San Diego

Cheap Car Rentals in San Diego from $17

This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a Cheapflights user in the last 48 hours by searching for a car rental in San Diego with a pick-up date of 1/16 and drop-off date of 1/20. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of rental.
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San Diego car rentals in 2024

Get helpful information to start your search for the perfect car rental in San Diego. The average price data is based on the last 12 months and was last updated on December 23, 2024.

Most popular company

PAYLESS

Price of gas per gallon

$3.41

Average price per day

$33

Cheapest price per day

$17

What is the cheapest time to rent a car in San Diego?

Discover the most affordable period to rent a car in San Diego and save money on your trip. The monthly average price data is based on historical data over the last year and was last updated on December 23, 2024.

January

$34

February

$44

March

$53

April

$46

May

$47

June

$53

July

$56

August

$52

September

$46

October

$50

November

$48

December

$49

Currently, the cheapest month to rent a car in San Diego is January. The most expensive time to rent a car is July. The cheapest prices for each month are shown above, but prices will vary based on availability, how far out you book your rental car, and of course, car type.

Compare available car types for rental in San Diego

Compare and contrast the various car types offered for rental in San Diego to find the perfect fit for your trip. Price data is based on averages over the last 12 months and was last updated on December 23, 2024.

Small cars

$40 - $53

All Car Types

$51 - $69

To rent a small car in San Diego, the United States, you would pay an average price of $46/day. April is the cheapest month to rent a small car in San Diego, the United States (~$40/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is May (~$53/day). In fact, April is about 15% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a small car rental for San Diego. When comparing with other car types available for rental in San Diego, renting a small car saves you 19% in costs. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best San Diego small car rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a medium car in San Diego, the United States, you would pay an average price of $45/day. August is the cheapest month to rent a medium car in San Diego, the United States (~$37/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is March (~$55/day). In fact, August is about 18% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a medium car rental for San Diego. When comparing with other car types available for rental in San Diego, renting a medium car saves you 23% in costs. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best San Diego medium car rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a large car in San Diego, the United States, you would pay an average price of $66/day. September is the cheapest month to rent a large car in San Diego, the United States (~$57/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is March (~$82/day). In fact, September is about 15% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a large car rental for San Diego. When comparing with other car types available for rental in San Diego, renting a large car is 14% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best San Diego large car rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a SUV in San Diego, the United States, you would pay an average price of $57/day. November is the cheapest month to rent a SUV in San Diego, the United States (~$51/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is March (~$64/day). In fact, November is about 13% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a SUV rental for San Diego. When comparing with other car types available for rental in San Diego, renting a SUV saves you 0% in costs. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best San Diego SUV rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a van in San Diego, the United States, you would pay an average price of $106/day. September is the cheapest month to rent a van in San Diego, the United States (~$93/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is July (~$121/day). In fact, September is about 13% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a van rental for San Diego. When comparing with other car types available for rental in San Diego, renting a van is 46% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best San Diego van rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a pickup truck in San Diego, the United States, you would pay an average price of $76/day. October is the cheapest month to rent a pickup truck in San Diego, the United States (~$43/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is May (~$135/day). In fact, October is about 45% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a pickup truck rental for San Diego. When comparing with other car types available for rental in San Diego, renting a pickup truck is 25% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity.

To rent a luxury car in San Diego, the United States, you would pay an average price of $86/day. November is the cheapest month to rent a luxury car in San Diego, the United States (~$67/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is May (~$102/day). In fact, November is about 23% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a luxury car rental for San Diego. When comparing with other car types available for rental in San Diego, renting a luxury car is 34% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best San Diego luxury car rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a convertible in San Diego, the United States, you would pay an average price of $97/day. April is the cheapest month to rent a convertible in San Diego, the United States (~$86/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is October (~$111/day). In fact, April is about 12% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a convertible rental for San Diego. When comparing with other car types available for rental in San Diego, renting a convertible is 41% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best San Diego convertible rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

