This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 48 hours by searching for a car rental in New Orleans with a pick-up date of 7/1 and drop-off date of 7/14. 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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KAYAK’s insights & trends for New Orleans car rentals
Check out the latest trends and booking tips to rent a car in New Orleans with confidence.
How far in advance should you book a rental car in New Orleans?
You should book your rental car in New Orleans around 7 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.
What is the cheapest car rental company in New Orleans?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Priceless ($25.92/day), Dollar ($26.35/day) and Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($30.83/day). The cheapest rental car price was found at Priceless, 2070 Poydras Street (1.0 mi from city center).
What is the most popular rental car in New Orleans?
Rentals in the SUV category (Ford Expedition or similar) are the most popular option in New Orleans, costing $92/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as $73/day.
What is the cheapest month to rent a car in New Orleans?
The cheapest month to rent a car in New Orleans is January at an average cost of $46/day. May is the most expensive month to rent a car in New Orleans when prices are $62/day on average, which tends to be 12% above the yearly average rental price for New Orleans.
What rental car company in New Orleans has the most locations?
Avis and Ace each operate 4 locations in New Orleans, more than any other rental company.
New Orleans car rental price comparison by vehicle type
Find the right rental car in New Orleans by comparing prices across vehicle types.
Small
Medium
Large
SUV
Van
Pickup truck
Luxury
Convertible
Small cars
$34 - $51
All Car Types
$62 - $80
How much does it cost to rent a small car in New Orleans?
How much does it cost to rent a medium car in New Orleans?
How much does it cost to rent a large car in New Orleans?
How much does it cost to rent an SUV in New Orleans?
How much does it cost to rent a van in New Orleans?
How much does it cost to rent a pickup truck in New Orleans?
How much does it cost to rent a luxury car in New Orleans?
How much does it cost to rent a convertible in New Orleans?
Small car rentals in New Orleans typically cost around $42 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $34 per day which is about 20% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 42% cheaper than the average rental in New Orleans, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Medium car rentals in New Orleans typically cost around $62 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $55 per day which is about 12% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 14% cheaper than the average rental in New Orleans, offering a good balance of space and value.
Large car rentals in New Orleans typically cost around $68 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $58 per day which is about 15% less than the yearly average. Large cars can be 6% cheaper than the average rental in New Orleans, offering more comfort for longer trips at a valuable price.
SUV rentals in New Orleans typically cost around $72 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $61 per day which is about 16% less than the yearly average. SUVs are usually the same price as an average rental in New Orleans.
Van rentals in New Orleans typically cost around $109 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $83 per day which is about 24% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 34% more expensive than the average rental in New Orleans, but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.
Pickup truck rentals in New Orleans typically cost around $63 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $42 per day which is about 34% less than the yearly average. Pickup trucks are 13% cheaper than the average rental in New Orleans, a practical choice for hauling gear or outdoor adventures.
Luxury car rentals in New Orleans typically cost around $93 per day. The best time to book is September, when prices average $78 per day which is about 17% less than the yearly average. Luxury cars are typically 23% more expensive than the average rental in New Orleans, but deliver premium comfort and style for special occasions.
Convertible rentals in New Orleans typically cost around $104 per day. The best time to book is May, when prices average $82 per day which is about 22% less than the yearly average. Convertibles are typically 31% more expensive than the average rental in New Orleans, perfect for scenic drives and warm-weather destinations.
Good to know
Most popular agency
Most popular car type
Average price
Good deal
Priceless
Medium
$46/day
$40/day
New Orleans car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users
Insights shared by verified travelers who rented a car in New Orleans
Make sure you have your Reservation number, insurance information, and Major credit card ready for real quick service. They are the best and quickest to get you out.
JohnMay 2025
Use the Hertz app to check in. All you’ll have to do at the airport is pickup the waiting car
Verified travelerApr 2025
Plan ahead. We had a change in plans and some rental companies were not sending any cars to certain states, saying they had sent enough to one state or another already. Realize that you do not have to use the airport rental counters. You may be lucky enough to get a car near the Quarter, if that is where you are staying.
Verified travelerJul 2024
Check yourself in and complete all the needed info before to are standing in front of the customer service rep. When you do this you will not hold up other customer trying to get the rentals also.
