Knoxville car rentals from $31/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 Knoxville with a pick-up date of 5/13 and drop-off date of 6/13. 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.
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Cheap car rentals in Knoxville

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates.
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Economy$32/day
Compact$33/day
Intermediate$32/day
Minivan$40/day
Full-size SUV$49/day
Premium$32/day
Luxury$50/day
Pickup truck$31/day
Premium SUV$51/day
Intermediate SUV$38/day
Standard SUV$44/day
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Knoxville

  • Those touring Knoxville can enjoy the flexibility that comes with having car rentals to explore all the city’s major attraction sites. Some popular attractions in Knoxville are Ijams Nature Center, Zoo Knoxville, Neyland Stadium, and House Mountain State Natural Area, among many others. Having an affordable rental car from Knoxville, you can get to any of these sites within mins. For instance, it will take you approximately 20 mins from Downtown Knoxville to House Mountain State Natural Area, about 17 miles away. So make use of the freedom of having your rental vehicle to tour and discover the scenic sites around the city.
  • If you are visiting Knoxville on a budget, consider getting an economy vehicle from some renowned car rental companies such as Budget and Avis. As a result, you’ll spend less on renting a car and enjoy visiting all your intended destinations quickly and efficiently. Furthermore, economy vehicles consume less fuel than other options like SUVs and luxury vehicles. So, if you intend to cruise all day long, you’ll not have to dig deep into your pockets and spend too much on fuel. Instead, you’ll enjoy your rented car as you save some coins for other uses.
  • Knoxville city often has rush hour traffic between 4.00 pm and 6.30 pm as people rush from work to get home. In this case, avoid staying on the main highways during work commute hours as you will find yourself stuck in traffic. Additionally, if you must drive during this time, consider using your satellite navigation system, such as GPS, to guide you through roads with minimal or no traffic. However, the city’s traffic, especially in the morning, is not always dense, and you can always navigate the area without a hassle.
  • There is much to explore in and around Knoxville, so why not make the most out of your holiday and rent a car to gain the most flexibility? It will not only be easier to whizz through the city of Knoxville and visit the zoo, the Memorial Park, or the local golf club, but travelers also get the opportunity to venture out and discover the hidden secrets of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, for instance, which is just under an hour away.
  • McGhee Tyson Airport is about 14 miles from Knoxville center, and the easiest way is to rent a car directly from their on-site agencies, including Hertz, Avis, or Alamo. This way you can start your time in Knoxville hassle-free and will be in the heart of the city in less than half an hour via the US-129 N.
  • Whoever is visiting Knoxville in the winter time should be prepared to drive on ice, as snow is a regular companion of the cold months here. Ensure the rental car has winter tires on and adjust your speed, as snow and rain can turn the streets into icy slides. Sudden braking or accelerating should also be avoided; but with the proper preparation, even the winter in Knoxville is nothing to worry about.
  • Even though the city is not as clogged up as other major US cities, rush hour can still mean congested roads, and it is advised to avoid driving through the city between 8-9am and 4-6pm. Especially the interstates 40 and 640 can be congested during peak times and should be avoided if possible.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in Knoxville for $57 or less
  • Book your rental car in Knoxville at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Off-airport rental car locations in Knoxville are around 4% more expensive than airport locations on average
  • Mini rental cars in Knoxville are around -19% cheaper than other car types, on average

Knoxville car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users

Insights shared by verified travelers who rented a car in Knoxville 
Verified travelerOct 2023
Do not let them rush you on look over. Look at vehicle outside and make them look with you on inside under seats if you renting a large vehicle..
Verified travelerNov 2023
Driving in Knoxville... If you've lived in Atlanta and drove into the city every day, you can drive in Knoxville.
Verified travelerSep 2023
Get a drop box for the keys at this location.
ErinJul 2023
We discovered that it was cheaper to rent a car for a month than 3 weeks. Do show up with some flexibility regarding the cars that are available.

