Free parking has long been seen as the default – a public good that should always be available and convenient. But free parking isn’t really free as municipalities pay the price in hidden costs with congestion, lost revenue, and limited access to valuable curb space. Spaces often remain occupied all day by the same vehicles all day, leaving visitors circling in frustration and local businesses missing out on potential customers.

Even today, many cities and towns still offer free parking programs. Yet as communities continue to grow and curb demands evolve, the advantages of paid parking are becoming increasingly clear. The truth is simple: when cities put a fair price on curb space, they unlock turnover, generate sustainable revenue, and lay the foundation for the future of mobility.

From Frustration to Access

Paid parking reshapes the dynamic of the curb. Instead of vehicles occupying the  same spots all day, pricing encourages turnover that keeps spaces available for more people. Visitors are more likely to find a convenient spot near shops and restaurants, while residents and short-term parkers gain easier access. 

Turnover is more than a metric – it drives real outcomes. Businesses benefit from increased foot traffic, customers enjoy a  smoother experience, and streets become livelier. With demand managed through pricing, cities move from endless circling and gridlock to a healthier flow of people and activity.

A Revenue Stream to Rely On

Beyond improving access, paid parking also provides something municipalities can count on: steady revenue. Unlike fines or taxes, parking fees deliver a dependable stream that can be reinvested into community priorities. These programs often pay for themselves quickly, giving municipalities greater flexibility to fund mobility improvements, public services, and long-term growth strategies. cover their own costs quickly and give local governments more flexibility to fund mobility improvements and future growth strategies.

Preparing For What’s Next

The value of paid parking extends beyond today’s challenges. Once in place, programs generate the data cities need to manage demand more effectively, set rates strategically, and plan smarter policies. That same foundation also creates the flexibility needed for the future – from supporting EV charging and delivery zones to adapting to new forms of mobility.

Free parking may feel comfortable, but it locks cities into old problems. Paid parking works because it eases congestion, improves access, generates reliable revenue, and creates a stronger foundation for the future of mobility. Cities that make the shift aren’t just managing parking – they’re opening the door to stronger, more connected communities.