Columbus car rentals
Compare hundreds of rental car sites at once for car rental deals in Columbus, Georgia
Save up to 33%Compare multiple travel sites with one search.
Free to useThere are no hidden charges or fees.
Filter your dealsFilter by car type, brand and more. Instantly customise your results.
Book with flexibilityUse our "free cancellation" filter for maximum flexibility at no extra cost.
Columbus car rental information
| Pick-up location | Columbus |
|---|---|
| Car types | Compact, Economy, Full-size, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Minivan, Pickup truck, Standard, Standard SUV |
| Rental locations | 12 |
| Airport locations | 8 |
| Popular agencies | Turo, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Avis, Hertz |
Cheap car rentals in Columbus
| Economy | $39/day |
| Compact | $51/day |
| Intermediate | $35/day |
| Standard | $41/day |
| Full-size | $48/day |
| Minivan | $72/day |
| Pickup truck | $42/day |
| Intermediate SUV | $31/day |
| Standard SUV | $57/day |
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Columbus
- Drivers in Columbus frequently engage in aggressive driving such as speeding, swerving between lanes, and failing to yield. Always care for the lives of other road users and occupants while driving in the city. Do not be tempted to engage in aggressive driving when you come across an aggressive driver on the road. Adhere to all driving and traffic laws in Columbus. For example, all vehicles must yield to pedestrians at a four-way intersection where stop signs force all drivers to stop. Otherwise, the first driver to arrive should be the first to proceed. And if two drivers arrive at the intersection simultaneously, the one on the left should yield to the driver on the right.
- Columbus Metropolitan Airport (CSG) is approximately six miles from downtown Columbus. The drive downtown from the airport rental parking lot will take less than 20 minutes, depending on the route and traffic. The most common and fastest route is the use of Veterans Parkway. After exiting the airport, drive west on W Britt David Road and continue for about half a mile towards Mariner Drive. Join Airport Thruway and drive for about a mile before turning left onto Veterans Parkway. You will arrive in downtown Columbus after about four and a half miles.
- Explore Georgia using cheap car rentals in Columbus by taking day trips to nearby cities and attractions. Drive to the beautiful and awe-inspiring Callaway Gardens about 40 miles away in just under an hour. About 130 miles northwest of Columbus is Vulcan Parka and Museum, a drive that will take about 2h 40min. Take a 45min family drive to Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari for a thrilling nature and wildlife experience. Drive for about 3h 45min to the Appalachian Trail in Hiawassee, around 225 miles away. Moreover, you can take day trips to cities like Cold Springs, Riverside, Gainesville, and Monroe, all roughly 2h 30min away.
- Though public transport is offered in the city, enjoying a sense of wonder as you adventure at your own pace in Columbus and its surroundings with a rental car can’t be compared to anything else. Using car rentals in Columbus gives you the freedom and comfort you need to move to any place at any time. Maneuvering through the city and arriving at your desired destination won’t be a problem, considering most Columbus car rentals have a GPS navigation system. Even if it’s your first time in the city, with a navigation system you can drive to Hocking Hills, which is about an hour’s drive from Columbus city center. Whether you’re planning a business trip or a romantic getaway, booking a rental car in Columbus will save you time and make your trip more enjoyable.
- Most car rentals in Columbus are either within the CMH airport’s premises or a short walk away. Companies such as Enterprise, Alamo, Avis, Hertz, Budget, and Dollar are located at the airport, while others such as Thrifty and National offer shuttle and pick-up services from the airport.
- Although the city roads are well maintained, you should be cautious while driving a rental car in Columbus, especially when it is raining. Watch out for speed limits, other motorists, and rid yourself of all distractions. If it’s your first time in Columbus, set all your rental car’s controls before leaving the parking lot. Adjusting your GPS device or other control knobs while driving might take your eyes off the road, and increase your chances of causing an accident.
- Columbus is a big and busy city with hundreds of cars on the road at nearly any given time. To dodge wasting time in traffic jams, avoid moving around during rush hour, which is around 6am-8am, 3:30pm-4pm, and 6pm-7pm on weekdays. If you have to drive during rush hour, the roads to avoid are Interstate 70-71 downtown, state Route 315, and the I-270 outer belt, which are hugely trafficked. If you’re on a schedule or trying to catch a flight, keep these times in mind when planning your route.
