In some cities, it can cost just as much for a monthly parking spot as it costs to pay rent. According to a new study by Colliers International, Boston is second to NYC as having the highest median monthly parking rates at $438. This compares to a national average of $155, and $533 in downtown Manhattan and $541 in midtown Manhattan – the highest rates in North America. As for daily median parking rates, Boston is the third highest US city at $34, behind midtown Manhattan;s $41 and Honolulu’s $38.

While Boston is 19% cheaper per month than midtown Manhattan, our city actually saw an increase in rates from last year by 3.1%. Manhattan rates barely moved (up 0.6% for midtown, 0.8% downtown), and the national rate actually decreased by 0.2%. As for daily median rates, costs in Boston went up 6.3%; however, that’s nothing compared to the 20%+ hikes seen in Houston and Washington.

“This year’s parking rate survey reflects a moderately improving economy and better office leasing fundamentals,” said Ross Moore, Colliers International’s chief economist.”The long-term trend is still for rates to move higher, but any near-term movement will be dictated by the vigour of the economic recovery.”

As for the cheapest cities: Reno with a monthly rate of only $45; Phoenix at $50, and Bakersfield at $53.

How does Boston compare with the rest of the world? How about London, the most expensive place to park, with a $1,084 median monthly rate. Or Zurich’s $822, Hong Kong at $745, Tokyo at $744 and Perth, Australia at $717.