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Goleta car rentals from $38/day

This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 72 hours by searching for a car rental in Goleta with a pick-up date of 5/7 and drop-off date of 6/10. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of rental. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
Wed 5/8
Wed 5/15

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Cheap car rentals in Goleta

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates.
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Economy$39/day
Compact$39/day
Intermediate$42/day
Standard$43/day
Full-size$45/day
Minivan$56/day
Full-size SUV$132/day
Premium$48/day
Luxury$85/day
Supplier choice$38/day
Intermediate SUV$49/day
Standard SUV$51/day
Compact SUV$57/day
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Goleta

  • Renting a car from the available car rentals in Goleta is the best decision for travelers visiting the city. There are amazing tourist attractions and scenery places you must see while in Goleta and rental cars will help in exploring them all. You can drive to Long Beach about 99 miles southeast of Goleta and enjoy the beautiful beaches, which is renowned for its surfing and water sports. Campers can visit RV campgrounds including Mount Pacifico Campground, Monte Cristo Campground, and Valley Forge Trail Campground roughly 101 miles east of Goleta. Some of the popular state parks you can explore are Alamitos Park about 100 miles southeast of Goleta and Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park about 102 miles north of the city.
  • Several airports serving the city host car rentals in Goleta accessible to travelers. Those landing at Los Angeles Airport will find onsite counters in Terminal 1 offering car rentals as well as in Terminal 6. Burbank Bob Hope Airport has counters with car rentals in Terminal B as well as in Terminal A.  If you arrive through San Luis Obispo County Airport, find onsite car rental counters in the parking lot and Santa Barbara Airport has car rental desks in the terminal building. When you are at Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport, locate the counters at the entrance to the terminal building.
  • Pedestrians walking in Goleta have the right of way at crosswalks and intersections. Drivers turning left and right must yield to oncoming traffic as well as pedestrians and cyclists crossing the road. When driving behind a school bus and it flashes red lights, you must stop at least 10 feet behind the bus. If you fail to do so, you will be charged with a misdemeanor and face a fine. Emergency vehicles usually have the right of way. However, you must yield to them and give them a wide berth when they are responding to an emergency.
  • Heavy traffic is a major challenge to drivers in Goleta. The city has a dense population with traffic jams and congestion being a constant problem. If you are driving out of Goleta, be prepared for heavy traffic along Highway 101's exits and Storke Road. Morning rush hours begin at around 6:30 am and peak at 9:30 am with tail ends of the traffic jams. In the evenings, the city experiences heavy traffic congestion from around 4 pm through 8 pm.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in Goleta for $41 or less
  • Book your rental car in Goleta at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Intermediate rental cars in Goleta are around 7% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in Goleta

  • How much does it cost to rent a car in Goleta?

    On average a rental car in Goleta costs $49 per day. But prices differ between operators and you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The cheapest price for a car rental in Goleta found in the last 2 weeks is $25.

  • What is the cheapest car rental company in Goleta?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Dollar ($38/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest rental car price was found at Dollar 500 Fowler Road 93117 (1 miles from city center).

  • What is the best rental car company in Goleta?

    Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental company in Goleta is Budget (7.0, 69 reviews).

  • How much is gas price in Goleta?

    The average gas price in Goleta is $3.93 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $47 and $63, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular rental car in Goleta?

    Intermediate (Nissan Rogue or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Goleta.

  • Which car rental companies are at Los Angeles airport (LAX)?

    Car rental companies onsite at Los Angeles airport include Ace, Kyte, Fox, Airport Van, Priceless, Midway, Sixt, Hertz, NextCar and Budget.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at Los Angeles airport (LAX)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Los Angeles airport to off-airport locations include Airport Van, Priceless, Midway, Sixt, Hertz, Alamo, Budget, Thrifty, NU Car, and Enterprise Rent-A-Car.

  • How can I find car rentals near me in Goleta?

    Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.

  • How much does an Intermediate car rental cost in Goleta?

    An Intermediate car rental in Goleta costs $81 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Special car rental cost in Goleta?

    A Special car rental in Goleta costs $52 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Full Size car rental cost in Goleta?

    A Full Size car rental in Goleta costs $154 per day, on average.

  • How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in Goleta?

    On average a rental car in Goleta costs $346 per week ($49 per day).

  • How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in Goleta?

    On average a rental car in Goleta costs $1,482 per month ($49 per day).

  • Should I get insurance when renting a car in Goleta?

    Most car rental providers in Goleta offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Goleta, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.

  • How many car agencies are operating in Goleta?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 7 car rental agencies in Goleta.

  • What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Goleta?

    Finding the right price, understanding the add-ons and staying up to date with policy changes can be a challenge. That’s why KAYAK has produced the ultimate guide to renting a car to help you cut though the jargon and make the right choice for your rental car. Find tips and insights for how to book your rental, what car rental insurance you’ll need, how to deal with a car rental agency and what extra fees to expect (and avoid!).

