Chicago car rentals from $19/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 Chicago with a pick-up date of 2/16 and drop-off date of 2/28. 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 Chicago

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates.
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Chevrolet Spark car
Chevrolet Spark
or similar SMALL
2
2
2/4
$32/day
Nissan Versa car
Nissan Versa
or similar SMALL
4
2
2/4
$28/day
Toyota Corolla car
Toyota Corolla
or similar MEDIUM
5
3
2/4
$21/day
Chrysler Town & Country car
Chrysler Town & Country
or similar VAN
5
5
4-5
$45/day
Ford Explorer car
Ford Explorer
or similar SUV
5
2
4-5
$35/day
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer car
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
or similar LARGE
5
5
2/4
$31/day
Mercedes-Benz C-Class car
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
or similar LUXURY
5
5
4-5
$43/day
Chevrolet Silverado car
Chevrolet Silverado
or similar PICKUPTRUCK
5
3
2/4
$41/day
BMW X1 car
BMW X1
or similar SUV
5
5
4-5
$34/day
Class Special Car car
Class Special Car
or similar Category
5
5
2/4
$19/day
Ford EcoSport car
Ford EcoSport
or similar SUV
4
2
4-5
$20/day
Hyundai Santa Fe car
Hyundai Santa Fe
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$25/day
Toyota RAV4 car
Toyota RAV4
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$33/day
BMW X3 car
BMW X3
or similar SUV
5
5
4-5
$46/day
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

Chicago car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users

Insights shared by verified travelers who rented a car in Chicago 
JudiOct 2024
Check your own car insurance policy before paying for insurance coverage for rental car
Verified travelerOct 2024
Would like to have known about selecting a non-smoking car.
DouglasJul 2024
4 door sedan would be the best bet. Easier to find a parking space , with less blind spots
AdamAug 2024
Make sure your hotel has parking or special rates for nearby street parking. Also, GPS does not work under the el trains in some areas.
Verified travelerApr 2024
Call to make sure the vehicle is there before reserving
PeterFeb 2024
Definitely get the EZ Toll pass (or whatever it’s called); it’s difficult to drive in that area and avoid toll roads.
Verified travelerJan 2024
Easy enough to navigate around the city. Only rented for one day as only need to go to a location where it was cheaper to hire a car than take an Uber. Did not require to park the car overnight as the parking charges are very expensive.
AhmedJan 2024
Watch out for the tolls. Get a good explanation from your car rental rep on the usage and options for tolls.
Verified travelerDec 2023
Be careful driving in the city.
Verified travelerSep 2023
Book with Enterprise if you want to leave at a reasonable time. They had appropriate and prepared staff to deal with the rush of customers.
Verified travelerOct 2023
Seems worth it to get the toll payments included with the rental.
MyronieOct 2023
Sometimes Hertz is all booked out. Alamo is an awesome alternative.
MichaelOct 2023
Plan your routes, there’s a lot of traffic. Parking is a little expensive but there are options. Use it when you have to make Trips outside of the city.
JMOct 2023
All a lot of time to stand in line. Set up an iPass pay by plate account so you only pay for tolls not administrative fees.
Verified travelerOct 2023
Make sure if you park that you get a receipt incase you need to prove your payment later.
Verified travelerSep 2023
Rent from Hertz, or take the train!
rachidAug 2023
Driving in chicago is very simple less crowded than other big cities .while I stayed in oak park you must download the app for oak park overnight pass. Parking is free during daytime but a permit from 2AM to 6AM is required .
Verified travelerJul 2023
Don’t be in a hurry and don’t expect any normal people skills. But the cars are affordable and in great condition.
Verified travelerAug 2023
Set yourself up to pay the tolls online. They are not that expensive and save tons of time!
SteveAug 2023
Use Enterprise for better service. Public transit like the blue line works from Ohare to Loop area.
JoseJun 2023
Avis is the way to go I walked only a few blocks from the Amtrak station
Verified travelerAug 2023
Driving in Chicago is a breeze. Traffic isn’t a standstill like in other cities.
Verified travelerJun 2023
Nothing it was easy and great
Verified travelerAug 2023
Always do your best to drive safely. Keep the vehicle clean, which is how they're going to give it to you. Be sure to return the car on time in the same condition you received it.
Verified travelerJun 2023
Be super careful that you understand how the tolls work for each rental company and ask tons of questions before you leave.
AnneJun 2023
Hertz rental is in the main hallway just before the sign for Hertz in the garage
Verified travelerJul 2023
don't rent a car to stay in Chicago but only when you leave the city
Verified travelerJul 2023
Make absolutely sure if you specify O’Hare that that is where your pickup is!!
CristianJun 2023
Be careful at traffic cameras, there are many.
BrettJun 2023
Be able to drive in traffic
Verified travelerJul 2023
Know where parking is available.
DevinMay 2023
Gas is much cheaper just over the border in Indiana so fill up there before returning the car if you can.
TJMay 2023
Find a rental location that is not the airport. Cuts cost roughly in half.
Jose DanielMay 2023
The car is not in the terminal and a train is needed to get there. So, plan time accordingly to ensure there is enough time to make the flight on time.
Verified travelerMay 2023
I came from Seattle where we keep the posted speed but Chicago nobody follows the posted speed at any time.
Verified travelerMay 2023
Typical for the US. Look a long way forward and a long way back. Google maps seems better than Waze
Verified travelerMay 2023
Expect heavy traffic leaving the airport and throughout chicago.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Chicago

