Parking Costs in San Francisco
Street parking in San Francisco costs between $0.50 and $8 per hour. The exact price depends on which neighborhood you park in and how busy that area is. Most street parking is enforced from 9 am to 6 pm Monday through Saturday, with some Sunday enforcement in popular areas like Fisherman's Wharf and around Chase Center.
Street Parking Rates
The city uses demand-responsive pricing, which means rates change based on how full parking blocks are. If a block is over 80% full, the rate goes up $0.25. If it's under 60% full, the rate drops $0.25. These adjustments happen about every three months.
Historically, street rates ranged from $1 to $7 per hour, but the system now allows rates to reach $8 per hour in high-demand areas.
Off-Street Parking
Garage and lot parking costs more than street spots:
| Parking Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Weekend parking | $19 to $40 per day |
| Overnight parking | $30 to $50 per day |
| Event parking | $19 to $40 per day |
| Commuter parking | $20 to $35 per day |
Important Parking Rules
Most street parking meters have a two-hour time limit. You cannot feed the meter to extend your time beyond the legal limit, or you'll get a ticket. Special event rates apply near AT&T Park during baseball games, typically at least $7 per hour.
If you park in an off-street garage, the city charges a 25% tax on top of the parking fee. This means a $20 parking spot actually costs $25.
How to Find the Best Rates
Rates vary by block and time of day, so the same street can have different prices at different times. Check parking meter signs before you park to see the current rate. Several parking apps and maps show real-time rates for different neighborhoods, helping you find cheaper spots before you arrive.