Atlanta Airport Economy Parking: How to Find the Best Cheap Parking at Hartsfield-Jackson
Trying to figure out economy parking at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) can feel confusing, especially with different lots, off-site options, and changing prices. This guide focuses on how economy parking works in Atlanta, where to park, typical costs, and local tips to make your trip smoother.
The Basics: Economy Parking at ATL
When people say “Atlanta airport economy parking”, they’re usually talking about:
- Official ATL on-airport economy lots (long-term, lower-priced)
- Off-airport economy parking near Hartsfield-Jackson (private lots and garages with shuttles)
- Other budget-friendly alternatives, like MARTA or park-and-ride options
Hartsfield-Jackson is located at:
Economy parking is aimed at travelers who want to save money and don’t mind a slightly longer walk or a shuttle ride to the terminal.
Official Atlanta Airport Economy Parking Options
ATL regularly adjusts names and layouts of its parking, but there are some core long-term, lower-cost options you’ll see most often.
1. On-Site Economy / Long-Term Lots
These are airport-operated and generally cheaper than the closest daily or hourly lots, but more expensive than many off-site operators.
Common types you’ll encounter:
- Economy / Long-Term Lots near Domestic Terminal
- Park-Ride Lots (typically the lowest-priced on-site option)
- International Terminal economy parking
Because ATL updates parking names, policies, and pricing, it’s smart to:
- Check signage as you approach the airport
- Follow directions for “Economy”, “Park-Ride”, or “Long-Term” depending on which area you want
- Verify pricing with posted boards at the lot entrance
Comparing ATL Economy Parking Options at a Glance
Approximate relationships only — actual prices and availability can change and should always be confirmed on arrival or via official ATL sources.
| Option Type | Location | Typical Cost Level* | Shuttle / Walk | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| On-site Economy / Long-Term Lots | Airport property | $$ | Mostly walk/short ride | 3–7 day trips, want official ATL parking |
| On-site Park-Ride / Remote Lots | Airport property (remote) | $–$$ | Shuttle | Long trips, budget-minded, flexible on time |
| Off-airport Economy Parking | Hotels / private lots nearby | $ | Shuttle | Long trips, frequent travelers, biggest savings |
| Daily / Hourly Decks (North/South) | Directly at domestic terminal | $$$–$$$$ | Walk | Short trips, pickups/drop-offs, convenience |
*“Cost level” is relative, not a guaranteed rate.
Domestic vs. International: Where Economy Parking Fits
Domestic Terminal (North & South)
If you’re flying Delta, Southwest, or most major U.S. carriers, you’ll likely use the Domestic Terminal. Economy-style options usually include:
- Long-term surface lots near the domestic side
- Park-Ride lots with shuttles to North and South terminals
Shuttle buses typically run on a loop and pick up at clearly marked stops. If you have a lot of luggage or kids, factor in a few extra minutes for loading and unloading.
International Terminal (Concourse F)
For international flights, particularly from Concourse F:
- There is separate parking near the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal
- Economy-style options may be slightly farther from the entrance but are typically marked as “Economy” or “Long-Term”
If you’re unsure whether to park at domestic or international, check:
- Your airline and departure terminal
- Your itinerary, which should list Domestic Terminal (North/South) or International Terminal
Off-Airport Economy Parking Near ATL
Many travelers from Atlanta and surrounding suburbs use off-airport economy parking for the best long-term savings.
Common features of these private lots and garages:
- Cheaper daily rates than on-airport decks, especially for longer trips
- 24/7 shuttle service to and from ATL
- You park, keep your keys (in most self-park lots), then take a shuttle to your terminal
What to look for when choosing off-site economy parking:
- Clear address and phone number
- Shuttle frequency (how often they run, especially early mornings and late nights)
- Whether they serve both domestic and international terminals or just one side
- Policies for late returns, flight delays, or lost tickets
When driving from in-town neighborhoods like Midtown, Buckhead, or Decatur, you’ll see many of these facilities clustered near:
- Camp Creek Parkway
- Sullivan Road
- Virginia Avenue and Airport Boulevard
Most of these businesses post big roadside signs saying “Airport Parking”, “Economy Parking,” or “Park & Fly.”
