Ames car rentals from $50/day

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 Ames with a pick-up date of 9/19 and drop-off date of 9/26. 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 Ames

Mitsubishi Mirage car
Mitsubishi Mirage
or similar Small
2
2
4-5
$50/day
View Deal
Hyundai Kona car
Hyundai Kona
or similar Small
4
2
2/4
$55/day
View Deal
Toyota Corolla car
Toyota Corolla
or similar Medium
5
3
2/4
$71/day
View Deal
Volkswagen Jetta car
Volkswagen Jetta
or similar Medium
5
3
2/4
$51/day
View Deal
Chevrolet Malibu car
Chevrolet Malibu
or similar Large
5
2
4-5
$75/day
View Deal
Chrysler Pacifica car
Chrysler Pacifica
or similar Van
5
5
4-5
$82/day
View Deal
Mazda CX-90 car
Mazda CX-90
or similar SUV
5
2
4-5
$130/day
View Deal
Nissan Maxima car
Nissan Maxima
or similar Luxury
5
5
2/4
$83/day
View Deal
Audi A4 car
Audi A4
or similar Luxury
5
5
4-5
$83/day
View Deal
Nissan Rogue car
Nissan Rogue
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$69/day
View Deal
Nissan Pathfinder car
Nissan Pathfinder
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$80/day
View Deal
Booking Insights

KAYAK’s insights & trends for Ames car rentals

Check out the latest trends and booking tips to rent a car in Ames with confidence.

How far in advance should you book a rental car in Ames?

You should book your rental car in Ames around 29 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.

What is the most popular rental car in Ames?

Rentals in the SUV category (Chevrolet Equinox or similar) are the most popular option in Ames, costing $85/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as $70/day.

What is the cheapest month to rent a car in Ames?

The cheapest month to rent a car in Ames is November at an average cost of $51/day. August is the most expensive month to rent a car in Ames when prices are $81/day on average, which tends to be 20% above the yearly average rental price for Ames.

What rental car company in Ames has the most locations?

Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates 3 locations in Ames, more than any other rental company.

Find deals

Ames car rental price comparison by vehicle type

Find the right rental car in Ames by comparing prices across vehicle types.

Small cars

$47 - $87

All Car Types

$62 - $105

How much does it cost to rent a small car in Ames?

How much does it cost to rent a medium car in Ames?

How much does it cost to rent a large car in Ames?

How much does it cost to rent an SUV in Ames?

How much does it cost to rent a van in Ames?

How much does it cost to rent a pickup truck in Ames?

Small car rentals in Ames typically cost around $65 per day. The best time to book is November, when prices average $47 per day which is about 28% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 20% cheaper than the average rental in Ames, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Medium car rentals in Ames typically cost around $74 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average $58 per day which is about 22% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 9% cheaper than the average rental in Ames, offering a good balance of space and value.

Large car rentals in Ames typically cost around $66 per day. The best time to book is March, when prices average $52 per day which is about 22% less than the yearly average. Large cars can be 19% cheaper than the average rental in Ames, offering more comfort for longer trips at a valuable price.

SUV rentals in Ames typically cost around $67 per day. The best time to book is November, when prices average $42 per day which is about 38% less than the yearly average. SUVs can be 18% cheaper than the average rental in Ames, providing extra space and capability for groups or road trips at a reasonable price.

Van rentals in Ames typically cost around $133 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $55 per day which is about 59% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 40% more expensive than the average rental in Ames, but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.

Pickup truck rentals in Ames typically cost around $84 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average $50 per day which is about 41% less than the yearly average. Pickup trucks are typically 4% more expensive than the average rental in Ames, ideal for hauling gear or outdoor adventures.

Good to know

Most popular agency

Most popular car type

Average price

Good deal

Turo
Medium
$86/day
$72/day

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Ames

  • Renting a car from a car rental in Ames is a wise idea if you want to explore the city actively. This is because, with a rental car, you can travel from one attraction to another without relying on the city's slow bus travel. Within Ames, some of the attractions you can easily get to include Reiman Gardens, a botanical garden, and a butterfly pavilion; Brunnier Art Museum, a decorative art museum at a campus auditorium; Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake, a well-maintained park suitable for fishing; and Veenker Memorial Golf Course, a top-notch golf course. On the other hand, outside Ames, you can enjoy short road trips to Sakatah Lake State Park, Whitewater State Park, Backbone State Park, and Nelson Dewey State Park.
  • Des Moines Airport (DSM) is the main airport that serves Ames. If you'd like to rent a car once you land at this airport, you're in luck, as it features counters for Ames car rentals such as Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. These car rental agencies are located in the baggage claim area of the airport's mid-size terminal. Thus, you can simply walk to the counter of your preferred car rental.
  • Ames boasts wide roads with proper road signs and demarcated paths for cyclists and pedestrians. However, when driving your car rental in Ames, it's in your best interest to always keep an eye on your surroundings, maintain a low speed, cut out distractions, and stay in line behind a slower car instead of abruptly changing lanes. Adopting the noted defensive driving techniques is quite advisable, given that not all Ames motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians keenly follow the traffic rules.
  • When driving your car rental in Ames, you'll likely not encounter major traffic, as traffic snarl-ups are not common in this city. However, from 7 am to 9 am and 4 pm to 6 pm, the roads heading to and from this city's center usually have slight traffic. Given that the traffic on these roads is slow-moving, if you intend to drive to the city center during these periods, you need not worry about getting stuck in traffic for too long. However, leaving a bit earlier than necessary will accord you adequate time to get to your destination in time. Other than slight traffic, Ames experiences significant snowfall from November to March. If you plan to drive in Ames this season, you should have your rental car equipped with winter tires. As all car rentals in Ames offer winter tires, you won't have to walk from office to office.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in Ames for $72 or less
  • Small rental cars in Ames are around 41% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in Ames

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

    On average a rental car in Ames costs $86 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 Ames found in the last 2 weeks is $86.