  • Why should I use KAYAK to rent a car in Goleta?

    KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Goleta so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in Goleta?

    The type of car available from Goleta car rentals recommended for driving in the city is economy. Economy cars are preferred since they have small engines, which run on less fuel. Besides, narrow roads are encountered in the city and economy cars allow for maneuvering through these roads. Economy cars also come with less powerful brakes, so the driver will have to reduce speed during emergencies.  

  • What’s the speed limit in Goleta?

    Drivers in Goleta must abide by the traffic laws including the maximum speed limit when cruising in the city. When driving on most state highways, maintain a maximum speed of 65 mph and 55 mph on two-lane undivided highways. At blind intersections and alleys, drivers can go up to 15 mph while when passing buses, streetcars, and strollers stopped at an intersection, remember the maximum speed is 10 mph. In school zones, business districts, and residential areas, the highest you can go is 25 mph.

  • Where are the best places to park in Goleta?

    Parking in Goleta can be quite tricky depending on what part of the city you are in. However, there are various parking lots you can use including public parking lots and those offered by car rentals in Goleta. These are Camino Real Marketplace Parking Lot on 7004 Market PI Dr, Goleta Slough on Goleta, CA 93117, Calle Real Parking on 5956 Calle Real, Air Pollution Control District Parking lot on 26 Castilian Dr and Ellwood Mesa Beach Parking Lot on Hollister Ave.

Goleta car rental reviews and directory

Dollar

Best rated

Cleanliness

7.7

Comfort

7.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.4

Value for money

6.9

One location in Goleta

Show locations

Locations in Goleta

500 Fowler Road

+1 866 434 2226

Monday07:00 - 21:00
Tuesday07:00 - 21:00
Wednesday07:00 - 21:00
Thursday07:00 - 21:00
Friday07:00 - 21:00
Saturday07:00 - 21:00
Sunday07:00 - 21:00

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Apr 2024

KAYAK
We had to rent somewhere else. There was a line that the person in front of me said they had been waiting over an hour in. There was only one person at the counter and over 10 parties in line. The other car companies had no wait. I paid slightly more but it was worth not waiting over and hour

2.0 Poor

May 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

My flight got in at6pm, the desk had closed at 5pm. No car for me!

Cons:

Knowing that I cannot get a car from Dollar after 5pm, I would have rented from Budget.

10.0 Wonderful

May 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The check in and check out was very quick and easy, and they were very helpful when I had questions on the vehicle.

10.0 Wonderful

Mar 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Yes, staff was terrific. Very helpful.

Cons:

Nothing it was perfect

2.0 Poor

Dec 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

i made a reservation only to arrive and be told there are no vehicles. once i made the reservation, the desk could have at least called to let me know. people make plans and rely on companies to have the product they reserve

3.6 Poor

Jul 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Drop off was easy.

Cons:

I paid for a full size vehicle at least a week in advance. When I arrived to pick it up they didn't have one. We got stuck in a smaller car and couldn't get ahold of any customer service at priceline or kayak.

1 out of 16

Thrifty

5.5

Cleanliness

7.5

Comfort

7.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

5.5

Value for money

7.0

One location in Goleta

Show locations

Locations in Goleta

5971 Placencia Street

+1 805 681 1222

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 18:00

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Mar 2023

KAYAK
The car was dirty, the pick up experience was terrible.

10.0 Wonderful

Sep 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Yes, staff was helpful, service fast, individual ride back to airport, free upgrade.

Cons:

the weather

7.2 Good

Jan 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

The van was nice. Reserving the car was easy.

Cons:

An employee gave us the wrong van. It was not completely clean, the tank was not full and all 4 tires were low. I was somewhat frustrated when I had to top off the tank and put the proper air pressure in the tires. When we returned the van the manager felt very bad and was very apologetic. He handled the situation in a professional manner and ultimately gave us 50% off of the rental cost. Even though the experience started off poorly it was handled very well in the end and I would rent from them again.

10.0 Wonderful

Sep 2016

KAYAK

Pros:

They were very accommodating and friendly

2.0 Poor

Apr 2022

KAYAK
They have a pretty rough operation, an ugly office in a trailer away from the airport. The staff was confused and argued with each other on pickup (did they have a car for me?, where's the key?, etc). Difficulty with computer and paperwork, The car had 125,000 miles on it, but it was fine.

1 out of 2

Hertz

6.2

Cheapest deal
Most popular

One location in Goleta

Show locations

Locations in Goleta

690 S.fairview Ave

+1 805 967 9489

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00

Filters

Reviews

9.2 Wonderful

Mar 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

I experienced great customer service at the Hertz corporate office location in Goleta, CA. It was definitely a much needed positive experience during a rather frustrating time after my car was damaged during a hit-and-run accident. A Hertz staff member drove another customer and I from a local auto body shop to the Hertz office, and the pick-up of the rental car went very smoothly thanks to the other staff members, Evan and Erica (I think that was her name?). Both staff members were very friendly, but efficient. I was quite pleased with the car I rented- it was in good shape, generally clean inside, and drove well. Dropping the rental car off also went well as Evan graciously (and quickly) drove me to the auto body shop so I could pick-up my car and get to a meeting on time. Thank you for the great service! I will keep this Hertz office in mind next time I need to rent a car in the area!

