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 Columbus with a pick-up date of 5/11 and drop-off date of 5/31. 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 Columbus
Discover the best prices for you by selecting your travel dates on KAYAK.
Make sure you book your appointment for the day of pick up with extra time, especially during busy travel dates.
MaryJMar 2024
Give yourself an extra hour for the rerun and catching the shuttle back to the airport. It’s a huge purple bus. It’s easy to find it also as the airport has purple signs to follow for both pickups and return.
Verified travelerMar 2024
Very fast and efficient service picking up and dropping off the car
JoelDec 2023
Columbus is a relatively easy big city to drive through.
GaryOct 2023
Very stress free setup and service.
JenniferSep 2023
Driving in Columbus is very easy.
Verified travelerNov 2023
Make sure to double or even triple check each step in the rental process and take pictures and videos! It’s a shame but you quite possibly will end up needing them to protect yourself!
AudreyJul 2023
Having our paperwork ready and using the pre-check QR code made things run very smooth.
LaverneAug 2023
Go to Enterprise they are the best.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Watch out for truck tires
Victoria KochMay 2023
Car rentals are all offsite. But a shuttle picks you up at the terminal and takes you to a centrally located car rental pick up/drop off site. Which seems very efficient for everyone.
BryanMay 2023
Freeway merges are long to give one time to change lanes and follow GPS instructions. Drove in rush hour traffic. It was very manageable. Maybe I was just lucky.
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Columbus
Make the most out of your trip to Columbus and rent a car to explore everything from Lincoln Village in the west of the city to Blacklick Woods Metro Park or Pickerington Ponds Metro Park in the east. Columbus has a lot on offer and, with a car, you can conveniently reach all your destinations within your own timeframe.
For travelers landing at John Glenn Columbus International Airport, rent a car directly from the on-site car rental center to be in the city in less than 15 minutes. The airport sports eight agencies, including Alamo, Avis, and Hertz, who can be found on the ground level of the parking garage where the cars are also parked. Posted signs help drivers out of the airport to the I-670, which directly leads into the heart of Columbus.
Columbus is definitely not as challenging to drive in as Boston, for example, but rental car drivers should double-check before venturing into an intersection, as right of way is not always followed. Also, Columbus drivers tend to drive slower on the left lane, which is nonetheless discouraged. When it rains, make sure to adapt the speed, as full downpours commonly happen in Columbus.
The winters in Ohio can be harsh and cold, so winter travelers should ensure the rental car is properly equipped for the cold season. If parked overnight, make sure the tank is always half-full or more; otherwise, the risk of a frozen gas line increases. Also bear in mind that the posted speed limits are intended for dry roads, so, when snow and sleet are coating the streets, speed must be reduced and adapted to the road conditions.
Columbus is surrounded by fantastic destinations. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the elite destinations near Columbus. Situated 128.6 mi (207km) from Columbus, this park features a historical canal, cycling trails, and waterfalls. Newark, situated 40 mi (64km) away, is another fantastic destination near Columbus. In this small city, you can check out the interesting Works Museum and the historical mounds constructed by Old Native Indian organizations. Seneca Caverns is also a superb destination not far from Columbus. Located 97.4 mi (157km) away, this natural attraction is a destination you'll enjoy visiting if you love underground explorations. With a rental from one of the cheap car rentals in Columbus, you can easily drive to any or all of these destinations. This being the case, if you plan on exploring several destinations while in Columbus, it's in your best interest to rent a car from a reliable Columbus car rental.
From the moment you pick up your car from your preferred cheap car rental in Columbus to when you return it, you must drive within the speed limits. This is because, in Columbus, speeding attracts huge fines. In this city, if caught driving under 10mph over the set limit, you'll pay a fine of $152. On the other hand, if you're caught driving 20 mph over the speed limit, you'll be fined $192.
There are numerous cheap car rentals in Downtown Columbus. Hence, if you want to rent a car in downtown Columbus, you can do so without hassle. In this part of the city, Enterprise has a location on East Livingston Avenue, while Budget has a location on East Long Street.
25% of our users found rental cars in Columbus for $47 or less
Book your rental car in Columbus at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
Standard rental cars in Columbus are around 27% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Columbus
What type of car is recommended for driving in Columbus?
