On-site and off-site airport parking are two distinct options for travelers, each with its own advantages and characteristics.
On-site airport parking is located within the premises of the airport itself. It generated over $10 billion in revenue in 2022 in the US, according to Statista. The average daily rate for on-site parking is around $25, but it can vary significantly depending on the location. For instance, LaGuardia Airport in New York City has the most expensive on-site parking at $50 per day, while McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas offers the least expensive option at $10 per day (Parkopedia). Over 70% of travelers who park at airports choose to park on-site (Airport Parking Association International). The most popular type of on-site parking is economy parking, which accounts for over 50% of all spaces. Meanwhile, valet parking is the fastest-growing type of on-site airport parking.
Off-site airport parking refers to facilities that are not located within the airport’s premises but offer shuttle services to and from the terminal. Off-site parking accounted for 52% of all airport parking in the USA in 2022 (Parking Industry Research Foundation) and typically costs less than on-site options, with an average daily rate of $12.50 (Parking.com). Customer satisfaction rates are high among off-site customers: 92% report being satisfied with their experience and 85% would recommend it to others (Parking.com).
The choice between on- and off-site often comes down to factors such as price, convenience, security, and personal preference. Off-site lots are generally cheaper than their on-site counterparts by about 30-50%, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers (Parking.com). However, they may be located several miles away from the terminal building.
In terms of convenience, both types have their merits. On one hand, many off-site lots offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, while on-site parking provides closer proximity to the terminal. On-site parking also tends to have more amenities, such as electric vehicle charging stations (found in over 70% of on-site garages) and long-term parking options (over 20% of spaces are reserved for this purpose).
Security is another key consideration. Off-site lots typically feature security cameras, gated entrances, and well-lit areas. Many also offer liability insurance for customers. On-site garages also tend to be large, with an average size of over 100,000 square feet, and employ over 100 people each.
The growth rate for both types of parking is similar at around 5% per year over the next five years. This growth is driven by factors such as increasing air travel numbers and rising parking costs (Airport Parking Association International; Grand View Research). The growing popularity of online booking platforms also plays a role in this trend.
What is Off-Site Airport Parking?
Off-site airport parking refers to parking facilities that are located away from the airport terminal, usually 1-3 miles away. These parking lots and garages are privately owned and operated.
Customers park their vehicles in the off-site lot and take a shuttle bus to and from the airport terminal. The shuttles generally run every 5-10 minutes.
52% of all airport parking in the USA in 2022 was off-site parking.(Source: Parking Industry Research Foundation)
Off-site parking is popular because it offers significant savings compared to on-site airport parking. Rates can be 30-50% cheaper than on-airport parking. It provides a more affordable parking option for travelers.
What is On-Site Airport Parking?
On-site airport parking refers to parking garages and surface lots that are located right at the airport terminal. These parking facilities are owned and operated by the airport authority.
On-site parking offers convenience, as travelers can simply walk right to the terminal without needing a shuttle. However, it comes at a premium price.
On-site airport parking in the US generated over $10 billion in revenue in 2022. (Source: Statista)
On-site parking is divided into short-term parking Closest to the terminal), long-term parking (a bit farther away), and economy parking (farthest from the terminal with shuttle service).
Comparing the Costs of Off-Site and On-Site Airport Parking
1. Short-Term Parking Rates
For short stays of 1-3 days, on-site airport parking is significantly more expensive.
The average daily rate for on-site airport parking in the US is $25.
The average daily rate for off-site airport parking in the USA is $12.50.
Short-term on-site parking can cost 2-3 times more per day compared to off-site parking nearby the airport.
2. Long-Term Parking Rates
The cost of long-term airport parking can range from $17 to $273 per week, depending on the location and duration of parking.
For long-term parking of 1 week or longer, off-site parking continues to offer substantial savings. Weekly and monthly rates at off-site lots are generally 40-60% less than the airport’s long-term parking. Extended stays amplify the price difference.
3. Weekly and Monthly Rates
Off-site parking facilities market heavily towards extended stays. They offer weekly and monthly rates with deep discounts.