Verified travelerMar 2024
Give yourself extra time in your day. Don’t book a car and give yourself zero time for delays. Book in advance and don’t count on just showing up and then having cars.
NatashaJan 2024
Nifty Car Rental is a local company that has great prices and treats you like an old friend. Can’t recommend them enough. They came and picked me up from the Budget office when Budget didn’t have cars.
Verified travelerJan 2024
Keep calling the location to ensure you will have a vehicle so you won't be frustrated trying find something at the last minute.
N.Feb 2024
Cautious, defensive driving is recommended.
Verified travelerOct 2023
Book directly through the rental company, not a third party.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Google Map is very useful and use public parking. It’s a bit costly but convenient and safe
Verified travelerAug 2023
make sure you check and double check your pick up and drop off locations.
Verified travelerAug 2023
Avoid having to drop the car off on a Sunday.
DavidAug 2023
Stick with the major brands.
Verified travelerMay 2023
Have gas cars as an option
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in New Orleans
New Orleans is a cultural melting pot of diverse heritage, world-renowned music, exceptional nightlife, and culinary options. Renting a car will help you maximize your time in New Orleans; whether you aim to explore the varied wetlands that the surrounding lakes and Mississippi River have to offer, or would prefer to discover secrets spread across the downtown metropolis, renting a car is the best option. Aside from checking out the distinctive Creole-styled architecture in the French Quarter, ensure you venture across Lake Pontchartrain and witness the isolated beauty of Fontainebleau State Park and Mandeville.
The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is located approximately 4.5 miles from the downtown area and you can expect to complete the drive in about 25 minutes. Major rental companies such as Enterprise, Budget, Hertz, and Dollar have a range of rental options to suit you; you can use KAYAK to find the best deal. Once you have collected your luggage, proceed towards the exit and take a right turn under the sheltered walkway towards the Car Rental Facility to pick up your keys.
Streetcars, commonly referred to as trams in other parts of the world, are present in the center of town and you must be careful while driving to provide the right of way and ensure you do not stop on the tracks. While drinking alcohol on the street is uniquely legal in New Orleans, having an open alcoholic container in your car while driving is not. Right-hand turns on a red light are legal in New Orleans unless otherwise indicated.
Like most major cities, New Orleans experiences rush hour delays at peak commuting periods of the work week. It is advisable to plan around the rush hour between 7:30 am and 9:30 am, as well as 4 pm and 7 pm. People come to New Orleans from all across the world to celebrate events such as Mardi Gras and the Jazz & Heritage Festival. During these festivities, traffic is particularly affected close to the French Quarter so, if you are in the city during this period, allow some extra time to reach your destination.
A Rental Car Lot Shuttle is available at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) to take you to the rental car center. Hertz, Alamo, and Avis have rental desks at the airport. From the arrivals area, take the terminal exit at the baggage claim area on Level 1. Walk to the Long Term Parking Garage, just next to the terminal, which is the pick-up point for the shuttle. The shuttle services to and from the rental car center run every 5 minutes and operate 24/7. The ride from the pick-up point to the car rental center is approximately 20 minutes. After the expiry of your rental, the shuttle will also provide you with transport from the car rental center to the airport in time for your return flight.
Aggressive and distracted driving is strictly prohibited in New Orleans. The law enforces fines on anyone texting or making calls while driving. Roads in New Orleans are notorious for streetcars. Drivers should yield to streetcars and avoid pausing on the tracts when a streetcar is at an intersection. Also, yield to vehicles like ambulances and law enforcement while driving. New Orleans also has several one-way roads, so be extra vigilant while driving on these roads. Only drive on the right-hand roadway on any New Orleans highways split into two roadways by a median.
Roads in New Orleans are particularly congested during summer since people want to enjoy the off-season feel without the many events and festivals. The congestion is made worse by people traveling through New Orleans, getting to and from the east and west coast. The most congested road to avoid while driving in New Orleans is I-10, which stretches through the city from coast to coast. Other hotspots for congestion include Louisa Street, Westbank Expressway, Orleans Avenue, South Rampart Street, Lasalle Street, Pauger Street, and South Derbigny Street.