With regular rain and ice on the streets, a 4-wheel drive car is certainly a wise choice to make in Columbus. Depending on how much storage is needed, a smaller SUV or minivan are an appropriate choice which provide essential road grip while still being small enough to navigate through the city without problems.
What’s the speed limit in Columbus?
Adhering to the posted speed limit is paramount when driving through Columbus. If there is no sign posted, the general speed limits are as follows: 15 mph in alleys, 20 mph in school areas, 25 mph in residential areas, up to 65 mph on interstates, and up to 70 mph on rural freeways. Don’t forget to adapt the speed to the weather and road conditions.
Where are the best places to park in Columbus?
Street parking as well as garages and public parking lots are available in Columbus. Street parking, especially in the downtown area, is usually metered, so check the time and weekday restrictions at the posted sign. Parking garages such as Lot 005 or LeVeque Tower Garage, for example, offer daily or even monthly parking opportunities for a reasonable charge and are centrally located.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Columbus?
On average a rental car in Columbus costs $57 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 Columbus found in the last 2 weeks is $50.
What is the best rental car company in Columbus?
Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental companies in Columbus are Enterprise Rent-A-Car (8.2, 53 reviews), Hertz (7.3, 60 reviews), and Budget (6.3, 153 reviews).
How much is gas price in Columbus?
The average gas price in Columbus is $3.40 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $41 and $54, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Columbus?
Intermediate (Toyota RAV4 or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Columbus.
Which car rental companies are at Columbus airport (CMH)?
Which car rental companies will pick you up at Columbus airport (CMH)?
Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Columbus airport to off-airport locations include Thrifty, Dollar, Hertz, Avis, and Budget.
How much does an Intermediate car rental cost in Columbus?
An Intermediate car rental in Columbus costs $63 per day, on average.
How much does a Premium car rental cost in Columbus?
A Premium car rental in Columbus costs $94 per day, on average.
How much does a Standard car rental cost in Columbus?
A Standard car rental in Columbus costs $70 per day, on average.
What is the most popular rental car location in Columbus?
In Columbus, cars are most frequently rented at Payless 4106 International Gateway (6 miles from city center).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in Columbus?
Most car rental providers in Columbus offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Columbus, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in Columbus?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 12 car rental agencies in Columbus.
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Columbus?
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 Columbus?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Columbus so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
What areas should I look out for while driving in Columbus?
While driving your cheap rental car in Columbus, you must keep an eye out for school, work, hospital zones, and residential areas. When driving in the first three zones, you must maintain a speed not more than20mph, while in residential areas, you must maintain a speed not more than 25mph. If you're caught speeding in any of these zones, you'll be fined upwards of $150.
Are there parking spaces in Downtown Columbus?
If you'd like to park your rental car in downtown Columbus, you can do so with ease, given that this part of the city is home to several parking garages. Some notable parking spots in Downtown Columbus include LeVeque Tower Garage on North Front Street, Blue Garage on South 6th Street, and Columbus Commons Garage, on East Rich Street.
Branch staff were nice, car was very good. Thanks!
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Mar 2025
Luxury
When I got there, they took it up charge me for fuel that was for an electric car at about $50. I refused and then they told me I could upgrade to a standard vehicle for $10 more. I declined and I went online and canceled my reservation on the phone before hand Reserving a vehicle to rent from Columbus airport to Cleveland airport. It was totaled $49 and then I got the bill and it was $447 and I filled out the gas right before I dropped it off and then on my bill it shows that the tank was not full and they charged me $9.99.a gallon Now I must also mention that they gave me a dirty car inside and out and it smelled like marijuana, but I didn’t have time to deal with that. I must also say that they charge me a $300 one-way fee that was not disclosed at the time of purchase and I went over all the aspects of the contract that the size of the vehicle, the price insurance and everything with the agent at the gate before I picked up the car so they basically switched everything in the contract and said that that’s what I reserved and then I do a chargeback and I’m Losing
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Feb 2025
Luxury
Completely rude, hire new people.
8.0 Very good
Aaron, Feb 2025
Luxury
Slow line at checkout
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Dec 2024
Passenger van
There was one agent for Avis, Budget, and Payless, and even though I was #2 in line, it took me 20 minutes to see her. Then she told me the van I had reserved was not at that location, and that they would have to go get it. I didn't end up renting the van.
