California

Cheap Car Hire in California from £15

Los Angeles, CA, United States
26 Mar — 2 Apr
Driver's age: 26-65
Los Angeles, CA, United States
Tue 26/3
Midday
Tue 2/4
Midday

California car hires in 2024

Get helpful information to start your search for the perfect car hire in California. The average price data is based on the last 12 months and was last updated on 19 March 2024.

Most popular company

Budget

Most common car type

Luxury

Average price per day

£43

Cheapest price per day

£15

What are the car hire prices for popular cities in California?

Discover the price range for hiring a car in popular cities across California, helping you budget and make informed decisions for your upcoming travel. There are 388 pickup locations in California to choose from. Price data has been averaged over the last 12 months and was last updated on 19 March 2024.

Price

£18 - £30

Out of all the popular cities in California, San Diego is the cheapest city to rent a car in at just £18/day. Renting a car in San Diego is 40% cheaper than renting one in Ontario where the per day rate is around £30. Other fairly inexpensive cities in California to get a rental car in are: San Francisco (£19/day), Oakland (£20/day), and Los Angeles (£20/day). While these cities typically have cheaper prices than the rest of the country, travelers looking to rent a car in Los Angeles should expect to spend around £20/day on their transportation. The most popular city to rent a car in California is Los Angeles.

What is the cheapest time to rent a car in California?

Discover the most affordable period to rent a car in California 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 19 March 2024.

January

£25

February

£30

March

£35

April

£36

May

£33

June

£35

July

£39

August

£39

September

£34

October

£35

November

£32

December

£32

Currently, the cheapest month to rent a car in California 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.

Popular car types in California

Explore the most popular car models available for hire in California and choose the one that suits your needs. The price data is sourced from various car hire companies and was last updated on 19 March 2024.

At £19/day, small car is the cheapest car type available for hire in California in the past week. Out of 305 car hire agencies operating in California, there are, in total, 15,369 hire locations. View below for 7 offered car types:

Economy

Economy

Compact

Compact

Intermediate

Intermediate

Standard

Standard

Full-size

Full-size

People carrier

People carrier

Full-size SUV

Full-size SUV

Premium

Premium

Luxury

Luxury

Convertible

Convertible

Compact SUV

Compact SUV

Intermediate SUV

Intermediate SUV

Standard SUV

Standard SUV

Compare available car types for hire in California

Compare and contrast the various car types offered for hire in California to find the perfect fit for your trip. Price data is based on averages over the last 12 months and was last updated on 19 March 2024.

Small cars

£29 - £44

All Car Types

£36 - £63

To hire a small car in California, you would pay an average price of £38/day. January is the cheapest month to hire a small car in California (~£29/day), while the most expensive month to hire that same car type is August (~£44/day). In fact, January is about 24% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a small car hire for California. When comparing with other car types available for hire in California, hiring a small car saves you 24% 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 California small car hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a medium car in California, you would pay an average price of £44/day. January is the cheapest month to hire a medium car in California (~£32/day), while the most expensive month to hire that same car type is October (~£53/day). In fact, January is about 28% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a medium car hire for California. When comparing with other car types available for hire in California, hiring a medium car saves you 12% 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 California medium car hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a large car in California, you would pay an average price of £61/day. January is the cheapest month to hire a large car in California (~£42/day), while the most expensive month to hire that same car type is October (~£82/day). In fact, January is about 33% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a large car hire for California. When comparing with other car types available for hire in California, hiring a large car is 20% 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 California large car hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a SUV in California, you would pay an average price of £44/day. January is the cheapest month to hire a SUV in California (~£35/day), while the most expensive month to hire that same car type is October (~£59/day). In fact, January is about 21% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a SUV hire for California. When comparing with other car types available for hire in California, hiring a SUV saves you 12% 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 California SUV hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a van in California, you would pay an average price of £76/day. February is the cheapest month to hire a van in California (~£50/day), while the most expensive month to hire that same car type is December (~£125/day). In fact, February is about 36% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a van hire for California. When comparing with other car types available for hire in California, hiring a van is 36% 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 California van hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a pickup truck in California, you would pay an average price of £58/day. January is the cheapest month to hire a pickup truck in California (~£32/day), while the most expensive month to hire that same car type is August (~£93/day). In fact, January is about 45% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a pickup truck hire for California. When comparing with other car types available for hire in California, hiring a pickup truck 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.