25% of our users found rental cars in New Orleans for $40 or less
Medium rental cars in New Orleans are around 33% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in New Orleans
What type of car is recommended for driving in New Orleans?
There are plenty of winding, narrow, or dead-end streets throughout New Orleans, thanks to the town shaping around the Mississippi River. That’s why it is best to rent an intermediate sedan to suit. Use KAYAK to view the best deals across all rental companies and think about renting something similar to a Kia Soul or Hyundai Elantra.
What’s the speed limit in New Orleans?
The speed limit in the residential and commercial area of New Orleans can vary from 20 mph up to 45 mph, so be careful to check the indicated signage. On freeways that are close to urban areas, the speed limit can be as low as 50 mph, while in more rural areas you can increase your speed to 70 mph.
Where are the best places to park in New Orleans?
Commercially operated parking garages are the best option for secure parking in the downtown district. At Clarke Garage and Commerce Garage, both located on Gravier Street on the outskirts of the French Quarter, you can expect to pay approximately $10 to $15 for all-day weekend parking. Leave your car here for the day and explore the downtown district conveniently on foot.
How much does it cost to rent a car in New Orleans?
On average a rental car in New Orleans costs $46 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 New Orleans found in the last 2 weeks is $38.
Which car rental companies are at Louis Armstrong airport (MSY)?
The only car rental company onsite at Louis Armstrong airport is Econorent.
Which car rental companies will pick you up at Louis Armstrong airport (MSY)?
Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Louis Armstrong airport to off-airport locations include Alamo, and National.
How can I find car rentals near me in New Orleans?
How much does a Medium car rental cost in New Orleans?
A Medium car rental in New Orleans costs $64 per day, on average.
How much does a Special car rental cost in New Orleans?
A Special car rental in New Orleans costs $66 per day, on average.
How much does a Large car rental cost in New Orleans?
A Large car rental in New Orleans costs $65 per day, on average.
What is the most popular rental car location in New Orleans?
In New Orleans, cars are most frequently rented at Sixt 601 Loyola Ave (1 miles from city center).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in New Orleans?
Most car rental providers in New Orleans offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in New Orleans, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in New Orleans?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 14 car rental agencies in New Orleans.
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in New Orleans?
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 New Orleans?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in New Orleans so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
Are there toll roads in New Orleans?
Cheap car rentals in New Orleans will incur tolls on the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, composed of two bridges. These tolls are paid on the Causeway’s North Shore. Toll payments for New Orleans car rentals are either electronical or cash.
What is the best place to rent a car in New Orleans?
Cheap car rentals in New Orleans are available at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and downtown New Orleans at affordable rates. Enterprise and budget both have rental offices along Canal Street. Since MSY is the main entry point, car hire companies at MSY operate from early morning till midnight, so you can conveniently pick up your rental when you arrive.
Good customer service. Car was a little late but there’s only so much they can do when cars show up late.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jan 2024
Intermediate SUV
The staff were fantastic and helpful. The car was clean and in excellent condition
2.0 Poor
Natasha, Jan 2024
Compact
Despite having a reservation they didn’t actually have any cars. The wait for a car was an hour and half and the seating area was full of people waiting for cars. I had a scheduled tour so I had to call another company for a car. Not sure what is going on but Budget needs to figure things out.
2.0 Poor
Mona, Oct 2023
Full-size
One of the clerks were very rude. My pickup time was supposed to be noon. I waited until almost 2:00.
The customer service rep at Hertz was lovely, very polite and great service your website (kayak) allowed me to book a vehicle but after walking a few blocks with my luggage to fins out that Hertz can't accommodate because they dont have enough vehicles to do a same day reservation so we then had to walk around the area trying to find a different car rental So experience was not very good, based on this experience would not recommend Kayak
10.0 Wonderful
Michael, Dec 2025
Pickup truck
THE CUSTOMER SERVICE WAS THE BEST. SHARITA TOOK GOOD CARE OF ME AND MY NEEDS. THE BEST SELECTION OF CARS AROUND. THEY ALWAYS GO ABOVE AND BEYOND TO MAKE SURE I'M HAPPY AND SATISFIED WITH MY EXPERIENCE.
