Introduction
Parking on or near college campuses can be a nightmare, especially during major events like football games, graduations, or concerts. Students, faculty, and nearby residents often find themselves competing for limited spaces, while event attendees circle blocks in frustration. But what if you could turn this challenge into an opportunity?
By renting out your parking spot during high-demand campus events, you can earn extra cash with minimal effort. Whether you have a reserved spot in a campus lot, a driveway near the stadium, or even an unused garage space, listing it on the right platforms can connect you with drivers willing to pay for convenience.
This guide explores the best apps and strategies for renting your parking spot locally, ensuring you maximize earnings while providing a valuable service to event-goers.
Why Rent Your Parking Spot During Campus Events?
College towns thrive on events that draw large crowds, creating a surge in parking demand. Here’s why renting your spot makes sense:
- High Demand, Limited Supply: Campus parking is often restricted, and public spaces fill up quickly. Attendees will pay a premium for guaranteed parking.
- Passive Income: Once listed, your spot can generate revenue with little ongoing effort.
- Flexible Earnings: You control when and how often you rent your space.
- Community Benefit: You’re helping reduce traffic congestion and frustration for visitors.
Whether you’re a student looking to offset tuition costs or a local homeowner wanting to monetize unused space, renting your parking spot is a smart side hustle.
Best Apps to List Your Parking Spot Locally
Several apps specialize in connecting parking spot owners with drivers. Here are the top platforms to consider:
1. SpotHero
SpotHero is one of the largest parking rental platforms in the U.S., operating in many college towns. It allows you to list your driveway, garage, or reserved spot for events.
How It Works:
– Create a listing with details like location, availability, and pricing.
– Drivers book and pay through the app.
– You receive payment after the rental period ends.
Best For: Long-term or recurring event parking (e.g., football season).
2. ParkMobile
ParkMobile offers both short-term and event-based parking rentals. It’s widely used near universities and integrates with city parking systems.
How It Works:
– List your spot with dynamic pricing options.
– Renters reserve via the app, and you’re paid electronically.
Best For: One-off events like concerts or graduations.
3. JustPark
Popular in the UK and expanding in the U.S., JustPark connects property owners with drivers needing parking.
How It Works:
– Set your own rates and availability.
– Renters book in advance, and you receive payment via direct deposit.
Best For: Residential spots near campuses.
4. Neighbor
Unlike traditional parking apps, Neighbor allows you to rent out not just parking spots but also unused garages, driveways, or storage spaces.
How It Works:
– List your space with photos and descriptions.
– Renters book monthly or for specific events.
Best For: Long-term rentals or unused garages.
5. CurbFlip
A newer app focused on event parking, CurbFlip lets you rent your spot for concerts, games, and other gatherings.
How It Works:
– List your spot for specific event dates.
– Drivers pay upfront, and you keep most of the earnings.
Best For: High-demand single-day events.
How to Maximize Earnings from Your Parking Spot
Simply listing your spot isn’t enough—you need a strategy to attract renters and optimize profits.
1. Price Competitively
Research what nearby lots and garages charge for event parking. Price slightly lower to attract more bookings.
2. Highlight Convenience
Emphasize proximity to the venue, safety, and ease of access in your listing.
3. Offer Amenities
If possible, include perks like:
– Covered parking
– 24/7 access
– Security lighting
4. Promote Your Listing
Share your spot on local Facebook groups, Craigslist, or campus bulletin boards to reach more renters.
5. Use Dynamic Pricing
Adjust rates based on demand. Charge more for prime events (e.g., rivalry games) and less for lower-attendance events.
Legal and Safety Considerations
Before renting out your spot, ensure you’re complying with local laws and protecting yourself:
- Check Lease/HOA Rules: If you rent or live in a community with an HOA, verify that subleasing parking is allowed.
- Liability Insurance: Some apps offer coverage, but confirm whether you need additional protection.
- Clear Agreements: Use the app’s terms or a written agreement to outline rules (e.g., no overnight parking).
Tools and Resources to Get Started
- Google Maps: Measure walking distance to the venue to highlight convenience.
- Canva: Create eye-catching flyers to promote your spot locally.
- Local Event Calendars: Track high-demand dates to plan availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much can I earn by renting my parking spot?
Earnings vary by location and event demand. Spots near stadiums can fetch $20–$100 per event.
2. Do I need to meet renters in person?
Most apps handle payments and access digitally, so in-person interaction isn’t necessary.
3. What if a renter damages my property?
Choose platforms with insurance coverage or require a security deposit.
4. Can I rent my spot if I don’t own the property?
Check your lease or rental agreement first—some prohibit subleasing parking spaces.
5. How do I handle no-shows or cancellations?
Use apps with clear cancellation policies to avoid lost income.
Conclusion
Renting your parking spot during campus events is an easy way to earn extra income while solving a real problem for visitors. By leveraging apps like SpotHero, ParkMobile, or Neighbor, you can connect with drivers willing to pay for convenience.
Start by listing your space, optimizing your pricing, and promoting it locally. With minimal effort, you can turn unused parking into a profitable side hustle—just in time for the next big game or graduation.
Ready to get started? Choose an app, create your listing, and watch your parking spot pay off!