How to Choose the Right Economy Parking for Your Trip
1. Trip Length
- 1–2 days: On-airport daily parking decks can be worth the extra cost for the shorter walk.
- 3–7 days: On-site economy or long-term lots are a good balance between price and convenience.
- 7+ days: Off-airport economy lots often offer the biggest savings.
2. Time of Day and Traffic
- Morning departures (6–9 a.m.) from Atlanta neighborhoods like East Atlanta, Sandy Springs, or Marietta mean heavy traffic on I-75/I-85.
- Plan extra time if using park-ride lots or off-site shuttles.
- Late-night arrivals: double-check that your chosen lot runs overnight shuttles.
3. Domestic vs. International Terminal
- Flying out of Concourse F (International Terminal)?
- Make sure your parking lot or shuttle serves that terminal directly.
- Otherwise, you may have to connect via airport transport (Plane Train or shuttle between terminals).
4. Mobility & Luggage Needs
If you’re traveling with:
- Small kids
- Lots of baggage
- Mobility limitations
Then closer parking (daily or deck parking attached to the terminal) may be worth the higher cost compared with the farthest economy options.
Practical Tips for Atlanta Airport Economy Parking
Give Yourself Extra Time
For most Atlanta-area travelers:
- Add at least 30–45 minutes beyond your usual airport arrival time if:
- You’re using an off-site economy lot, or
- You’re unfamiliar with Atlanta airport parking.
During holiday weeks, big events, or bad weather, give yourself an extra hour if you’re using remote economy lots.
Take a Photo of Your Parking Spot
ATL’s economy and long-term lots can be large and crowded. To avoid wandering around after a long flight:
- Snap a photo of:
- Section and row signs
- Any nearby landmarks or light poles
- Note whether you parked North side, South side, or International side
Keep Your Ticket in One Place
Most ATL-related lots still rely on:
- Paper entry tickets, and/or
- Your license plate number
Try to:
- Put your ticket immediately into your wallet or phone case
- Save any confirmation email if you prepaid for off-site parking
Using MARTA or Rideshare Instead of Economy Parking
If you live in the city or near MARTA, it may be cheaper (or easier) to skip airport parking altogether.
MARTA to the Airport
The Airport Station is at the Domestic Terminal, directly inside the airport.
Key points:
- MARTA serves areas including Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, Decatur, College Park, and Doraville.
- Many Atlanta residents park at a MARTA station (subject to local station rules) and ride the train to avoid ATL parking altogether.
Main MARTA contact:
If you’re flying from the International Terminal, ATL provides shuttles between the International and Domestic terminals, so you can still use MARTA and then transfer.
Rideshare or Taxi
From many parts of metro Atlanta, using rideshare or a car service can be comparable to a week of economy parking, especially if:
- You’re traveling solo
- You’re coming from in-town neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland, West Midtown, or Inman Park
Where to Get Official, Up-to-Date Parking Info
Because ATL frequently updates parking availability, temporarily closes lots, or adjusts rates, it’s smart to:
- Follow roadway signs as you approach the airport
- Check any electronic message boards for “Lot Full / Lot Open” notices
- Look at the rate boards at lot entrances before pulling a ticket
If you need more specific guidance, you can contact:
For local, in-person guidance, the City of Atlanta Department of Aviation manages ATL and can direct you to current parking details and policies.
Quick Decision Guide for Atlanta Economy Parking
Use this as a simple reference when you’re planning:
I want the lowest cost and I’m gone 7+ days
→ Look at off-airport economy lots with shuttles.I’m gone 3–5 days and want official ATL parking
→ Choose on-site economy or long-term / park-ride lots.I’m gone 1–2 days and hate shuttles
→ Use daily parking decks close to your terminal.I live near MARTA or in-town Atlanta
→ Consider riding MARTA to the Airport Station instead of parking.
By understanding how Atlanta airport economy parking is structured and what works best for different trip types, you can choose the option that fits your budget, schedule, and comfort level—and avoid last-minute parking stress on your way out of Atlanta.