To hire a luxury car in California, you would pay an average price of £55/day. January is the cheapest month to hire a luxury car in California (~£39/day), while the most expensive month to hire that same car type is July (~£68/day). In fact, January is about 31% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a luxury car hire for California. When comparing with other car types available for hire in California, hiring a luxury car is 11% 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 California luxury car hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a convertible in California, you would pay an average price of £66/day. January is the cheapest month to hire a convertible in California (~£46/day), while the most expensive month to hire that same car type is October (~£90/day). In fact, January is about 32% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a convertible hire for California. When comparing with other car types available for hire in California, hiring a convertible is 26% 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 California convertible hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

Kia Cee'd£19/day
4
M
A/C
Kia Cee'd
Toyota Yaris£19/day
2
M
A/C
Toyota Yaris
Ford Fiesta£20/day
2
M
A/C
Ford Fiesta

Tips for hiring a car in California

Browse helpful tips for hiring a car in California including age restrictions, car type suggestions and more. Tips were last updated on 19 March 2024.
  • In California, child safety is paramount. Children under the age of eight or shorter than 150 cm tall must be securely fastened in an appropriate child safety seat in the back seat of the vehicle. Parents should travel with a car seat to ensure compliance with local laws. Many car hire agencies in California offer car seats for an additional fee, but it's wise to confirm availability and book in advance for peace of mind.
  • When hiring a car in California, crossing state borders is common, especially to nearby states like Nevada or Arizona. Be aware that some hire agencies may impose additional fees for taking the vehicle out of state. Ensure you have the necessary documentation, including your driver's licence and hire agreement. It's essential to review the hire terms and check with the agency about any restrictions or fees associated with border crossings to have a smooth interstate journey.
  • In California, you'll find car hire services at major airports like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO). At LAX, car hire desks are located in the arrival terminals, including Terminals 1, 2, 3 and 7. At SFO, you'll find them in the Rental Car Center, accessible by AirTrain. No need for airport shuttles; they're conveniently within the terminals or nearby, ensuring a hassle-free pickup for your California road trip.
  • California is a beautiful state to explore by car, but it can also be tricky to navigate at times. You should be aware of the peak traffic hours on weekdays, which are usually from 7:00 to 9:00 and from 16:30 to 19:00. Some of the worst traffic jams occur on the 405, the 5 and the 101 freeways. In summer, some of the desert regions such as Death Valley and Joshua Tree get very hot and dry. Make sure you have enough water and fuel and a functioning air conditioner in your car.

Top hire agencies in California

Explore the leading car hire agencies in California known for their outstanding service and extensive range of vehicles to choose from. There are currently 8 car hire companies in California. Reviews were last updated on 19 March 2024.
Hire a vehicle with one of these top car hire agencies serving California, including those serving the Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego area. Make sure to take a look at reviews from past customers, daily rate and other charges, and pickup location before making your decision.

Alamo

8.6
Very Good
1232 reviews14 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

8.8

Comfort

8.8

Overall

8.6

Pick-up/drop-off

8.6

Value

8.3

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

7.8
Good
1610 reviews105 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

8.0

Comfort

8.1

Overall

7.8

Pick-up/drop-off

7.7

Value

7.7

Budget

6.4
Okay
2077 reviews57 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.1

Comfort

7.2

Overall

6.4

Pick-up/drop-off

6.4

Value

6.5

Avis

6.3
Okay
1232 reviews58 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.1

Comfort

7.1

Overall

6.3

Pick-up/drop-off

6.4

Value

6.5

Hertz

6.2
Okay
3399 reviews94 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.0

Comfort

6.8

Overall

6.1

Pick-up/drop-off

6.1

Value

6.3

Dollar

6.2
Okay
1801 reviews22 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.2

Comfort

7.0

Overall

6.1

Pick-up/drop-off

6.0

Value

6.4

Thrifty

6.1
Okay
1679 reviews23 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.0

Comfort

6.8

Overall

6.0

Pick-up/drop-off

5.9

Value

6.2

Sixt

7.5
Good
669 reviews15 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

8.0

Comfort

8.0

Overall

7.5

Pick-up/drop-off

7.4

Value

7.3

Best California car hire deals found

Browse through a selection of recently found affordable car hire deals in California. Plan your trip with ease and find the perfect hire option for your needs. There are currently 8 hire car agencies in California with an average daily rate of £26. Data was last updated on 19 March 2024.
Take a peek at some options we've found for car hires in California, including locations near Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego. Make sure to examine important information for each deal, including price, car type, and pickup location.
Kia Cee'd£19/day
4
M
A/C
Kia Cee'd
Peugeot 508£19/day
5
M
A/C
Peugeot 508
Ford Fiesta£19/day
2
M
A/C
Ford Fiesta

Car hire FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions about car hires in California, including policies, requirements, and more. FAQs were last updated on 19 March 2024.
  • Should I hire a car in California?