2.0 Poor
Elizabeth, Nov 2025
Compact SUV
There were no cars even though multiple people had reservations. The men staffing had no other options to offer, help, or information. People were stranded or had to pay higher prices at other companies if they wanted a car. Don’t book with Hertz, they don’t honor reservations.
10.0 Wonderful
Bonita, Aug 2025
Supplier choice
Trian the mgr wss very patient and managed a very stressful situation professionally.
10.0 Wonderful
John, May 2025
Compact SUV
Very easy pick up and drop off— brand new car, perfect experience.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Apr 2025
Intermediate SUV
We used their “skip the line” feature, which led to us waiting in three lines. The first person we encountered refused to even look our reservation up, sending us to another counter. That counter sent us back to the first counter. While we waited in the third line we listened as the associate gave away the cars randomly, telling folks to pick anything they wanted in spots 1-20. Oddly those slots held everything from compacts to SUVs, which do not rent for the same rates. We ended up with the last small SUV, even though we paid for a mid sized SUV. No apology for the poor service either. Sad.
Arrived for 9am reservation made weeks ago and they had no cars available. The employee was rude and said it would be 30 minutes to an hour. 2 hours later they had a car but not the size I reserved. Horribly experience.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Oct 2024
Intermediate
Car not available at pick-up. Waitlist and then needed to follow up via phone multiple times to see if car gets available.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jan 2024
Passenger van
I reserved a 13 passenger van a December 7, 3034to be picked Jan 7, 2024. Only to receive a text message Jan 7, 2024, at 7:44 am that the system was overbooked and couldn't accommodate my reservation. I called Avis customer service number was told they had the vehicle at the airport location. I got to the airport only to be told they didn't have a 13 passenger van. Why have a system that you can't keep track of amount of reservation vehicles and locations.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Dec 2023
Intermediate
We could not pick up any car. They said they didn’t have any car available for days. So, why did Kayak send me a confirmation email?
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Dec 2023
Intermediate SUV
I had problem with my card as it was an international credit card there where problem with the charge. The customer service agent at pickup was not very Professional. When i deliverd the car the agent helping me told me that they had a new card terminal and that she was awere of the problem with international cards. the agent giving me service whaen pickup was not professional.
They didn’t have the car we have rent and they do not have us any additional opcion appart from waiting until they have one available. After almost 2hours, I got they gave me another van which was bigger than what I needed and I wanted. they offered no compensation for the inconvenience!!!
10.0 Wonderful
Nada, May 2025
Intermediate SUV
Verry good service
6.0 Okay
Stacye, Dec 2024
Supplier choice
Enterprise was fine. I didn't get a car. I cancelled the reservation bc I was going to use the car for driving for Uber. When I inquired about it, I found out that I could not do that. They were very accommodating about it. But the insurance company charged $126 for a full week of insurance. I cancelled with Enterprise and Kayak. (Who I thought sold me the insurance). When the money was charged to my account, I immediately contacted them to let them know that I had cancelled. So far the response I have gotten is insurance co. tells me to contact Kayak and Kayak tells me to contact insurance co. for a refund. So far haven't received any money back. So can you please let me know why I e been charged for something I didn't utilize and had cancelled prior to needing it. Thank you, Stacye Stone
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Feb 2024
Minivan
Billed more than said. Vehicle possible problems. No tow although told many times coming. No vehicle to exchange for although told so. Then we were held up for hours due to the rental not going to let my son drive it out again cuz no other vehicle. This whole process cost us more money and hours of our vacation time. Terrible experience.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Nov 2023
Economy
They didn’t have car for me. Even after I’d booked one online and paid for insurance.
I rented a SUV for pickup the same morning of rental. When i arrived for my pickup the Dollar rep wasn’t pleased i went through kayak and told me there was a 4 hr wait time after rental was booked. She said I shouldn’t use kayak. She said I wasn’t going to get a suv and i could go wait and come back. This delayed my travel. I kept staying near the counter and was staying nice to the agent. It was not busy and she finally motioned for me to return to counter. she said i can give you a kia but your not getting an suv and the price will not come down so what do you want to do? I had no option but to take the kia car and make do. I am very unhappy w the service of the dollar rep and the vehicle i was forced to take. It is not a positive experience when the rep downplays me using kayak as my rental platform either. David Hewitt
2.0 Poor
J, Apr 2026
Intermediate SUV
I paid extra for a hybrid only to be told they don’t carry them & couldn’t make an adjustment to my reservation for the difference. My wife left her sunglasses case in the door upon checkout. We’ve called & opened a ticket but not a single response.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Nov 2025
Intermediate
The price was a little high, but the service was great.
