Reserve parking in advance and save 30-60% compared to walk-up rates.
Why Use a Parking App?
Walk-up parking rates are almost always the most expensive option. Parking apps let you:
- Compare prices across multiple garages and lots
- Reserve in advance and lock in lower rates
- Save 30-60% compared to day-of pricing
- Skip the line with mobile entry at many locations
The catch? Different apps have different inventory, so the cheapest option varies by location.
The Big Three: Quick Comparison
| Feature | SpotHero | ParkWhiz | BestParking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 8,000+ locations | 3,000+ locations | 2,000+ locations |
| Cities | 300+ cities | Major metros | Major metros |
| Best For | Urban + airports | Events + airports | Airport focus |
| Typical Savings | 30-50% | 30-50% | 25-40% |
| Monthly Pass | Yes | Yes | No |
| Free Cancellation | Yes (most) | Yes (most) | Varies |
SpotHero: The Largest Network
Coverage: 8,000+ locations across 300+ cities
How it works:
- Enter destination, date, and time
- See available spots with prices and reviews
- Reserve and pay in the app
- Show confirmation at the garage
Strengths:
- Widest coverage, especially in mid-size cities
- Strong airport inventory
- Monthly parking pass options
- Garage ratings and reviews
Weaknesses:
- Not always the cheapest in every market
- Some high-demand locations sell out quickly
Best for: Urban parking, airports, regular commuters who want monthly passes
ParkWhiz: Event Parking Specialist
Coverage: 3,000+ locations in major metro areas
How it works: Similar to SpotHero. Search, compare, reserve, and show confirmation.
Strengths:
- Strong partnerships with stadiums and venues
- Often has exclusive event parking inventory
- Good airport coverage
- Easy event search by venue name
Weaknesses:
- Smaller network than SpotHero
- Less coverage in smaller cities
Best for: Concert, game, and event parking
BestParking: Airport Focus
Coverage: 2,000+ locations, primarily airports
How it works: Search by airport code, compare rates, and reserve.
Strengths:
- Deep airport parking inventory
- Includes off-site shuttle lots
- Long-term parking deals
- Price alerts for specific airports
Weaknesses:
- Limited non-airport inventory
- Smaller overall network
Best for: Travelers looking for the cheapest airport parking
Head-to-Head: Real Price Comparisons
We compared prices for common parking scenarios:
Downtown Chicago (Full Day)
| App | Cheapest Option | Distance to Loop |
|---|---|---|
| SpotHero | $15 | 0.3 miles |
| ParkWhiz | $18 | 0.2 miles |
| BestParking | $22 | 0.4 miles |
| Walk-up | $35-$45 | Varies |
Winner: SpotHero
LAX Airport (7-Day Trip)
| App | Off-Airport Rate | On-Airport Rate |
|---|---|---|
| SpotHero | $49/week | $84/week |
| ParkWhiz | $52/week | $91/week |
| BestParking | $45/week | N/A |
| Official | N/A | $126/week |
Winner: BestParking
NFL Game (3 Hours)
| App | Distance to Stadium | Price |
|---|---|---|
| SpotHero | 0.5 miles | $25 |
| ParkWhiz | 0.3 miles | $22 |
| Official Lot | On-site | $45 |
Winner: ParkWhiz
The Smart Strategy: Compare All Three
No single app wins every time. The best approach:
- Check all three apps for your destination
- Compare total cost including any booking fees
- Read reviews to avoid sketchy lots
- Book 1-3 days ahead for best selection
For events, book immediately when you get tickets. Prices only go up.
Other Apps Worth Knowing
ParkMobile / PayByPhone
What it does: Pay for street meter parking via app
Why it's useful:
- Extend meter time remotely (no more running back)
- Get notifications before time expires
- Digital receipts for expense reports
Coverage: Most major cities have adopted these apps
SpotAngels
What it does: Crowdsourced street parking data
Why it's useful:
- Shows where you can park and for how long
- Alerts for street cleaning schedules
- Helps find free street spots
Tips for Maximum Savings
1. Book Ahead
Prices increase as you get closer to your parking date. For events, prices can double or triple day-of.
2. Compare Apps
Spend 2 minutes checking SpotHero and ParkWhiz. The price difference can be $10-$20.
3. Consider Walking Distance
Lots 5-10 minutes away are often 30-50% cheaper than the closest options.
4. Check for Promo Codes
All three apps regularly offer first-time user discounts and seasonal promos.
5. Look at Monthly Passes
If you park in the same area frequently, monthly passes often save 20-40% vs. daily rates.
The Bottom Line
- SpotHero: Best overall coverage and value
- ParkWhiz: Best for events and stadiums
- BestParking: Best for airport parking
For the best deal, compare prices across apps before booking. It takes 2 minutes and can save you $10-$30 per parking session.
Updated: January 2025