FAQs about renting a car in Knoxville

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

    When visiting in the winter, a 4-wheel-drive car is a wise choice to make to ensure maximal road grip and a smoother driving experience. An SUV or a minivan provide a good deal of space for luggage or families, are good for driving even in bad weather, and are not too bulky to navigate through the city.

  • What’s the speed limit in Knoxville?

    Speed limits are posted on the right-hand side of the road. If no clearly posted sign is visible, the general regulations permit 30 mph in residential areas, 55 mph on two-lane roads, and up to 70 mph on interstates and freeways. Always adjust your speed to the prevailing weather and road conditions.

  • Where are the best places to park in Knoxville?

    As in most US cities, on-street parking is metered in Knoxville and is free on Sundays and holidays in most areas -- simply check the designated sign. There are also many parking lots and garages available in downtown and around, such as the Dwight Kessel Garage, which costs around $7 per day, or the Promenade Garage with its daily rate of about $5.

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

    On average a rental car in Knoxville costs $69 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 Knoxville found in the last 2 weeks is $48.

  • What is the cheapest car rental company in Knoxville?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Avis ($31/day) and Budget ($32/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest rental car price was found at Avis 8014 Kingston Pike 37919 (7 miles from city center).

  • What is the best rental car company in Knoxville?

    Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental companies in Knoxville are Hertz (6.5, 118 reviews), and Budget (6.5, 50 reviews).

  • How much is gas price in Knoxville?

    The average gas price in Knoxville is $3.89 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $47 and $62, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular rental car in Knoxville?

    Mini (Chrysler Pacifica or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Knoxville.

  • Which car rental companies are at McGhee Tyson airport (TYS)?

    The only car rental company onsite at McGhee Tyson airport is Hertz.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at McGhee Tyson airport (TYS)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from McGhee Tyson airport to off-airport locations include Budget, Hertz, Alamo, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Avis, Thrifty, Payless, Dollar, and National.

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

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

  • How much does a Mini car rental cost in Knoxville?

    A Mini car rental in Knoxville costs $89 per day, on average.

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

    An Intermediate car rental in Knoxville costs $71 per day, on average.

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

    A Special car rental in Knoxville costs $62 per day, on average.

  • What is the most popular rental car location in Knoxville?

    In Knoxville, cars are most frequently rented at Avis 5535 Clinton Highway (5 miles from city center).

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

    On average a rental car in Knoxville costs $485 per week ($69 per day).

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

    On average a rental car in Knoxville costs $2,080 per month ($69 per day).

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

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

  • How many car agencies are operating in Knoxville?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 4 car rental agencies in Knoxville.

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

    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 Knoxville?

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

  • Which are the best car rental companies in Knoxville?

    When you need to rent a car in Knoxville, pay a visit to Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, or Budget. These are the famous and best-rated rental companies in the city. They offer a wide range of vehicle types for rent, such as luxury, premium, economy, and standard SUVs, among several others. You’ll drive off with a vehicle that suits your budget and needs.

  • What type of car is ideal for driving in Knoxville?

    Knoxville is a well-built city with adequate parking and well0sized roads. Getting an intermediate or standard vehicle is ideal for driving within the city. You’ll find it comfortable driving through the streets and intersections and parking, even in tight spots. SUVs are also recommended if you are looking to do some offroading.

Knoxville car rental reviews and directory

Hertz

Best rated
Cheapest deal

Cleanliness

6.4

Comfort

6.9

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.7

Value for money

6.5

5 locations in Knoxville

Show locations

Locations in Knoxville

201 North Seven Oaks Drive

+1 865 444 3561

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00

2055 Alcoa Highway

+1 865 342 3232

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday07:00 - 23:59
Sunday07:00 - 23:59

525 Henley Street

+1 865 971 3021

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00

540 Frank Gardner

+1 865 444 3561

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00

6285 Clinton Highway

+1 865 219 5240

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Nov 2023

KAYAK
2023 Toyota Camry. Wow! The technology! Great gas mileage. ECO mode, cruising at 62 mph, we were getting 44.9 MPG! The staff both pick up and return (TY2 ?) were fabulous! Only negative, the Camry 24000+/- was soiled. Someone we believe had smoked in the car. The interior windshield was dirty. Dash had been wiped, but not cleaned. Did I tell you we got 44.9 MPG!!! Who cares if the interior windshield was dirty! We'll be back!