2.0 Poor
Ariana, Mar 2025
Supplier choice
This rental location is a complete disaster. It is a hertz office and they have NO idea what they are doing. Booked the reservation, called to confirm they had a car, arrived to pick up and just like the previous time I attempted to rent from this location, NO CAR. Had to pitch a fit to finally get them to honor a reservation. Two people on calls with customer service in the waiting area to address their concerns. It is a joke. I make every effort to rent from Enterprise when I need a local rental and try to avoid this location at all costs.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Feb 2025
Passenger van
We didn’t get a vehicle because they didn’t have a van for us after they had sent emails saying our rental was ready for us. Waited 2 hrs and got stories about the van needing to be cleaned. Finally admitted they didn’t have a van. A waste of time.
2.0 Poor
Micaela, Dec 2024
Standard SUV
Got to the counter for pickup and they were out of cars. Didn’t do anything to help, said we would need to contact customer service. Ended up giving us a lower-category car hours later with no refund (paid for an SUV, got a small car). Terrible experience on thanksgiving day with a 4 month old baby and 2 seniors.
Slow. Despite accepting the booking didn't have the booked car. Then didn't have an alternate ready even though pick up time was on booking, then didn't have a clean car. Overall, it was not a great experience.
No car available upon arrival . I was told it would be at least a 2 hour wait. I had an event to be at so I had to get a vehicle from another company.
2.0 Poor
Chelsea, Mar 2025
Full-size
Made a reservation. Went the next day to pick up the car after adding additional items that morning (insurance and gas pre-paid) only to arrive at the counter to be told they would not honor the reservation.
4.0 Mediocre
Anonymous, Oct 2024
Full-size SUV
Thought customer service poor. Unable to get vehicle . Kia Sorento small for 7 people and luggage. Unable to upgrade with paying 45 more per day, no vehicles. Pathfinder not there or minivan. Charge for Expedition 75 a day more. Too expensive. Was charged for extra driver 13.99 a day. Showed rental coverage policy saying no charge. Still charged extra. Not pleased with service. Told no vehicles in to accommodate us. Had seniors . Sent to 3rd floor and slot to pick up car. Had to find someone to help us there. Luggage space small with 3rd row up even with carry on. Basically put luggage between seats. Uncomfortable ride to travel 2.5 hours from airport. Very disappointed
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jul 2024
Intermediate SUV
Self checking in. The rental process was swift since I self check myself. Interaction with an agent last only 15 minutes. I was frustrated with the air line for the twice delayed then canceled but Thrifty got me on the road quickly!
2.0 Poor
Dan, Apr 2024
Full-size
Waited at counter for one and half hours for car. They forgot about me
I didn’t have a very good experience with Ace. They cars Are very old and apparently are being used for personal vehicles by one of the employees. I brought my vehicle back, gassed up and timely on Thursday, June 13. This is the morning of Friday, June 14. I still don’t have the rental agreement and I still don’t have my $400 deposit back. Which is causing me to miss my flight this morning to Washington DC, that $400 was a part of my expense account and as a result of not having it back, (because they did not process the paperwork timely) I’m in trouble with my job. Needless to say, I’m not very happy with Ace car rental.😩
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, May 2024
Economy
We are very desappointed because we did not pay the price we booked (about +50%) because there were lots of additionnal charges like the mandotory assurance (we didn’t know we needed to proove that we had a personnal assurance, if so, we should asked a proof to our insurrance to avoid the additionnal charges), a deposit of 2000$ and we were charged because we paid it by card, the car was old with lots of miles and they told us we were not allowed to drive 200miles away from New Orleans. Hopefully our trip was next New Orleans, but if you want to make a road trip it’s a problem. The last, but not least you can read on the door office that the price can change depending on the customer ! I really don’t recommand this Rental.
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