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Parking Guide

Parking Apps & Location Codes

Find which parking app works at your location and get the zone code to start paying.

Parking Apps Directory

Major parking apps operating across the United States.

PayByPhone

7,600+ zones across the US

One of the most widely used parking apps in the US. Enter your location code to start a session, extend remotely, and get expiration alerts.

Available in: Miami Beach, Miami, Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle +2 more

ParkMobile

Nationwide coverage, garages and meters

The largest parking app in the US. Works at on-street meters, garages, airports, and events. Reserve spots in advance.

Available in: Miami Beach, Miami, New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago +14 more

ParkNYC

Official NYC parking app

The only approved app for paying at NYC parking meters. Covers all five boroughs with real-time rate info.

Available in: New York City

ParkChicago

36,000+ metered spaces in Chicago

Official Chicago parking app. Pay by license plate with no need to display a receipt. Supports all metered zones city-wide.

Available in: Chicago

meterUP

Official Philadelphia parking app

Powered by ParkMobile, meterUP covers all PPA-managed meters in Philadelphia. Supports 4 languages and blocks payment when parking is free.

Available in: Philadelphia

SpotHero

Reserve parking in advance

Book and prepay for garage and lot parking. Compare prices, see photos, and guarantee your spot before you arrive.

City Parking Guides

Parking apps, meter rates, and free parking info for major US cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

+How do I pay for parking with my phone?
Download the parking app that works at your location (check signage on the meter or kiosk). Create an account, enter the zone or location code displayed on the sign, select your duration, and confirm payment. Most apps send a notification before your time expires so you can extend remotely.
+What's a parking location code?
A parking location code (also called a zone number) is a unique number assigned to a specific parking area. You'll find it posted on the meter, kiosk, or nearby signage. Enter this code in your parking app to pay for that specific spot or zone.
+Which parking app should I use?
Use the app displayed on the meter or parking sign at your location. Most cities have one official app for on-street meters. Using the wrong app means your payment won't be recognized by enforcement officers. When in doubt, check the sticker on the meter.
+Are parking apps free to use?
The apps themselves are free to download. Some charge a small convenience fee per transaction (typically $0.25–$0.45). A few cities like San Francisco and Seattle waive all transaction fees. You only pay for the actual parking time plus any applicable service fee.

© 2026 TowFinder USA. Not affiliated with any parking app provider.

Data updated March 2026.