The Cities With The Cheapest Rental Cars In The US

If you’re planning a road trip across the US, or just want to explore a new city on a budget, you might be wondering where to find the cheapest rental cars. Renting a car can be a significant expense, especially if you’re traveling for a long time or to a popular destination. But don’t worry, I have the answer for you. In this blog post, I will reveal the cities with the cheapest rental cars in the US, based on data from various sources and my own personal experience. You’ll be surprised by some of the places that made the list, and how much you can save by choosing them. Read on to find out more!

According to a study, the cities with the cheapest rental cars in the US as of June 2023 are: Charlotte, North Carolina; Los Angeles, California; Orlando, Florida; Dallas, Texas; and Las Vegas, Nevada. These cities offer the lowest weekly rates of less than $300 for an economy car, These rates are based on a comparison of 50 major US destinations and their car rental prices for the summer season.

But how did these cities manage to offer such low prices for rental cars? And what are the best tips and tricks to find the best deals in these locations? In the following paragraphs, I will explain the factors that influence the car rental market and share some of the secrets that I have learned from years of traveling and renting cars. You’ll discover how to save money, avoid hidden fees, and enjoy your trip without breaking the bank. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert!

How to Find the Cheapest Rental Cars in the US

Finding a cheap rental car in the US can be a challenge, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons or to popular destinations. However, with some research and planning, you can save a lot of money on your car rental and enjoy your trip without breaking the bank. Here are some tips on how to find the cheapest rental cars in the US:

• Compare prices from different websites and companies. There are many websites that allow you to compare prices from different car rental companies, such as AutoRentals.com, Rentalcars, Orbitz, and Expedia. You can also use KAYAK to search for car rental deals from hundreds of travel sites in seconds. Some of the cheapest car rental companies are Fox Rent A Car, Advantage Car Rental, Payless Car Rental, Sixt Car Rental, and Thrifty Rent A Car, but prices may vary depending on location, availability, and time of booking.
• Book in advance and use coupons, discounts, and rewards programs. Booking your car rental in advance can help you secure a lower rate and avoid last-minute price hikes. You can also use coupons, discounts, and rewards programs to save more money on your car rental. For example, Expedia offers rewards points and bundling options that can save you money. You can also check out websites like Car Rental Savers and NerdWallet for more tips on how to find coupons and discounts for car rentals.
• Choose the right car type and location for your trip and budget. The type of car you rent can affect the price of your car rental. Generally, smaller and more fuel-efficient cars are cheaper than larger and more luxurious ones. However, you should also consider your comfort, safety, and luggage space when choosing a car. You can also save money by choosing an off-airport location for your car rental, as on-airport rentals tend to have higher fees and taxes. However, you should factor in the cost and convenience of transportation to and from the off-airport location as well.
• Avoid hidden fees and extra charges. When renting a car in the US, you should be aware of the hidden fees and extra charges that may be added to your bill. These include insurance, taxes, surcharges, tolls, fuel charges, underage driver fees, additional driver fees, drop-off fees, and more. You should read the terms and conditions of your car rental carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear. You should also check your own insurance coverage and credit card benefits to see if they cover your car rental insurance needs. You can also save money by bringing your own GPS device, child seat, or other accessories instead of renting them from the car rental company.

The Top 5 Cities with the Lowest Car Rental Rates

You might be wondering which cities in the US offer the lowest car rental rates and how much you can save by choosing them. According to my research on main aggregator sites with conditions of 5 passengers, 2 large luggage, unlimited miles, and picking up the car at the airport, the cities with the cheapest rental cars in the US as of June 2023 are:

• Charlotte, North Carolina. The lowest weekly rate for a Economy car in Charlotte is $197, making it the cheapest city for car rentals in the US. Charlotte is a vibrant and diverse city in the heart of the Piedmont region. It is a major business and cultural hub, as well as a sports and entertainment destination. You can learn about the city’s history and heritage at the Historic Rosedale Plantation, the Levine Museum of the New South, or the Billy Graham Library. You can also enjoy the city’s arts and science scene at the Mint Museum, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, or the Discovery Place Science. Charlotte is also home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, where you can explore the legacy and legends of motor racing. If you are looking for some fun and thrill, you can visit Carowinds, an amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and live shows. Charlotte is a city that offers something for everyone. 
• Los Angeles, California. The lowest weekly rate for a Economy car in Los Angeles is $232, making it the second cheapest city for car rentals in the US. Los Angeles is a sprawling and diverse city that offers something for everyone. You can visit Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and other famous landmarks. You can also explore the cultural and artistic scene of LA, with its museums, theaters, galleries, and music venues. LA has a mild and sunny climate most of the year, with occasional rain and fog.
• Orlando, Florida. The lowest weekly rate for a Economy car in Orlando is $235, making it the third cheapest city for car rentals in the US. Orlando is a popular destination for families and theme park lovers, as it is home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and more. However, you can also enjoy other attractions such as golf courses, museums, gardens, and natural parks. Orlando has a warm and sunny climate year-round, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
• Dallas, Texas. The lowest weekly rate for a Economy car in Dallas is $266, making it the fourth cheapest city for car rentals in the US. Dallas is a vibrant and diverse city in the heart of Texas. Whether you are looking for culture, nature, history, or entertainment, you will find something to suit your taste in Dallas. You can admire the stunning skyline from the Reunion Tower observation deck, explore the rich art scene at the Dallas Museum of Art, enjoy the green spaces at the Klyde Warren Park, or savor the delicious Tex-Mex cuisine at one of the many restaurants. Dallas also offers a variety of shopping options, from trendy boutiques in Deep Ellum to upscale malls like NorthPark Center. No matter what your interests are, Dallas has something for everyone.
• Las Vegas, Nevada. The lowest weekly rate for a Economy car in Las Vegas, Nevada is $273, making it the fifth cheapest city for car rentals in the US. Las Vegas is a dazzling and dynamic city in the desert of Nevada. It is known as the entertainment capital of the world, offering endless options for fun and excitement. You can experience the glamour and glitz of the Las Vegas Strip, where you will find luxurious casinos, world-class hotels, and spectacular shows. You can also explore the historic and cultural side of the city at the Fremont Street Experience, where you can enjoy live music, street performers, and neon lights. Las Vegas also has plenty of attractions for nature lovers, such as the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, where you can hike, bike, or climb among stunning rock formations. Las Vegas is a city that never sleeps, so you can always find something to do, see, or eat.

According to my research, there are another two cities that have the lowest weekly rate for an economy car under $300. One is in Phoenix, Arizona; it’s $276; another is in Chicago; it’s 290. So you can do your own searching on the aggregator sites for the rate in those cities above; it would be a higher possibility to find the cheapest possible weekly rate for a rental car in the US.

Why These Cities Offer Such Great Deals

You might be curious why these cities offer such low prices for rental cars, and what factors influence the car rental market. There are several factors that affect car rental prices, such as:

• The season and location. The season and location are two of the most significant factors that affect car rental prices. During peak travel seasons, prices are likely to be higher, as demand increases and supply decreases. Similarly, rental cars in big cities or popular tourist destinations are often more expensive than cars in less-popular areas, as competition and taxes are higher. The cities with the cheapest rental cars tend to have lower demand and more availability, especially during off-peak seasons. For example, Orlando and Miami have lower prices in the summer, as many travelers prefer cooler destinations. Los Angeles and Las Vegas have lower prices in the winter, as fewer people visit for outdoor activities.
• The type of vehicle you need. The type of vehicle you need also affects the price of your car rental. Generally, smaller and more fuel-efficient cars are cheaper than larger and more luxurious ones. However, the type of vehicle you need may depend on your trip purpose, comfort level, luggage space, and number of passengers. You should also consider the fuel costs and mileage limits of different vehicles when choosing a car. Sometimes, a larger or more expensive car may offer better value or savings in the long run.
• The booking process and timing. The booking process and timing can also influence the price of your car rental. Booking your car rental in advance can help you secure a lower rate and avoid last-minute price hikes. You can also use websites that compare prices from different companies, such as AutoRentals.com, Rentalcars, Orbitz, and Expedia, or use KAYAK to search for car rental deals from hundreds of travel sites in seconds. You can also use coupons, discounts, and rewards programs to save more money on your car rental . However, you should also be flexible and check for price changes regularly, as sometimes you may find a better deal closer to your travel date.
• The fuel policy and insurance coverage. The fuel policy and insurance coverage are two of the most important aspects of your car rental contract that can affect the price of your car rental. The fuel policy determines how much fuel you need to return the car with, and how much you will be charged if you don’t comply. Some companies offer full-to-full policies, where you return the car with a full tank of gas. Others offer prepay policies, where you pay for a full tank of gas upfront and return the car empty. You should compare the fuel costs and policies of different companies and choose the one that suits your needs best. The insurance coverage determines how much liability you have in case of an accident or damage to the car. Some companies offer basic coverage that covers third-party liability and theft protection. Others offer additional coverage that covers collision damage waiver, personal accident insurance, personal effects protection, and more. You should check your own insurance coverage and credit card benefits to see if they cover your car rental insurance needs. You should also read the terms and conditions of your car rental contract carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.