    Hiring a car in California offers the freedom to explore this diverse region to the fullest. With its vast landscapes and stunning scenery, driving allows you to access attractions that might be challenging to reach by public transport. The Golden State boasts excellent highways, making it a breeze to travel between cities and explore hidden gems along the way. Plus, iconic spots like the scenic Pacific Coast Highway or Yosemite National Park are best experienced with a car. So, for convenience, flexibility and the chance to uncover California's hidden treasures, hiring a car is the way to go.

  • What is driving like in California?

    Driving in California is an adventure in itself. The driving culture here is relaxed and laid-back, especially along the picturesque Pacific Coast. However, traffic congestion in major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco can be challenging during peak hours, so plan accordingly. California has some special driving rules that you should be aware of. For example, you can make a right turn at a red light after stopping and checking for traffic, unless there is a sign that says otherwise. You can also use the carpool lanes (also called diamond lanes) on some freeways if you have at least two people in your car, but you should follow the signs that indicate when and where you can enter or exit them.

  • How old do you have to be to hire a car in California?

    To hire a car in California, you generally need to be at least 21 years old. Some hire agencies may serve drivers as young as 18 but often with additional fees. You'll need a valid driver's licence, and for international visitors, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. Your driver's licence must be valid for the entire hiring period. Also, most hire companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security. Be sure to check the specific age and licence requirements with the hire agency you choose for a smooth car hire experience in California.

  • What is the cheapest hire car found in California?

    In the past two weeks, Cheapflights users have found many deals under £41/day when booking a car hire in California. The absolute best deal a user found was for £22/day from Turo, booked on Mar. 10.

  • What car hire company is typically the cheapest in California?

    According to our data, users have found the cheapest deals when booking a car hire in California from the following companies over the past two weeks: Yesaway (£19/day), Fox (£19/day), and Turo (£20/day).

  • Which car hire company is considered to be the best in California?

    Taking our users’ ratings and reviews into consideration, Super Cheap (10.0 rating), Signature Rent A Car (10.0 rating) and Priceless (9.2 rating) seem to be the best car hire companies in California.

  • What are petrol prices like in California?

    The average price of petrol in California is £0.76/litre over the past month, costing you anywhere between £34 and £49 to fill up a car’s fuel tank.

  • How much does it cost to hire a car in California for a week from Budget?

    Hiring a car in California for a week can be a great option for travel. Budget, the most popular car hire company for this area, offers hire cars for around £335/week on average.

  • How far in advance should I hire a car in California for the best price?

    Booking early can save you upwards of 28% on your car hire. Booking your vehicle at least 7 days in advance can you get you a great below-average price in California.

  • Can I rent a car for a month in California?

    Typically, how long you can hire a car for depends on the inventory of the supplier. For California however, it is certainly possible to rent a car for an entire month.

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

    You can potentially save up to 73% on a month-long rental by booking with Turo. Turo is the cheapest rental company available within the next few months. Renting a car in California can cost you on average £1,434 a month or £48 a day. For extended stays in a location, this option will usually save you the most.

See more FAQs

Small car hires in California

Find small car hire deals in California from well-known providers in the area and save on gas mileage with the options provided below. small car hires in California cost an average of £20 per day. Price data was last updated on 19 March 2024.
Chevrolet Spark£15/day
2
M
A/C
Chevrolet Spark
Chevrolet Spark£16/day
2
M
A/C
Chevrolet Spark
Hyundai i10£19/day
2
M
A/C
Hyundai i10

People carrier hires in California

Find people carrier hire deals in California from well-known providers in the area and save on gas mileage with the options provided below. people carrier hires in California cost an average of £24 per day. Price data was last updated on 19 March 2024.
For those needing a little more space, we've found these great deals on people carrier hires in California, including pickup near Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego. We're constantly updating these deals so check back soon if you don't find what you're looking for.
Kia Carens£23/day
5
M
A/C
Kia Carens
Kia Carens£23/day
5
M
A/C
Kia Carens
Ford Galaxy£23/day
5
M
A/C
Ford Galaxy

Car hires by fuel type in California

Browse car hires by fuel type in California. Currently, Electric cars are the cheapest to rent in California. Deals were last updated on 19 March 2024.

Browse through car hire deals by fuel type in California. There are currently 3 fuel types to choose from with Electric being the cheapest (£25+).

Electric

Electric

Hybrid

Hybrid

Petrol/Diesel

Petrol/Diesel

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