2.0 Poor

Dec 2021

KAYAK
We reserved a premium car. None were available (I understand) and we were given a Ford Ecosport. The smallest of SUV's. When we asked for a rate adjustment, they refused. Also the two drivers side tires were extremely low on pressure and missing valve stem caps. It is extremely difficult to find a source for airing up tires. When we returned to Sarasota, the pickup return location was chaotic. No one present to help, we didn't receive a final receipt, and the service overall was extremely poor. I guess the public are at the rental car companies mercy these days. Very disappointing.

6.0 Okay

Dec 2021

KAYAK
Was given a "Supplier's Choice" car which meant the smallest, dirtiest car in their inventory. I can only imagine few people want a Ford Fiesta that was not only tiny but also still dirty. Both the mirrors and side windows were obstructed by what looked like water stains and finger prints. My partner and I were too tired and in a hurry to go back and change the vehicle at the time of pickup but should I ever use Hertz in Knoxville again I will be double checking the vehicle quality and size before driving off. Book "Supplier's Choice" at your own risk. The cost was only slightly reduced at the time of booking for the inconvenience that the vehicle provided.

4.0 Mediocre

Dec 2021

KAYAK
I picked up the car an hour early and was charged an extra $10 for the privilege. Never mind that I asked if it was okay to pick it up an hour early and nothing was said about being charged for an extra hour - or the fact that I returned it 16 hours early - which was also mentioned at the time of pick-up. It's bad enough that rental car prices are extremely high right now, but to gouge the customers even more is pretty crappy. Nice car and - aside from the price gouging - great customer service.

2.0 Poor

Dec 2021

KAYAK
Customer Service was great, although the car I received was questionable. It was a bare-bones vehicle reeking of smoke and of questionable safety. Well over 50,000 miles on it, numerous stains and only one working window. And to top it off, I was charged twice as much as I would have been for a brand new vehicle at the beginning of the year.

10.0 Wonderful

Dec 2021

KAYAK
Friendly staff

1 out of 38

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

7.7

Cleanliness

7.9

Comfort

7.9

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.8

Value for money

7.4

5 locations in Knoxville

Show locations

Locations in Knoxville

4411 Clinton Hwy

+1 865 687 8411

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00
Sunday13:00 - 16:00

530 Summer Pl

+1 865 579 5559

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

6339 Clinton Hwy

+1 865 922 0709

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

8314 Kingston Pike

+1 865 694 8526

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

9616 Parkside Dr

+1 865 690 8448

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00
Sunday13:00 - 16:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Jan 2024

KAYAK
Kienan was great.

8.0 Very good

Sep 2023

KAYAK
I've never been impressed by how clean their cars are, they usually aren't very clean, so it met my expectations, it was OK...

10.0 Wonderful

Apr 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

Night drop to return car

10.0 Wonderful

Jan 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Everyone at this location are very helpful and professional.

Cons:

I would really like it if Enterprise put floor mats back into cars. It is much easier to clean a rubber floor mat than a carpet before returning the rental.

2.0 Poor

Jan 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Not much too like other than car was fairly new.

Cons:

Car was not clean. Had to drive with windows down the entire time due to extreme smoke smell. Trash left in glove box. We were originally scheduled to have an SUV that we booked months ago and location gave it away to another costumer forcing us to either take a mini van or a small car. Location did not inform us that they were closed on Sunday when we were scheduled to drop off either.

10.0 Wonderful

Dec 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

Absolutely perfect , had no issues whatsoever !!!

