
The cost to leave your car at LAX varies widely, from around $30 per day for the most affordable off-site parking to over $70 per day for terminal garage parking. The final price depends heavily on your choice of parking option: terminal garages, LAX's official Economy parking, or third-party off-site lots. For a standard week-long trip, you could pay anywhere from $210 to over $500.
The most convenient option is parking in one of the Central Terminal Area (CTA) garages located directly across from the terminal buildings. While you can't reserve a spot, the daily rate is a flat fee. This is ideal for short trips or if you prioritize walking directly to your terminal.
A more budget-friendly official option is the LAX Economy Lot. Located off-airport, it charges a lower daily rate. You'll take a frequent, complimentary shuttle bus to the terminals, which adds about 10-20 minutes to your travel time. This is the best value for longer trips if you don't mind the shuttle ride.
The most competitive prices are typically found at private off-site parking lots surrounding the airport. These facilities offer a range of services from basic self-park to covered or valet parking. Prices are often lowest when you book online in advance. Always factor in taxes and fees, which can add 10-20% to the advertised rate. The table below compares the key options.
| Parking Option | Daily Rate (Approx.) | Weekly Rate (Approx.) | Transit to Terminal | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal Garage (CTA) | $60 - $75 | $420 - $525 | (0-5 mins) | Short trips, maximum convenience |
| LAX Economy Lot | $40 - $50 | $280 - $350 | Shuttle Bus (10-20 mins) | Long trips, best official value |
| Off-Site Lot (Booked Online) | $12 - $25 | $84 - $175 | Shuttle Bus (5-15 mins) | Lowest cost, travelers willing to book ahead |
| Valet Parking (Off-Site) | $30 - $45 | $210 - $315 | Shuttle/Valet (5 mins) | Travelers seeking a premium, quick experience |

It’s all about booking off-site. I never pay terminal prices. I use an app to compare the dozens of private lots near LAX. Last month, I snagged a covered spot for $14 a day, including all fees. The shuttle was quick, and I prepaid so I just scanned my on the way out. For a week-long trip, that’s the difference between a $100 bill and a $400 one. Always book online ahead of time.

Be prepared for a serious expense. Parking at the terminal garages is incredibly convenient but will cost you over $60 for every 24-hour period. If you’re traveling for more than a couple of days, that adds up fast. Your wallet will thank you for using the LAX Economy Lot or an off-site service. Just remember to factor in extra time for their shuttle buses, especially during peak travel hours.

Convenience has a premium price tag at LAX. If you absolutely must park as close as possible, head to the Central Terminal Area garages. The daily rate is steep, but you can to your check-in counter. For any trip longer than a weekend, I strongly recommend the Economy Lot. The shuttle is reliable, and you’ll save a significant amount of money without sacrificing much time.


