The cost to park at Dulles International varies by lot, duration, and service level. Typical price drivers include daily rates, maximum daily caps, and whether shuttle service or valet is included. This guide provides practical USD ranges to help travelers budget accurately.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Parking Rate (Standard Lot) | $8 | $12 | $20 | Typically for 24 hours; space availability varies. |
| Express/Preference Lot (Closer to Terminal) | $15 | $22 | $28 | Convenience premium; may include shuttle or walkway access. |
| Valet Parking | $28 | $34 | $40 | Includes drop-off and retrieval service; drops for short stays possible. |
| Long-Term Parking (7+ days) | $56 | $84 | $140 | Typically reduced daily rate; check maximum caps. |
| Taxes & Fees | $0.40 | $2.00 | $5.00 | Varies by lot and duration; may apply to total or daily. |
Overview Of Costs
Understanding the price range for IAD parking helps travelers budget reliably, with typical total costs built from daily rates, service level, and duration. The total trip cost commonly combines the daily rate, any entry/exit surcharges, and applicable taxes. For longer trips, regional pricing trends and lot proximity can shift totals by 20–40% relative to the standard lot.
Cost Breakdown
Arranging a parking plan requires evaluating options across lots, services, and duration. The table below shows representative cost components and how they contribute to the overall price. The figures assume a 24-hour period and standard market conditions at IAD.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Parking Rate | $8 | $12 | $20 | Standard lots; varies by proximity |
| Proximity Premium | $0 | $5 | $10 | Closer lots may add daily fee |
| Valet/Express Services | $0 | $34 | $40 | Premium convenience; often for short-term trips |
| Taxes & Fees | $0 | $2 | $5 | Applied to daily or total amount |
| Delivery/Return Fees | $0 | $0 | $0 | Typically included; verify with operator |
| Disc. or Loyalty Rates | $0 | $1–$5 | $10 | Seasonal promotions or member plans |
What Drives Price
Key price factors include lot proximity to terminals, whether a shuttle is needed, and the duration of the stay. Longer stays may qualify for reduced daily rates but can incur higher taxes or facility fees. Peak travel periods, holidays, and weather conditions can also push prices upward, especially for premium lots and valet services.
Regional Price Differences
Prices at Dulles can vary by market area within the U.S. Relative comparisons show suburban, airport-adjacent, and downtown markets tend to produce different daily caps. At IAD, the main drivers are proximity and service level, with suburban lots often offering the lowest daily rates and premium lots closest to terminals charging the most. In practice, expect a ±15–25% spread between the lowest and highest typical options within the same airport vicinity.
Regional Price Differences — Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario snapshots illustrate typical price ranges across common parking choices.
- Basic: Standard lot, 1 day, no shuttle; 24 hours, $8–$12 plus taxes.
- Mid-Range: Express lot with shuttle, 2 days; $22–$40 total, plus taxes and potential daily cap.
- Premium: Valet for 1 day; $34–$40 plus taxes and possible service fees.
Seasonality & Price Trends
Seasonal effects matter for planning: peak travel weeks tend to raise rates across all lots, while off-peak periods can yield closer to the low end of ranges. Booking in advance may lock in lower tariffs and prevent last-minute surges.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden or ancillary costs can appear, such as height restrictions for certain garages, early-exit fees, or penalties for lost tickets. Always confirm the final total with the operator before exiting. Some lots add per-entry fees when re-entering the facility on multi-day trips.
Costs Compared To Alternatives
Alternatives to on-site parking include off-airport lots with shuttle service or ride-sharing options from nearby garages. On-site parking typically offers the lowest total time cost, while off-site options may reduce per-day rates but add shuttle time and potential wait periods.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes for common trips.
- Basic: 1 day in Standard Lot; 24 hours; $8–$12; Taxes $0–$2; Total $10–$14.
- Mid-Range: 2 days, Express Lot with shuttle; $28–$44 subtotal; Taxes $2–$5; Total $30–$49.
- Premium: 1 day in Valet; $34–$40; Taxes $2–$5; Total $36–$45.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Budget tips include checking for loyalty programs, using off-peak times, and comparing garage proximity. For short trips, valet can save time, but the cost premium should be weighed against convenience. For longer trips, consider long-term lots with capped daily rates to manage the total cost.