As North American air travelers prepare for the peak summer season, a new report reveals that Miami International Airport (MIA) ranks among the most expensive airports for pre-flight essentials. According to a recent study by Casino.ca, MIA is second in the nation for parking costs and well above average for hotel rates and beer prices.
Conducted in June 2025, the travel cost analysis examined the 50 busiest airports across North America. Researchers calculated the average combined cost of a one-night hotel stay near the airport, one night of parking, and a single 20-ounce pint of beer purchased at an airport restaurant or bar.
LaGuardia Tops the List, MIA Close Behind in Parking Costs
Leading the list as the most expensive overall was New York City’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA), with an average spend of $381.41. While MIA did not rank among the top three airports overall, it stood out with one of the highest overnight parking fees at $41, trailing only Nashville International’s $42 rate. In comparison, the average cost for airport parking across all 50 airports was $26.51.
Miami’s hotel prices and beer costs also ranked above average. Although not as expensive as LaGuardia or Denver International, MIA travelers can expect to pay near or above the national averages of $179.89 for a hotel stay and $8.02 for a beer.
Travelers Praise MIA’s Convenience—But Not Its Costs
Despite the high price tags, Miami International Airport continues to receive mixed reviews from travelers. Known for its extensive international connections—especially to Latin America—MIA ranks highly in terms of global accessibility and flight frequency. The airport serves over 50 million passengers annually and is a key gateway to the southeastern United States.
However, in customer satisfaction rankings, MIA has often landed in the middle of the pack. According to J.D. Power’s 2024 North America Airport Satisfaction Study, MIA ranked below average among “mega” airports, with travelers citing long security lines, limited dining options, and high prices as recurring issues.
A 2025 Skytrax survey of global airports also placed MIA outside the top 30 worldwide. Nonetheless, it performed better in categories such as immigration processing speed and airport signage. Miami’s multilingual staff and cultural representation—reflected in terminal music, art, and cuisine—were noted as standout features.
Value vs. Volume: MIA Remains a Popular but Pricey Choice
While MIA may not offer the lowest prices, it remains an essential hub for both domestic and international travel. With ongoing terminal upgrades and expanded parking options in development, Miami-Dade officials assure that improvements are underway to enhance the traveler experience. For budget-conscious flyers, considering hidden costs like parking and hotel stays may be more crucial than ever, especially as airfare prices have risen by 25% from last year. The report highlights how quickly the total cost of travel can escalate, even before takeoff.