- 25% of our users found rental cars in Columbus for $56 or less
- Book your rental car in Columbus at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Off-airport rental car locations in Columbus are around 33% cheaper than airport locations on average
- Full-size rental cars in Columbus are around 57% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Columbus
What type of car is recommended for driving in Columbus?
A compact car is suitable for driving through the city as it occupies less space and fits into the various parking lots easily. You can choose between a fuel-efficient mid-range car, a minivan, a sedan, or a sports car. It all depends on your budget and preference. However, if you’re traveling with four to seven people, taking a ride with an eight-seater SUV could be a better alternative.
What’s the speed limit in Columbus?
While driving on highways, 65mph and 70mph are permitted, which stretches to the rural interstates. The speed limit for other areas varies depending on where you are driving to. For instance, while approaching school zones, you should drive at a speed not exceeding 25mph. Be conscious of the speed limit signs that are in place. Keep in mind that the roads are monitored with a video surveillance system on major highways.
Where are the best places to park in Columbus?
Like any other big city that is packed with cars, finding a parking spot can be a big hassle. The parking lot fees vary across the city. For instance, a parking lot in Downtown Columbus, such as the Bicentennial Public Parking Lot, will cost you about $10-$20 on weekdays, whereas about $5-$10 on the weekends. A maximum stay is restricted to a few hours downtown and up to about 12h on Columbus's outskirts.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Columbus?
On average a rental car in Columbus costs $66 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 $40.
What is the cheapest car rental company in Columbus?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($51/day), Avis ($65/day) and Hertz ($72/day).
How much is gas price in Columbus?
The average gas price in Columbus is $3.52 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $42 and $56, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Columbus?
Full-size (Dodge Charger or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Columbus.
How can I find car rentals near me in Columbus?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does a Full Size car rental cost in Columbus?
A Full Size car rental in Columbus costs $33 per day, on average.
How much does a Compact car rental cost in Columbus?
A Compact car rental in Columbus costs $36 per day, on average.
How much does an Intermediate car rental cost in Columbus?
An Intermediate car rental in Columbus costs $36 per day, on average.
How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in Columbus?
On average a rental car in Columbus costs $460 per week ($66 per day).
How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in Columbus?
On average a rental car in Columbus costs $1,970 per month ($66 per day).
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 8 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.
Does downtown Columbus have rental locations?
Yes, renters can obtain cheap car rentals in Columbus downtown. Several rental companies provide a selection of vehicles suitable for all tastes and needs. Enterprise is along Veterans Parkway Road. Just like airport rental locations, downtown rentals offer 24-hour pick-up services at an extra fee.
Does Columbus have toll roads?
Luckily, Columbus car rentals don’t need to pay for tolls on roads in the city. However, you will incur tolls while driving on the I-75 and I-85 Express Lanes within the state. The former runs between Henry County and Clayton County, while the latter runs through Gwinnett Country.
Columbus car rental reviews and directory
Alamo
9.4
Wonderful
14 reviewsCleanliness
9.6
Comfort
9.2
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.2
Value for money
9.2
One location in Columbus
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Aug 2019
Pros:
staff super friendly at both ends drop off easy everything was perfectCons:
Nothing2.0 Poor
Mar 2018
Pros:
NothingCons:
The fact that I was denied my rental. If you accept a debit card and my card clearly says debit on the front of itchy can you not accept it.7.6 Good
Sep 2017
Pros:
Liked that the car was fast and reliable.Cons:
The price. We didn't get the deposit money back.8.0 Very good
Aug 2017
Pros:
I liked that they were professional and gave me a free upgrade.Cons:
Added fees without prior notification on website.5.6 Fair
Jul 2017
Pros:
value for moneyCons:
cleanliness of the vehicle very dirty with spots on the seats plenty of scratches on the outer surface of the vehicle and the vehicle smiled.10.0 Wonderful
Jul 2017
Pros:
Simple drop offEnterprise Rent-A-Car
7.5
Good
14 reviewsCleanliness
