $2 per day if you use the pass every day.
For 2nd Street District visitors, free validated parking for 90 to 120 minutes is available with any purchase from district retailers. Some restaurants and bars also offer 2 hours of free parking through April 30, 2026.
Meters operate Monday through Wednesday from 8am to 6pm, Thursday and Friday until midnight, and Saturday from 11am to midnight. Plan your visit around these hours to potentially save on parking costs.