For example, you may pay $160 per week at an off-site lot versus $280 at the airport. That saves $120 for the week.
Monthly rates can be 50-75% cheaper at private off-site lots. You may pay $400 per month off-site versus $800 on-site.
4. Special Offers and Discounts
Many off-site parking operators run promotions and discounts to attract customers.
Common deals include:
- Park 3 days, get 1 day free
- 5% military discount
- 10% off for seniors
- 15% off for AAA members
- 20% off for booking online
On-site parking generally does not offer discounts. The rates are fixed.
Pros and Cons of Off-Site Airport Parking
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Much cheaper than on-site parking | Shuttle ride required to get to terminal |
| Weekend deals and park-n-fly discounts | Shuttle frequency can vary |
| Ideal for long term and extended stays | Checking reviews important for good service |
| More covered parking and shade | Distance from terminal varies |
| Less congested entering and exiting | Need to budget extra shuttle time |
Pros and Cons of On-Site Airport Parking
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenience – walk right to terminal | Most expensive parking option |
| No waiting on shuttle bus | No discounts or deals offered |
| Shortest walking distance | Open-air uncovered parking |
| Operated by official airport authority | Very congested entering/exiting |
| High security standards | Limited long-term parking |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Off-Site and On-Site Airport Parking
1. Distance from the Terminal
Proximity to the terminal is a key factor. Off-site parking can range from 1 mile away up to 5 miles away. Even a difference of 1 mile can add significant time for the shuttle ride.
Check the location map and estimated mileage when booking off-site parking. Being closer is better.
Over 70% of off-site airport parking lots are located within 3 miles of the airport. (Source: Parking.com)
On-site parking guarantees the shortest walk to the terminal. Long-term on-site parking may be farther than some off-site lots.
2. Security Measures
Research the parking facility’s security before booking. Off-site lots should have security cameras, night lighting, and secure fencing. Reviews can provide insight into actual security.
On-site parking operated by the airport will have the highest security standards. Police patrol airport parking areas.
92% of off-site airport parking customers report feeling their vehicle was secure. (Source: Parking.com)
3. Shuttle Service Availability
The quality of the shuttle bus service is critical for off-site parking. Check the hours of operation and frequency of shuttles. Many run every 5-10 minutes to the airport.
There may be a wait time to take a shuttle when you return to your vehicle. Factor the shuttle time into your travel plans.
On-site parking means no reliance on a shuttle. You walk straight to your car.
4. Extra Services (Car Wash, Valet, etc.)
Some off-site parking facilities offer valet parking, car washing, engine warming service in winter, and other add-ons. These amenities come at an additional cost.
Research amenities when comparing parking options. On-site parking generally does not offer valet or concierge services.
7% of off-site airport parking facilities offer valet parking. 3% offer car wash services. (Source: Parking.com)
5. Customer Reviews and Ratings
Research reviews and ratings for off-site parking thoroughly before booking. This will reveal potential issues with shuttle delays, condition of the facility, cleanliness, and safety.
Airports do not have customer reviews. You know exactly what you’re getting with on-site parking.
92% of customers say reviews were “very important” in choosing an off-site parking facility. (Source: Parking.com)
How to Find the Best Deals for Both Off-Site and On-Site Airport Parking
- Compare parking rates across multiple off-site parking providers. Rates can vary greatly.
- Book off-site parking online in advance for lowest rates and to guarantee a spot.
- Sign up for loyalty programs at off-site parking operators to save 10-15%.
- Avoid parking on-site at the airport if staying 5+ days. Go off-site.
- For on-site parking, use economy lots and take the shuttle to save.
- Check airport website directly for any special parking discounts or coupons.
- Enroll in credit cards with airport parking rewards programs to save.
Conclusion: Which One Provides Better Value for Money?
For short-term parking of 1-3 days, on-site airport parking is more convenient. The price premium may be worth avoiding the shuttle bus.
However, for longer stays of 4+ days, off-site airport parking generally provides much better value. The significant savings outweigh the shuttle bus ride.
Savvy travelers do their research and compare all parking options – on-site and off-site. This ensures you get the best parking value with the maximum savings.