1 out of 16

Budget

6.5

Most popular

Cleanliness

7.3

Comfort

6.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.7

Value for money

6.7

3 locations in Knoxville

Show locations

Locations in Knoxville

4742 Centerline Drive

+1 865 544 4335

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday10:00 - 13:00

5535 Clinton Highway

+1 865 281 8880

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

8014 Kingston Pike

+1 865 531 2198

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

Reviews

6.0 Okay

Apr 2024

KAYAK
When a tire has a big chunk out of it, don't have your associates say it's ok to drive.

10.0 Wonderful

Feb 2024

KAYAK
The process was quick and easy.

2.0 Poor

Jan 2024

KAYAK
There was several cars in the lot and was told no availability. Kayak services didn't no change my pick up. Regardless if you have cars in the lot but he offered me to pick up one the next day. Want use that budget in the future..

8.0 Very good

Dec 2023

KAYAK
vehicle had a very poor, unusable driver side windshield wiper.

10.0 Wonderful

Oct 2023

KAYAK
I appreciated the helpfulness of the phone representative .

6.0 Okay

Oct 2023

KAYAK
The vehicle was great for 6 people and we had plenty of room for luggage. The men at the Clinton hwy Budge maybe not so much. When I went to pick up the man that walked to go over car with me. Rushed around and when I pointed stuff out he said that fine. The front and mirrors were so nasty they were different color than van. He didn’t even look inside with me. When we get home and start to load let down back seats there was dog hair all under them. The rest of van was clean and vacuumed. . I took pictures we weren’t putting anything under seat so wasn’t that concerned just didn’t wanna get blamed for it. When we returned I told man at counter and he was very rude told me ( Ma’am that isn’t possible) I said yes it is… I tried to show him pictures with time and date on them,He went and looked at van. The only place there was hair was under back seat. He came back in asked me to sign paper and with no apology and told me to have a good day. Get people to work in the office that care about your customers especially if they can prove what they are saying. Don’t discredit people and treat them like they don’t matter. The price and vehicle was great. Customers service not so much.

1 out of 15

Avis

6.2

Cleanliness

6.3

Comfort

6.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.4

Value for money

6.2

3 locations in Knoxville

Show locations

Locations in Knoxville

4742 Centerline Drive

+1 865 544 5815

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday10:00 - 13:00

5535 Clinton Highway

+1 865 687 5722

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

8014 Kingston Pike

+1 865 560 5188

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Aug 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

Excellent value for a luxury SUV! Third summer in a row to rent a luxury SUV from this location and we couldn't be happier!

6.8 Okay

Jul 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

The people at Avis

Cons:

The car was loud and not very comfortable

2.0 Poor

Jun 2016

KAYAK

Pros:

Nothing

Cons:

I reserved a mini van almost two months in advance. I show up at my scheduled pickup time after driving over an hour to get there. The person working the desk tells me they didn't have any mini vans available and they "upgraded" me to a large passenger van. I told him that wasn't acceptable. He told me that's all he had. I told him a phone call would have been nice. He just looked at me like he had no idea what I was talking about. So glad I called early. It was a great way to start our vacation........never again.

9.2 Wonderful

May 2016

KAYAK

Pros:

We put 3000 miles touring the Southern Unites States. I think we filled up with 20.00 dollars each time it cost us very little.

Cons:

When we picked the car up the person did not explain how to drive the car s features. Where's the gas the trunk lock the lights etc. but the worst was the tolls we didn't know what to do on toll roads that bill the plate. We were franticly calling phone numbers for Avis.

2.0 Poor

Jul 2023

KAYAK
Called me 8a before a noon reservation to say they had no cars and they were canceling my reservation. Had to make alternate plans.

2.0 Poor

May 2023

KAYAK
Nothing as after I paid for rental, and was going to go pick up my car andwas told they didn’t have a car for me they were all out.

1 out of 6

361 travelers who rented a car in Knoxville gave the car agency they used an average rating of 6.7

Car rental locations in or near Knoxville

Good to know

Most popular agency

Budget

Most popular car type

Mini

Average price

$69/day

Good deal

$57/day

When to book a rental car in Knoxville

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