4.0 Mediocre
Susan, Sep 2024
Compact
They gave me a huge van which had terrible gas mileage of course. Not similar to what I had booked. The agent didn’t mention what car and by the time I arrived at the lot to find it, I didn’t want to go back in, up the stairs with luggage and try to complain. It was a waste of money and I didn’t want to drive this mini bus around for my rental purposes.
They gave me the smallest car in the lot. Constant text and email about car and returning it. The messages were annoying and unnecessary.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jul 2024
Pickup truck
Convenient location, friendly and supportive staff, good selection of vehicles.
8.0 Very good
Tiffany, May 2024
Passenger van
Overall outstanding, friendly, fast service.
2.0 Poor
Syed, May 2024
Standard SUV
The lady at time of pick up was very rude
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Oct 2023
Premium SUV
Easy, clean and the car I rented was new, did not have smoker's smell.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, May 2021
Pros:
I booked a car rental for the Columbus Airport. When I arrived at the Enterprise desk, they told me my rental was across town. I asked for help to get across town or get the car to me (no longer an enterprise offering), but the desk clerk basically said "nope, you're on your own". Kayak also provided no additional help. I rented from Avis desk, don't know why I would use Kayak again
Everything went smoothly only complaint I got is you guys don't take chime
6.0 Okay
Mike, Aug 2024
Full-size
Pickup (CMH) staff did not apologize for giving me a car with a dead battery and made it seem like it was my fault. Drop off (PHL) shuttle bus drivers did their best to avoid picking up passengers - a few of us had to walk to the terminal. Hertz used to be a premium brand - now they are just average.
4.0 Mediocre
Anonymous, Aug 2024
Full-size
You should remove the option for Ft Wayne airport return. Hertz is not at the airport - I had to ask the protocol from the other car rental companies that basically said “ this is hertz MO” to charge the extra fee. Thankfully I didn’t have a flight - just a return. Had to drive to a downtown location (closed) to return on time.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Dec 2021
I did not rent the car from this location. Upon arrival, attendant required proof of own car insurance. I do not have own car or insurance, which is why I was renting the car. The alternative provided was $40/day for complete insurance from the location itself. I rent cars very often - this has never been a requirement before as my credit card offers great insurance coverage.
4.0 Mediocre
Anonymous, Dec 2021
Hertz still charges an extra daily fee to add a spouse as an authorized driver. Luckily it looks like a lot of car rental companies are moving away from this, but it's ridiculous
8.0 Very good
Ellen, Nov 2021
There was an extra charge for a second (spouse) driver which I don’t think we have ever had from another company. When I looked back at the agreement it did mention additional charges for another driver but didn’t say what they were (13$/day). I would have looked at another rental company if I had been aware upfront (like, the info not buried in the middle of the rental agreement) as it did push the price much past the competition’s price. The car was nice, clean, etc.
easiest/fastest rental and return I have ever had!
Cons:
nothing
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Oct 2020
Cons:
There was no refund on the rental, even though the charge was fraudulent. It caused me to have to manage the situation with my bank.
5.2 Fair
Anonymous, Sep 2020
Pros:
Car was ok----Ford Eco Sport
Cons:
The Thrifty location was farthest from terminal. The staff was occupied with one customer. The wait was long. The attendant did not know how to open the back of SUV. Therebwas no one there when the car was returned---not a single person and they were aware fo when I was returning. Thrify is cheap for a reason!
2.0 Poor
lester, Aug 2020
Cons:
If I would hv got my car. Putting my money back in my account. Trying to get them back on the phone.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Aug 2020
Cons:
I never got the rental. I got to the airport and they stated I needed a major credit card. I canceled the rental car and You still kept my money. I want that taken off my debit card asap
Ran out of cars despite having a reservation. Had to wait over an hour. Staff were not very polite and car had dirt all over back seat. Drop off was simple which was the best part of the whole experience.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Oct 2024
Intermediate SUV
Trying to submit lost & found report and no way to contact them and link sent from phone logic tree is invalid when selecting my return location.. calling the location directly results in being put on hold for 10 minutes and hung up on. Caling the corporate customer service live agent directed me to Avis website.. They are unreachable and it seems like its intentional.