  • While it makes for a seamless transfer to the city center, you’re not limited to finding a cheap car rental in Chicago at the Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), or Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD). Most, if not all, of the major car rental companies represented at the arrival terminals have various off-site locations in and around downtown Chicago. When taking out your car rental contract, you can use the 214 N Clark St as your pick-up and drop-off place with Budget or 10 E Grand, Hilton, Garage FL 2 if renting from Enterprise Rent-A-Car. To be sure, use the KAYAK search aggregator when looking up car rental off-site addresses.
  • Texting or using your cellphone and other electronic devices while operating cheap car rentals in Chicago is against the law in Illinois. While you can use a hands-free enabled device, you can still be charged with distracted driving and risk getting your driving license revoked if it results in an accident. You’re required by law to slow down, stop and give way to all cars on your right, especially emergency service vehicles including pedestrians and cyclists entering a visibly marked crosswalk. According to the Illinois right-of-way laws, failure to yield to ensure the safety of both motorists and pedestrians is punishable by mandatory fines and court assessments.
  • Much like other major cities throughout America, rush hour means there will be a lot of congestion on the roads between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays. Being mindful of the increased amount of cars and cyclists on the road is crucial. Keep in mind that it is legal to turn right on a red light unless otherwise indicated.
  • When driving around Chicago keep in mind that it is a sport-loving city and you'll notice the effect this has on road traffic when the White Sox, Cubs, or Bulls are playing. Wrigley Field, Guaranteed Rate Field, and United Center are all located in close proximity to downtown Chicago, so be vigilant and check whether these teams are playing, and plan an alternative route if necessary to avoid these stadiums during big events.
  • Are you looking to make the most of your time in Chicago? Renting a car from the airport will allow you to be efficient and drive directly to the doorstep of your destination. With a car you'll also have access to the glorious Lake Michigan, the fifth largest lake in the world, with its countless beaches and great fishing opportunities. If you're planning to visit the famous Brookfield Zoo, having a car will save you plenty of time and hassle as it's located 13 miles from downtown Chicago.
  • A shuttle bus takes you directly from any of the terminals at Chicago O’Hare International Airport to the car rental facility, where major rental companies such as Avis, Enterprise, Thrifty, and Budget have counters. O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is located 18 miles from downtown Chicago and the drive takes approximately 30 minutes.
  • For those visiting Illinois and getting ready to get behind the wheel of Chicago car rentals, it is important to know about the seatbelt laws in Illinois before you start driving. The law states that anyone eight years and older must wear a seatbelt in the car, regardless of whether they are in the front or rear seat of the vehicle. Children under the age of eight must be in an appropriate child restraint system.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in Chicago for $26 or less
  • Book your rental car in Chicago at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Supplier choice rental cars in Chicago are around 77% cheaper than other car types, on average
See more tips

FAQs about renting a car in Chicago

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

    A small compact car such as a Mitsubishi Mirage is ideal for Chicago to help navigate rush-hour traffic as well as the narrow streets and street side parking downtown. Opt for a vehicle that allows you to easily check blind spots, especially with the many bike lanes and cyclists on Chicago roads. If you're traveling in a group and plan to explore both the city and the coast, try the comfort and security of a Nissan Rogue SUV.