Kia Picanto$17/day
2
M
A/C
Kia Picanto
Nissan Versa$21/day
4
M
A/C
Nissan Versa
Nissan Sylphy$21/day
4
M
A/C
Nissan Sylphy

Tips for renting a car in San Diego

Browse helpful tips for renting a car in San Diego including age restrictions, car type suggestions and more. Tips were last updated on December 23, 2024.
  • Take a road trip and explore the nearby cities of Los Angeles, Anaheim, and San Francisco. You can also visit the stunning beaches of La Jolla or the stunning national parks of Joshua Tree and Death Valley. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and attractions of these cities and places.
  • In San Diego, it is important to be aware of the speed limits, as well as the laws regarding turning right on red and the use of cell phones while driving. It is also important to remember to use your turn signal and obey all traffic signals. Seatbelt usage is also mandatory in California.
  • Renting a car in San Diego provides travelers with the flexibility to explore the city at their own pace. With car rental, travelers can easily access attractions and destinations that are not within walking or public transportation distance. Additionally, they can benefit from the convenience of having their transportation and not having to rely on public transportation schedules.
  • You can drive to other states, regions, or countries with a rental car from San Diego. However, you should check with the rental company first to ensure that your rental car is allowed to cross state lines or international borders. Additionally, make sure to read the rental agreement and confirm that your insurance will cover any damages incurred outside of the state.
  • Passengers arriving in San Diego will likely land at San Diego International Airport (SAN). Various car rental providers offer on-site car rental services at the airport. The car rental companies at SAN include Budget, Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz, and SIXT. Typically, the car rental counters are located at the car center, easily accessible from the airport terminals. Specialized shuttle service offers daily free transportation from terminals to the car rental center.
  • Driving in San Diego is generally easy, and the roads are well-kept. However, like many major cities, San Diego faces significant traffic congestion during peak hours. In San Diego, morning rush hour normally occurs on weekdays between 7 am and 9 am as commuters go to work and school. The evening rush is usually between 4 pm and 6 pm. Various major highways and commuter routes may become clogged during these hours. Some roads affected during peak travel times include Interstate 5 (I-5) and Interstate 805 (I-805).
  • Getting from SAN to downtown San Diego is a simple and convenient journey. From the airport, follow the signs to Harbor Drive. You will then merge into N Harbor Drive from Harbor Drive and continue straight. N Harbor Drive will take you south, towards downtown San Diego. Continue on N Harbor Drive until you reach downtown. The trip from SAN to downtown San Diego takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic. This direct route offers a speedy and efficient trip, allowing travelers to arrive in downtown San Diego on time.
  • Sustainable travel is becoming increasingly popular in San Diego, with car rental companies providing eco-friendly cars to their customers. Hertz, a well-known car rental company, provides electric cars in San Diego. They provide a variety of electronic cars, including well-known models such as the Tesla Model 3. These eco-friendly cars can be rented from Hertz agencies in San Diego, including those at SAN. Other companies like Budget and Avis also offer electric car rental options.

Top rental agencies in San Diego

Explore the leading car rental agencies in San Diego known for their outstanding service and extensive range of vehicles to choose from. There are currently 8 car rental companies in San Diego. Reviews were last updated on December 23, 2024.
Rent a car with one of the top providers serving the San Diego area such as Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Avis and Budget. Reviews, pricing info, pickup locations, and other important details are available to aid your decision.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

