Parking

Parking Overview

Portland International Airport (PDX) has four main on-site parking choices: Short-Term Garage, Long-Term Garage, Economy Parking Lot, and Valet (Gold Key). In general, Short-Term is the priciest standard option (about $27–$30/day), Long-Term is mid-range (about $21–$24/day), Economy is the best value (about $10–$15/day, with the 7th day free), and Valet is premium convenience (about $30–$45/day). Nearby off-site lots can be cheaper, often starting around $4.50–$10/day.

Choosing the Right Parking

• Short trips (1–3 hours): Use the Short-Term Garage for pickups, drop-offs, and quick terminal visits—it’s closest and minimizes walking time.
• Day trips: The Long-Term Garage is often the sweet spot for a full day: covered parking and easy terminal access without Short-Term pricing.
• Extended trips (1+ weeks): Choose the Economy Parking Lot for the lowest on-site cost, especially with the 7th day free. For the absolute lowest rates, compare off-site operators with shuttle service.
• Premium needs: Valet (Gold Key) is best when time matters most; the Long-Term Garage is a strong “premium-lite” covered alternative.

Traveler-Specific Tips

• Families: The garages connect quickly to the terminal area, helping with strollers and luggage. For fewer transfers (no shuttle), pick Short-Term or Long-Term.
• Business travelers: Consider reserving ahead (when available) for a predictable arrival. Valet (Gold Key) is the fastest curb-to-check-in option.
• Budget travelers: Economy is the best on-site deal; off-site lots can be even cheaper but add shuttle time. If your schedule allows, compare with public transit to PDX for the lowest total cost.
• EV owners: PDX has about 24 EV charging stations in the Short-Term Garage (commonly on levels 3–4), so plan for that garage if you need to charge while parked.

Practical Parking Info

Booking in advance through the airport or third-party sites can lock in a spot and may reduce pricing; it’s especially useful during holidays and summer peaks. Payment is typically accepted via card and mobile pay at exit lanes and kiosks (cash acceptance can vary). Expect standard airport-lot safety measures such as good lighting, surveillance, and routine patrols. The Short-Term and Long-Term Garages are covered; the Economy Lot is generally uncovered. Accessible parking is available, with discounted programs for eligible travelers (including some disabled veteran benefits).

Getting to Your Terminal

• Short-Term Garage: closest—typically a 0–2 minute walk via terminal connections.
• Long-Term Garage: a short walk, commonly via a tunnel connection.
• Economy Parking Lot: free 24/7 shuttles about every 7–15 minutes; allow extra time at busy hours.
• Valet (Gold Key): drop off and pick up at the terminal entrance for the least walking.

Alternatives & Timing Tips

If on-site lots are full or you’re price-shopping, look at off-site parking 1–3 miles from PDX with free shuttles running about every 5–15 minutes. Ride-share users can skip parking entirely by using designated terminal drop-off areas. For peak travel periods (early mornings, major holidays, spring break, and summer weekends), reserving ahead—especially for Economy or off-site—can save time and money.