  • What’s the speed limit in Chicago?

    When driving in the city, 20 mph is usually the permitted speed, but it depends on the area. Mountain highways allow 40 mph, while rural interstates allow up to 65 mph. Always check the speed limit given on the posted signs and adhere to them, especially at intersections where traffic cameras may be installed. In winter, drivers should always adapt their speed to the road conditions and slow down if necessary.

  • Where are the best places to park in Chicago?

    Street parking in downtown Chicago can be tricky and expensive. To avoid unnecessary expenses and inconvenience, consider using parking garages as a more convenient alternative. Alternatively, the Metra train system is expansive and an easy way to travel across the city. Find more accessible parking near a Metra station where you can leave your rental car while you explore downtown using public transport.

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

    On average a rental car in Chicago costs $32 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 Chicago found in the last 2 weeks is $23.

  • What is the cheapest car rental company in Chicago?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Fox ($19/day), Europcar ($21/day) and Thrifty ($28/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest rental car price was found at Fox 10256 W Zemke Blvd 60666 (15 miles from city center).

  • What is the best rental car company in Chicago?

    Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental companies in Chicago are Alamo (7.9, 154 reviews), Enterprise Rent-A-Car (7.4, 164 reviews), and Sixt (6.9, 95 reviews).

  • How much is gas price in Chicago?

    The average gas price in Chicago is $3.97 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $48 and $64, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular rental car in Chicago?

    Supplier choice (Class Special Car or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Chicago.

  • Which car rental companies are at O'Hare Intl airport (ORD)?

    Car rental companies onsite at O'Hare Intl airport include Sixt, Fox, Europcar, Payless, Budget and Hertz.

  • Which car rental companies are at Midway airport (MDW)?

    Car rental companies onsite at Midway airport include Payless, Budget and Hertz.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at O'Hare Intl airport (ORD)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from O'Hare Intl airport to off-airport locations include Routes Car & Truck Rentals, Payless, Budget, and Hertz.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at Midway airport (MDW)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Midway airport to off-airport locations include Rent-A-Wreck, Budget, and Hertz.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at Greater Rockford airport (RFD)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Greater Rockford airport to off-airport locations include Budget, and Hertz.

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

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

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

    A Special car rental in Chicago costs $21 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Standard car rental cost in Chicago?

    A Standard car rental in Chicago costs $25 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Compact car rental cost in Chicago?

    A Compact car rental in Chicago costs $26 per day, on average.

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

    On average a rental car in Chicago costs $223 per week ($32 per day).

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

    On average a rental car in Chicago costs $955 per month ($32 per day).

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

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

  • How many car agencies are operating in Chicago?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 31 car rental agencies in Chicago.

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

    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 Chicago?

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

    Yes, there are several toll roads and bridges. Major Chicago car rental companies such as Enterprise, Alamo, and Avis offer the Toll Pass Waiver Program that allows you to use a transponder device (I-Pass/EZPass) to pay designated express lanes without stopping your vehicle.

  • Are there car rental companies near Union train station?

    Yes. Hertz is located on West Canal Street, Enterprise Rent-A-Car is inside the Presidential Tower by Union Station, and Avis is within walking distance from Union Station on Franklin Street. You can rent an economy, SUV, compact, or luxury vehicle and drive to top attractions such as the Museum of Science and Industry, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Loop the Magnificent Mile Navy Pier.

See more FAQs

Chicago 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.

