Parking Overview
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has six main parking choices: Short-Term Parking, Long-Term Parking, Economy Parking, Valet Parking, Garage Parking, and Premium Parking (closest/most convenient spaces). On-site short-term garages are the priciest for quick access, while long-term (often used as “economy”) offers lower daily caps. Expect on-site rates from about $21–$36/day in terminal garages, around $27/day in long-term, and about $45/day for valet. Off-site lots near SFO can be significantly cheaper, often $8–$13/day with a shuttle.
Choosing the Right Parking
- Short trips (1–3 hours): Use the Domestic Parking Garage for Domestic Terminals or International Parking Garages A & G for the International Terminal. Rates commonly start at $2 per 15 minutes, and you can walk straight to check-in.
- Day trips: If you’ll be gone most of the day, compare terminal garages (daily max often $21–$36) versus Long-Term Parking Garages 1 & 2 (about $27 per 24 hours) and ride the free AirTrain.
- Extended trips (1+ weeks): Long-Term (SFO’s practical “economy” option) or off-site parking typically offers the best value; off-site lots can run $8–$13/day with frequent shuttles.
- Premium needs: Choose Valet Parking (about $45/day) or premium/closest garage areas for the shortest walk and covered parking.
Traveler-Specific Tips
- Families: Terminal garages are easiest for strollers and luggage—look for covered routes and elevators in the garages, and plan extra time to load/unload. Carts are typically most available near terminal entrances.
- Business travelers: Prebook on flysfo.com for faster in/out (QR entry/exit) and consider Valet for the quickest curb-to-terminal experience.
- Budget travelers: Use Long-Term or compare off-site lots (often with free cancellation). For very short stays, public transit (BART/AirTrain connections) may be cheaper than paying a full-day parking cap.
- EV owners: Charging availability can vary by facility and partner lot; check flysfo.com (on-site) or your off-site provider listing for confirmed charging spots before booking.
Practical Parking Info
Booking ahead is recommended during holidays and busy weekends: it can lock in lower rates and guarantee a space. Payment is commonly handled by card/mobile pay at exit gates or pay-on-foot kiosks; prepaid QR codes are available for reservations. SFO garages are well-lit and generally monitored with airport security measures. Most on-site options are covered garage parking, while some long-term areas may include surface options for taller vehicles. Accessible parking is available; follow posted signage for designated spaces and elevator access.
Getting to Your Terminal
Closest parking is in the terminal garages: Domestic Parking Garage connects directly to Domestic Terminals, while International Garages A & G serve the International Terminal with short, walkable access. From Long-Term Parking (Garages 1 & 2), the AirTrain runs frequently and is free, providing reliable connections to all terminals.
Alternatives & Tips
For the lowest prices, compare nearby off-site lots (typically 1–5 miles from SFO) with shuttles every ~10–15 minutes. If you’re not parking, use designated rideshare/app-based pickup and drop-off areas and follow terminal signage. During peak travel periods (summer, Thanksgiving week, winter holidays), reserve early—especially for short-term and premium spaces closest to the terminals.