7.4
Good
115 reviews14 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.7

Comfort

7.7

Overall

7.4

Pick-up/drop-off

7.4

Value

7.3

Avis

6.5
Okay
148 reviews11 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.2

Comfort

7.3

Overall

6.5

Pick-up/drop-off

6.7

Value

6.5

Budget

6.5
Okay
116 reviews11 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.3

Comfort

7.3

Overall

6.5

Pick-up/drop-off

6.6

Value

6.6

Hertz

5.8
Fair
321 reviews12 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

6.6

Comfort

6.4

Overall

5.7

Pick-up/drop-off

5.8

Value

5.9

Ace

4.2
Mediocre
128 reviews3 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

4.9

Comfort

4.7

Overall

4.0

Pick-up/drop-off

3.9

Value

4.4

MEXRENTACAR

3.9
Poor
238 reviews4 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

4.5

Comfort

4.5

Overall

3.8

Pick-up/drop-off

3.7

Value

4.1

Sixt

6.8
Okay
83 reviews3 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.3

Comfort

7.3

Overall

6.9

Pick-up/drop-off

6.8

Value

6.6

Dollar

6.5
Okay
50 reviews8 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.7

Comfort

7.4

Overall

6.4

Pick-up/drop-off

6.5

Value

6.7

Best San Diego car rental deals found

Browse through a selection of recently found affordable car rental deals in San Diego. Plan your trip with ease and find the perfect rental option for your needs. There are currently 8 rental car agencies in San Diego with an average daily rate of $33. Data was last updated on December 23, 2024.
Some of the most attractive options when it comes to renting a car in San Diego. Deals are updated frequently so be sure to check back soon for more options.
Kia Picanto$17/day
2
M
A/C
Kia Picanto
Toyota Camry$20/day
5
M
A/C
Toyota Camry
Nissan Versa$21/day
4
M
A/C
Nissan Versa

Car rental FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions about car rentals in San Diego, including policies, requirements, and more. FAQs were last updated on December 23, 2024.
  • What documentation do I need to rent a car in San Diego?

    The documentation you will need to rent a car in San Diego will vary depending on the rental company you use and the type of vehicle you choose. Generally, you will need to provide your valid driver’s license, a credit card for the deposit, and proof of insurance. You may also need to provide proof of residence, such as a utility bill or bank statement. If you are renting from a large company, you may also need to provide a valid passport or other forms of photo identification. Some companies may also require a valid visa or residence permit if you are not a U.S. citizen. If you are under the age of 25, you may also be subject to an additional fee and/or need to provide a valid credit card for additional age verification.

  • What are the local drivers like in San Diego that visitors with a rental car should be aware of?

    Drivers in San Diego tend to be very courteous and most locals will follow the rules of the road. One thing to be aware of is that the speed limits are strictly enforced and there is an abundance of speed traps. Additionally, San Diego drivers tend to be very cautious and are often slow to react to changing traffic patterns. It is important to remain patient and give other drivers plenty of time to react. In addition, drivers in San Diego often rely on the use of their car horns to indicate to other drivers that they are turning or merging into traffic. It is important to pay attention and be aware of this practice. Finally, San Diego drivers tend to be very respectful of pedestrians and cyclists and will often slow down or yield to them when necessary.

  • What roads are the most congested in San Diego and during what time/s of day does this occur?

    The most congested roads in San Diego are Interstate 5, Interstate 8, Interstate 15, and Highway 163. These roads are heavily congested during morning and evening rush hours, typically between 7 am and 9 am, as well as between 4 pm and 6 pm. If you will be driving on any of the above-mentioned roads, consider planning your trips around the rush hour periods to avoid getting stuck in traffic. Additionally, the roads leading to and from San Diego International Airport (SAN) experience heavy congestion during peak travel times. During the summer months, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) often experiences heavy congestion due to the influx of tourists visiting the area. Additionally, the roads around downtown San Diego are often congested with commuters during the weekdays.

  • What is the minimum age to rent a car in San Diego?

    The age restriction for renting a car in San Diego varies depending on the car rental agency. Generally, the minimum age to rent a car in San Diego is 21 years. However, it is essential to note that drivers aged 21 and 24 may be subject to a young driver's fee. The young driver’s surcharge fee ranges from around $25 to $30, depending on the company. Some rental car companies have a higher minimum age restriction for different car categories. For instance, Budget does not allow drivers under 25 years to rent SUVs, Luxury cars, and vans.

  • What car rental companies should I consider for renting an accessible vehicle in San Diego?