1 out of 1

Easirent

4.6

Mediocre

No reviews available

One location in Goleta

Show locations

Locations in Goleta

Santa Barbara Municipal Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Budget

No score available yet

One location in Goleta

Show locations

Locations in Goleta

500 Fowler Road

+1 805 964 6792

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 18:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Feb 2024

KAYAK
Super friendly and professional service. Clean nice car.

2.0 Poor

Nov 2023

KAYAK
At first, it said it would take $75, but actually it takes $240 without our faults.

6.0 Okay

Oct 2023

KAYAK
Pickup was poor. No one available in car lot to help find car. Car was not where counter staff told us it was. Counter staff were not rude but not friendly or helpful with questions about car. Tried to reach office during rental period and was impossible. Dropoff was the same. No one in the lot. Counter staff not friendly or rude, Great car and poor service.

4.0 Mediocre

Oct 2023

KAYAK
personnel were not helpful…deposit was huge and still not returned after 3 days. Return location and service at the airport was poor.

6.0 Okay

Oct 2023

KAYAK
like that spouse can also drive… did not like the disorganized return process, dirty banged-up Nissan pickup truck (it was that or an EV) in lieu of an actual car

2.0 Poor

Sep 2022

KAYAK
Didn’t honor the reservation from a 3rd party. Terrible customer service

1 out of 24

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

No score available yet

2 locations in Goleta

Show locations

Locations in Goleta

500 James Fowler Rd

+1 805 683 3012

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 18:00

5959 Hollister Ave

+1 805 683 0067

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

Filters

Reviews

4.0 Mediocre

Oct 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff was able to point me in the right direction after they recognized their mistake.

9.6 Wonderful

Aug 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Gentleman who helped me was professional, courteous and efficient.

Cons:

Only thing that was a VERY MINOR problem was my lack of knowledge that the button to open gas tank cover was located on the car door (had not encountered this in other vehicles).

2.0 Poor

Jul 2019

KAYAK

Cons:

Staff was not friendly and they did not have a car for us when we arrived.

2.0 Poor

Apr 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Enterprise did not honor my reservation. They make me another reservation under enterprise website and charged me a lot more

Cons:

Enterprise should not be part of the website or part of the business provided. Terrible company and customer service. Mean managers st chapala st office in Santa Barbara. The agent helping me was great and very kind and helpful. Manager didn’t give a dam abt customers.

10.0 Wonderful

Mar 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Friendly, quick

2.0 Poor

Jan 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Counter accessibility

Cons:

Lack of helpfulness. Didn't honor our pre-booked rental.

1 out of 7

Alamo

No score available yet

One location in Goleta

Show locations

Locations in Goleta

500 James Fowler Rd

+1 805 692 0939

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 18:00

Filters

Reviews

8.0 Very good

May 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The woman who helped me with drop off was incredibly helpful

2.0 Poor

May 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

They did not have my car available and said they tried to call me, but I never got a call. I needed a 12 person van, so it was not easy to find another one. Thankfully AVIS helped me out at the last minute!

2.0 Poor

Dec 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

Vehicle that I reserved was not available when I went go pick up.

10.0 Wonderful

Nov 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

I liked the small airport with car pick up right outside the terminal. Very convenient, quick, and simple. Would probably choose a slightly larger car than a Toyota Corolla for four adults.

9.6 Wonderful

Aug 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was friendly and efficient

Cons:

Car was a little dirty inside.

9.6 Wonderful

Jun 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Easy, fast, and safe.

1 out of 10

National

No score available yet

One location in Goleta

Show locations

Locations in Goleta

500 James Fowler Rd

+1 805 692 0939

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 18:00

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Nov 2021

KAYAK
I booked for 160 dls and my receipt was for more than 200 dls

1 out of 1

AutoEurope

No score available yet

One location in Goleta

Show locations

Locations in Goleta

Santa Barbara Municipal Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

VIPCars Recommendation

No score available yet

One location in Goleta

Show locations

Locations in Goleta

500 Fowler Rd, Goleta, , USA California

+1 914 368 0091

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 18:00

Filters

No reviews available

349 travelers who rented a car in Goleta gave the car agency they used an average rating of 5.7

Car rental locations in or near Goleta

Good to know

Most popular agency

Hertz

Most popular car type

Intermediate

Average price

$49/day

Good deal

$41/day

When to book a rental car in Goleta

Average daily price per month
Rental car prices as pick-up date approaches