How to Choose the Best Car for Your Trip and Budget

Choosing the best car for your trip and budget can be a daunting task, as there are many factors to consider and options to choose from. However, with some research and planning, you can find the car that suits your needs and preferences best. Here are some tips on how to choose the best car for your trip and budget:

• Look up cars that are within your budget. There are a variety of online resources available that will help you find a car that you can afford. Visit reliable car review websites to compare prices and get an idea of what car you should be shopping for. Such websites include: CarMax, Edmunds, and Kelley Blue Book. You can also use websites that compare prices from different car rental companies, such as AutoRentals.com, Rentalcars, Orbitz, and Expedia, or use KAYAK to search for car rental deals from hundreds of travel sites in seconds. You should also factor in the fuel costs, mileage limits, insurance coverage, taxes, fees, and other expenses that may affect the total cost of your car rental.
• Determine your preferred body style. The body style of the car you rent can affect the comfort, performance, and fuel efficiency of your car. Generally, there are four main types of body styles: sedans, SUVs, trucks, and vans. Sedans are the most common and versatile type of car, as they offer a balance of comfort, space, and fuel economy. SUVs are larger and more powerful than sedans, as they offer more cargo space, passenger room, and off-road capability. However, they also consume more gas and may be harder to park or maneuver. Trucks are ideal for hauling heavy loads or towing trailers, as they have powerful engines and large beds. However, they also have less passenger space and comfort than sedans or SUVs. Vans are the best option for carrying a large number of people or a lot of luggage, as they have spacious interiors and sliding doors. However, they also have lower fuel economy and performance than sedans or SUVs.
• Browse reliable, top-rated models. Once you have narrowed down your budget and body style preferences, you can browse reliable, top-rated models that fit your criteria. You can use online resources such as U.S. News & World Report’s new car rankings, used car rankings, and vehicle comparison tool to find the best models for your trip. You can also read customer reviews and ratings on websites such as Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and CarGurus to get an idea of the pros and cons of different models . You should look for models that have high scores in safety, reliability, comfort, performance, and features.
• Test drive. The final step in choosing the best car for your trip and budget is to test drive the models that you are interested in. Test driving allows you to experience the car firsthand and see how it handles on different roads and conditions. You should pay attention to the visibility, steering, braking, acceleration, suspension, noise level, seat comfort, legroom, headroom, cargo space, infotainment system, climate control system, and other features of the car. You should also ask questions about the fuel policy, insurance coverage, mileage limit, drop-off fee, and other terms and conditions of the car rental contract. You should test drive at least three different models before making a final decision.

How to Enjoy Your Road Trip with a Cheap Rental Car

Renting a car for your road trip can be a great way to save money, explore new places, and have fun. However, renting a car can also come with some challenges, such as finding the best deal, avoiding hidden fees, and driving safely. Here are some tips on how to enjoy your road trip with a cheap rental car:

• Play around with your rental dates. The cheapest way to rent a car is to play around with your rental dates. If you can be flexible with your rental duration, you might just snag a good deal. Some companies offer a deal if you book for a certain amount of time, such as a week or a month. Others offer lower rates on weekdays or off-peak seasons. You can also use websites that compare prices from different companies and dates, such as AutoRentals.com, Rentalcars, Orbitz, and Expedia, or use KAYAK to search for car rental deals from hundreds of travel sites in seconds.
• Book off-airport or in nearby cities. Renting a car in a city or in the suburbs is often cheaper than renting one at the airport, where you’ll pay extra taxes and fees. A road trip can be a good chance to take advantage of this perk. Also consider renting a car in nearby cities that may have lower prices than your destination city. For example, if you’re planning to visit Los Angeles, you might find cheaper rates in San Diego or Las Vegas. However, you should also factor in the cost and convenience of transportation to and from the rental location.
• Use coupons, discounts, and rewards programs. Another way to save money on your car rental is to use coupons, discounts, and rewards programs that may be available to you. For example, you can use websites like Car Rental Savers and NerdWallet to find coupons and discounts for car rentals . You can also join rewards programs from car rental companies or online travel agencies that may offer free upgrades, discounts, or free days. You can also check your credit card benefits or membership affiliations (such as AAA or Costco) that may offer car rental discounts or perks.
• Choose the right car type and features. Choosing the right car type and features for your road trip can make a big difference in your comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Generally, smaller and more fuel-efficient cars are cheaper than larger and more luxurious ones. However, you should also consider your trip purpose, comfort level, luggage space, and number of passengers when choosing a car. You should also consider the features that you need or want in your car, such as GPS device, child seat, satellite radio, or Wi-Fi hotspot. Some of these features may be included in your car rental contract, while others may require an extra fee. You can save money by bringing your own accessories instead of renting them from the car rental company.
• Drive safely and responsibly. The most important tip for enjoying your road trip with a cheap rental car is to drive safely and responsibly. You should follow the traffic rules and speed limits of the places you visit, as well as the terms and conditions of your car rental contract. You should also check the condition of your car before and after your trip, and report any damage or issues to the car rental company. You should also return the car with the same amount of fuel as when you picked it up, unless you have a prepay policy. Driving safely and responsibly can help you avoid accidents, fines, fees, or disputes with the car rental company.