6.0 Okay
Anonymous, Mar 2024
Intermediate
Definitely a car that used by a smoker in the past.
10.0 Wonderful
Craig, Nov 2023
Economy
Easy to use!
2.0 Poor
John, Oct 2023
Standard SUV
The car smelled like stale cigarette smoke and didn’t seem very clean. I felt like I was borrowing somebodies car and not renting. The battery died while I was out with my family. Would not recommend Payless car rentals
You guys have taken care of me every single time.man if your service gets any better I’ll be in total disbelief
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Sep 2024
Standard SUV
Always fast an speedy,vehicles always clean.customer service awesome
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Aug 2020
Cons:
Poorest management and the stuff needs more training
3.2 Poor
Crystal, Jun 2020
Cons:
I reserved a Tahoe or equivalent but they gave me a Tacome truck with less space. The wait to check in and get vehicle was over an hour wait. The truck was dirty: the previous user had a dog in it and there was hair everywhere. The window have finger smudges on all of them and there was fish scales in the tail bed. I was definitely a lack luster experience.
Cars were not readily available in Columbus Had to wait 15-20 to get a car after check in process
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Dec 2023
Minivan
It was great
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Oct 2023
Full-size
It was perfect! Don’t change anything!
6.0 Okay
Anonymous, Mar 2021
Pros:
Staff did a very nice job
Cons:
Car had been smoked in The odor became overwhelming during the rental
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Dec 2020
Pros:
Pick up and drop off were very easy.
6.0 Okay
Bariki, Oct 2020
Pros:
I was not given clear direction to where to go pick up. I was in the garage for over 20min looking. After locating a person he pointed me to a vehicle that didnt have any keys... frustrated at this point i walk back to the booth and demand they get the van and bring it. That took forever.
Cons:
Have an attendant on hand. It SHOULD NEVER BE THE CUSTOMERS RESPONSIBILITY TO FIND THE VEHICLE
Staff was not there at the time of my pick up no help on the phone when I called dollar corporate services. Staff was late opening on the second day when I went back to get my car. Not wearing facemask. Very bad experience!
Cons:
Communications between dollar rental and carrentals.com, through who I made my reservation. More punctual and professional help both at the counter in person as well as online is needed.
2.0 Poor
Bonnie, Apr 2021
Pros:
Nothing. They closed before 6 pm, my flight was late. No car to pick up. Rip-off.
Cons:
They could make provisions for early evening pickup. Ie 6 pm
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Mar 2021
Cons:
We made a “reservation” for a Suburban. When we got there all they had left was a little 4 door car. We have 7 people in our family so that wouldn’t work. The man working was nice enough, but he told us when you reserve with a lower cost rental company it’s hit or miss. Sometimes you get what you want, and sometimes you don’t. He showed us a long list of people he had to call to tell them they didn’t have any cars available. I would not recommend renting from Dollar because there NO GUARANTEE that you’ll get what you reserve, or any car for that matter!
2.0 Poor
Jessica, Mar 2021
Cons:
They should have notified us that they close at 2pm and that, they would not be able to rent us a car. Their sign says go upstairs to the 2nd floor and someone will help you. Then upstairs it says we close at 2pm. So we had to pay double what our original reservation was and book with Hertz there on the spot.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Feb 2021
Pros:
Nothing
Cons:
I booked a car at 7 pm. I reached at 7:30pm. Noone was there .
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Dec 2020
Pros:
didn't pick up car - mom got corona 2 days before christmas and was unable to cancel. thanks priceline, won't be going through you anymore.
Cons:
not going through priceline
Easirent
4.6
Mediocre
One location in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
John Glenn Columbus International Airport
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
Free2Move
No score available yet
3 locations in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
1629, Lockbourne Rd
+1 844 543 7332
Opening times not available
1749, E Columbus St
+1 844 543 7332
Opening times not available
20, S Third street Suite 210
+1 844 543 7332
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
Sunnycars
No score available yet
One location in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
4106 International Gateway
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
462 travelers who rented a car in Columbus gave the car agency they used an average rating of 5.0
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