Economy Garage

Level II EV chargers on Level 1 are the quiet perk here.

Economy Garage at MDW sits off the Main Terminal, with a shuttle ride that averages about 10 minutes to the terminal doors. This is the long-term covered option for people who don’t want to pay Main Garage rates but still want a roof over the car instead of parking in the open Economy Lot. It’s airport-operated, so you pay on exit at the official MDW parking rate rather than dealing with third-party shuttles.

The big differentiator: four Level II EV charging stations on Level 1 by the east elevators. If you’re leaving the car for a 3–5 day trip, that slow-but-steady charge is usually enough to get you back to full or close. Chargers are first-come, first-served, and they sit right off the main entry ramp, so you don’t waste extra time circling other levels.

Shuttles from Economy Garage to the Main Terminal typically run every few minutes during peak hours, with the ride itself taking about 10 minutes curb to curb. Figure 20–25 minutes total from locking your car to standing at security in the Main Terminal, assuming no big lines at the shuttle stop. For early flights before 7 a.m., add a small buffer in case a bus fills up and you wait for the next one.

Economy Garage is fully covered, unlike some off-airport lots near Cicero Avenue, which helps in Chicago winters and summer hail. Daily pricing undercuts the Main Garage while still keeping you on airport property with airport police patrols and cameras on each level. Height clearance is posted at the entry; double-check if you’re driving a taller SUV or work van.

Tip: if you need an EV charger, head straight to Level 1 east elevators, and don’t be shy about passing open spots on upper levels first; the four charging spaces go fast on Sunday mornings and Monday evenings.