    If you have particular accessibility needs, several San Diego car rental companies offer accessible vehicle options that suit your needs. Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, and National are among the companies to consider. Hertz has an accessible program that includes vehicles with mobility aids, including hand controls, scooter vehicles, and wheelchair-accessible vans. Their reservation team also offers assistance during the rental process. National operates the National Accessibility Center, which provides support services to people with disabilities and accessible cars with spinner knobs, hand controls, and wheelchair-accessible vans.

  • Can I drive to other states, regions, or countries with a rental car from San Diego?

    Most car rental companies allow you to drive from San Diego to other states and regions. Enterprise, Budget, and Hertz usually allow travel outside of California as long as the state you're visiting offers a drop-off site. However, confirming your chosen rental car company's specific policies regarding out-of-state travel is critical. If you intend to drive to nearby countries, it is important to inquire about the rental company's cross-border travel restrictions and criteria. This may include having the relevant papers, such as a valid passport, visas, international driving insurance, and, if required, an international driving permit.

  • What is the cheapest rental car found in San Diego?

    In the past two weeks, Cheapflights users have found many deals under $33/day when booking a rental car in San Diego. The best deal a user found was for $14/day from Getaround, booked on Dec. 22.

  • What car rental company is typically the cheapest in San Diego?

    According to our data, users have found the cheapest deals when booking a rental car in San Diego from the following companies over the past two weeks: Economy Rent a Car ($17/day), Sixt ($21/day), and NU Car ($21/day).

  • Which car rental company is considered to be the best in San Diego?

    Taking our users’ ratings and reviews into consideration, Advantage (10.0 rating), Silvercar (10.0 rating) and National (8.7 rating) seem to be the best rental car companies in San Diego.

  • What are gas prices like in San Diego?

    The average gas price in San Diego is $3.41/gallon over the past month, costing you anywhere between $40 and $58 to fill up a car’s gas tank.

  • How much does it cost to rent a car in San Diego for a week from Payless?

    From Payless you can rent a car in San Diego from about $229 per week on average.

  • How far in advance should I rent a car in San Diego for the best price?

    Booking early can save you upwards 40% on your rental. Booking your vehicle at least 7 days in advance can you get you a great below-average price in San Diego.

  • Can I rent a car for a month in San Diego?

    Yes, you can rent a car for a month in San Diego. Check Cheapflights for the latest prices and car type availability.

  • How much does it cost to rent a car in San Diego for a month?

    Our recent data shows that Getaround can potentially be 73% below the average car rental price in San Diego. Check prices and availability for Getaround and save on this extended rental. The cost of renting a vehicle in San Diego is on average $981 a month or $33 a day. Search on Cheapflights for the most updated pricing and availability for your San Diego car rental.

  • How much is a car rental in San Diego for a weekend?

    $71 is typically the average cost for a rental car for the weekend in San Diego, though this could vary depending on the time of year. If you’re on a budget when traveling to San Diego, then opt for a Economy rental vehicle - these tend to be the most affordable on weekends. In the month of January, you can expect to find car rental prices on Cheapflights for as low as $58/day.

  • What car do most people rent in San Diego?

    The most popular car to rent while in San Diego is the Chevrolet Spark, which is a Compact vehicle.

Small car rentals in San Diego

Find small car rental deals in San Diego from well-known providers in the area and save on gas mileage with the options provided below. small car rentals in San Diego cost an average of $26 per day. Price data was last updated on December 23, 2024.
Hyundai i10$25/day
2
M
A/C
Hyundai i10
Hyundai i10$25/day
2
M
A/C
Hyundai i10
Hyundai i10$25/day
2
M
A/C
Hyundai i10

Car rentals by fuel type in San Diego

Browse car rentals by fuel type in San Diego. Currently, Hybrid cars are the cheapest to rent in San Diego. Deals were last updated on December 23, 2024.

Browse through car rental deals by fuel type in San Diego. There are currently 3 fuel types to choose from with Hybrid being the cheapest ($22+).

Electric

Electric

Gas/Diesel

Gas/Diesel

Hybrid

Hybrid

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