  • Which car rental companies are at Des Moines airport (DSM)?

    Car rental companies onsite at Des Moines airport include Payless and Avis.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at Des Moines airport (DSM)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Des Moines airport to off-airport locations include Payless, and Avis.

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

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

  • How much does a Medium car rental cost in Ames?

    A Medium car rental in Ames costs $85 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Luxury car rental cost in Ames?

    A Luxury car rental in Ames costs $115 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Large car rental cost in Ames?

    A Large car rental in Ames costs $138 per day, on average.

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

    In Ames, cars are most frequently rented at Enterprise Rent-A-Car 1817 E Lincoln Way (2 miles from city center).

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

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

  • How many car agencies are operating in Ames?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 2 car rental agencies in Ames.

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

    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 Ames?

    KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Ames 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 Ames?

    In Ames, there are several types of car rentals you can hire. They include economy rentals, luxury rentals, SUVs of various sizes, intermediate rentals, and compact rentals. The car rental in Ames you settle on should be determined by the number of individuals you plan on traveling with. If you intend to travel by yourself or with other companion, you should consider renting an economy rental. On the other hand, if you plan on traveling with four other individuals, you should rent a minivan.

  • What is the speed limit in Ames?

    Different roads in Ames feature different speed limits. If you're on a road in a school zone, a construction zone, or a residential area, you're expected to maintain a speed of 25 mph. On the other hand, if you're on one of the highways leading into and out of the city, you can maintain a speed of up to 65 mph.

  • Where are the best places to park in Ames?

    Finding a spot to park your car rental in Ames is quite easy, given that this city boasts several parking spots. The said parking lots are available at 500 Kellog Avenue, 340 Main Street, 615 5th Street, 526 Main Street, and 617 Douglas Avenue.

Ames car rental reviews and directory

 
All ratings and reviews are collected from KAYAK users with a verified car rental booking. Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

10.0

Wonderful

Cleanliness

10.0

Comfort

10.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

10.0

Value for money

10.0

3 locations in Ames

Locations in Ames

1817 E Lincoln Way

+1 515 233 5200

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday

5460 Merle Hay Rd Ste D

+1 515 331 1000

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday

734 S Ankeny Blvd

+1 515 963 9300

Monday07:30 - 17:00
Tuesday07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday07:30 - 17:00
Thursday07:30 - 17:00
Friday07:30 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jun 2026

Minivan

KAYAK
Everything was top notch. The van I left Enterprise with on Thursday did not have working air conditioning. When I got home I called and asked about getting a replacement. The next day as we set out on our trip we stopped at the Enterprise office. They had another like model, with working a/c all ready for us. All we had to do was switch out bags from one van to the other. Very smooth. The Pacifica had a smooth ride, was a pleasure to drive, and we had plenty of room. Overall, a very positive experience. The staff completely took care of us. I would recommend Enterprise to anyone, and will most certainly come back the next time there is a need. Deacon Rob Claypool St Mary's Eldora Catholic Church

1 out of 1

Dollar

8.3

Very good

One location in Ames

Locations in Ames

121 Southeast Shurfine Drive

+1 515 964 9650

Monday08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 16:00
Thursday08:00 - 16:00
Friday08:00 - 16:00

Filters

No reviews available

Avis

No score available yet

2 locations in Ames

Locations in Ames

5500 Nw Johnston Drive, Ste C

+1 515 393 5453

Monday07:00 - 18:00
Tuesday07:00 - 18:00
Wednesday07:00 - 18:00
Thursday07:00 - 18:00
Friday07:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 13:00
Sunday10:00 - 14:00

637 S Ankeny Blvd

+1 515 207 5404

Monday07:00 - 18:00
Tuesday07:00 - 18:00
Wednesday07:00 - 18:00
Thursday07:00 - 18:00
Friday07:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 13:00
Sunday10:00 - 14:00

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jun 2024

Pickup truck

KAYAK
They did not have the rental type that reserved online. Said they hadn’t had one in years.

1 out of 1

Hertz

No score available yet

2 locations in Ames

Locations in Ames

121 Southeast Shurfine Drive

+1 515 964 9650

Monday08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 16:00
Thursday08:00 - 16:00
Friday08:00 - 16:00

711 E Lincoln Way

Opening times not available

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Feb 2024

Compact

KAYAK
My experience was fantastic & I will be renting from hertz only the next time I need a rental but the real credit goes to Jon & the other young man who made this decision the best ever this world needs more workers who generally care about the customer & not just making a quick buck !

1 out of 1

Budget

No score available yet

One location in Ames

Locations in Ames

637 S Ankeny Blvd

+1 515 207 6050

Monday07:00 - 18:00
Tuesday07:00 - 18:00
Wednesday07:00 - 18:00
Thursday07:00 - 18:00
Friday07:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 13:00
Sunday10:00 - 14:00

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jun 2024

Economy

KAYAK
Egregious.

1 out of 1

Thrifty

No score available yet

One location in Ames

Locations in Ames

121 Southeast Shurfine Drive

+1 515 964 9650

Monday08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 16:00
Thursday08:00 - 16:00
Friday08:00 - 16:00

Filters

No reviews available

One traveler who rented a car in Ames gave the car agency they used an average rating of 8.4

Car rental locations in or near Ames

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Everything you need to know for your car rental in Ames

Ames car rental information

Pick-up locationAmes
Car typesSmall, Medium, SUV, Large, Van, Luxury
Rental locations2
Airport locations0
Popular agenciesEnterprise Rent-A-Car