Alamo

Cleanliness

8.3

Comfort

8.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.8

Value for money

7.7

3 locations in Chicago

Show locations

Locations in Chicago

10255 W Zemke Blvd

+1 833 863 1447

Monday06:00 - 23:00
Tuesday06:00 - 23:00
Wednesday06:00 - 23:00
Thursday06:00 - 23:00
Friday06:00 - 23:00
Saturday06:00 - 23:00
Sunday06:00 - 23:00

203 N La Salle St

+1 800 462 5266

Monday07:00 - 17:00
Tuesday07:00 - 17:00
Wednesday07:00 - 17:00
Thursday07:00 - 17:00
Friday07:00 - 17:00
Saturday07:00 - 17:00
Sunday07:00 - 17:00

5150 W 55th St

+1 844 917 0959

Monday06:00 - 23:00
Tuesday06:00 - 23:00
Wednesday06:00 - 23:00
Thursday06:00 - 23:00
Friday06:00 - 23:00
Saturday06:00 - 23:00
Sunday06:00 - 23:00

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Rafael, Jan 2025

Minivan

KAYAK
Pickup & drop off process was very fast and easy.

10.0 Wonderful

Konstantine, Jul 2024

Standard

KAYAK
Whole experience of great! And yes it's an old location , and it is a hot Basement ,,, But Every interraction with Staff was excellent !!!!

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jun 2024

Pickup truck

KAYAK
Dan, the agent at rental return deserves a raise and 2 months paid vacation. Great employee! The overall service was great and he topped it off the charts!

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, May 2024

Standard

KAYAK
On the website, it tells you you can book with a debit card but you still need a credit card if you’re not out of state, which doesn’t make any sense!

10.0 Wonderful

Mehmet, Apr 2024

Standard

KAYAK
Very good experience. Professional staff at the both desk.

10.0 Wonderful

Ahmed, Jan 2024

Compact

KAYAK
I forgot to ask about the Toll usage, that could have been explained with options available. However overall experience was great. Customer service was fantastic. Specifically I would like to highlight the almo rep at the pickup location, Sidnei, who was extremely helpful and provided amazing service to pick up the car. Upon dropping off the car at MSP, I was met by James from Alamo who was fantastic at receiving my rental drop-off and provided service with a great smile. All thanks to the staff at Alamo. Great experience.!

1 out of 29

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Cleanliness

7.7

Comfort

7.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.3

Value for money

7.1

28 locations in Chicago

Show locations

Locations in Chicago

10 E Grand, Hilton Garage Fl 2

+1 312 670 7270

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

10255 W Zemke Blvd

+1 833 856 0900

Monday06:00 - 23:00
Tuesday06:00 - 23:00
Wednesday06:00 - 23:00
Thursday06:00 - 23:00
Friday06:00 - 23:00
Saturday06:00 - 23:00
Sunday06:00 - 23:00

1224 S Western Ave

+1 708 749 2000

Monday00:00 - 00:00
Tuesday00:00 - 00:00
Wednesday00:00 - 00:00
Thursday00:00 - 00:00
Friday00:00 - 00:00
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

1820 W 87th St

+1 773 239 3510

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday10:00 - 13:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

1842 N Milwaukee Ave

+1 773 862 4700

Monday07:30 - 17:00
Tuesday07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday07:30 - 17:00
Thursday07:30 - 17:00
Friday07:30 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

20 E Randolph St 3rd Fl

+1 312 670 7270

Monday00:00 - 00:00
Tuesday00:00 - 00:00
Wednesday00:00 - 00:00
Thursday00:00 - 00:00
Friday00:00 - 00:00
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

201 W Madison St Fl 3

+1 312 553 5230

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

2640 S Michigan Ave

+1 312 808 1228

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday10:00 - 13:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

2900 N Sheffield

+1 773 880 5001

Monday07:30 - 17:00
Tuesday07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday07:30 - 17:00
Thursday07:30 - 17:00
Friday07:30 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

3029 No Kedzie

+1 773 478 3310

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

303 W. Lake St

+1 312 251 0200

Monday00:00 - 00:00
Tuesday00:00 - 00:00
Wednesday00:00 - 00:00
Thursday00:00 - 00:00
Friday00:00 - 00:00
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

3057 N. Cicero

+1 773 286 0005

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

318 S. Morgan

+1 312 432 9780

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

4314 N Western Ave

+1 773 539 5900

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00