7.5
Comfort
7.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.5
Value for money
8.1
5 locations in Columbus
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2017
Pros:
The service was outstanding4.4 Mediocre
Nov 2016
Pros:
Great gas mileage on the car. Ended up with a Hyundai sonata Drop off was quickCons:
Car was dirty. Wait for pick up was about 2 hrs6.4 Okay
Nov 2016
Pros:
Car was great. Location easy to find.Cons:
I had scheduled to pick up the car at 8:00 a.m. When I arrived, they said it would be ready in 15 minutes. I did not leave until 8:35. This was a tad annoying.8.8 Very good
Oct 2016
Pros:
Pick up went incredibly smooth and fastCons:
The rental lot is not nearly as clearly labeled as other locations.5.2 Fair
Feb 2016
Cons:
Customer Service at the airport was lacking, no one to check in the car or issue a reciept.National
6.6
Okay
4 reviewsCleanliness
7.0
Comfort
7.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.0
Value for money
6.5
One location in Columbus
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
May 2021
Pros:
Sadly, this was a business ending experience for us!Cons:
We needed an SUV-sized vehicle for our trip to a high school graduation (we were transporting a large item to a family member). My wife made the reservation in MARCH for an SUV to be used at the tail of May. The day before our rental, my wife went to the rental company to ensure we were going to get the size vehicle we reserved. NONE WERE AVAILABLE! We had to scramble and borrow a neighbor’s SUV. We will not go with the company in the future!6.8 Okay
Jul 2020
Pros:
Part of the staff were helpful, the part were terribleCons:
When we got there, they didn’t have a premium SUV, the biggest was a 5 passenger, since there were 6 of us that wAsnt going to work. They didn’t offer a solution, told us we would have to take two cars. Finally a van magically appeared. Lots of my time was wasted!!! I will never ever use kayak againAvis
5.4
Fair
11 reviewsCleanliness
5.4
Comfort
5.4
Pick-up/Drop-off
5.4
Value for money
5.4
One location in Columbus
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Mar 2021
Cons:
Everything could've been better. They made me wait hours on a reservation rental! They rented my sports utility and gave me a mini car for the same price. They charged my credit card more than once , taking over$300 for a1 Day rental! Now I'm fighting fort my money back. Worse experience Ever!!! Run Run Run, I left Enterprise but may return seeing that They aren't so bad now after comparing.2.0 Poor
Jan 2021
Pros:
The staff was TRASH! Careless attitudes and busy in personal phones. I had to return my rental because the oil light came on. No one apologized for holding me up, I was an hour late for an important appointment and they didn’t care, I will never rent from Avis again. Their staff needs more customer service training. A simple “I’m sorry for your inconvenience” would’ve went a long way!8.8 Very good
Nov 2017
Pros:
Upgrade that was received because the size car we reserved was not available.10.0 Wonderful
Jun 2022
10.0 Wonderful
Dec 2021
2.0 Poor
Nov 2021
Budget
5.2
Fair
14 reviewsCleanliness
5.7
Comfort
5.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.8
Value for money
5.5
One location in Columbus
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Sep 2022
10.0 Wonderful
Aug 2020
Pros:
The staff was very friendly and helpful. The rental process and return was super easy. Thanks Budget Columbus Ga Airport!3.6 Poor
Jun 2020
Pros:
Staff unfriendly, didn't have a clean decent car. Never offered any apologies2.0 Poor
May 2020
Pros:
There was nothing about the experience with budget that was even expectable.Cons:
The right car available. Not getting a vehicle that smelt like marijuana and maintenance light not being on.4.0 Mediocre
Jan 2020
Pros:
Seemingly friendly staffCons:
The vehicle was awe full with no Nacional capabilities and very little utility in general. What vehicle doesn’t have the ability to at least connect a personal phone for navigation.9.2 Wonderful
Jun 2017
Pros:
extended and dropped off in killeen.Cons:
didnt get my recipt right awayHertz
5.0
Fair
19 reviewsCleanliness
5.7
Comfort
6.2
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.8
Value for money
4.8
One location in Columbus
Filters
Reviews
4.0 Mediocre
May 2021
Pros:
There was a vehicle for me to use.Cons:
The reservation although confirmed, was not ready. Staff at pickup were rude and short because my pickup was scheduled for 6pm, and they were ready to leave for the day at 6pm. I was told there was no vehicle like the one I had reserved, but they were willing to place me in a sedan. They handed the keys over, told me the total charge without explaining the break down and sent me on a hunt for the vehicle. It took me 10 minutes to find it only to see that the cleanliness sticker had been left torn from the previous rental trip. The car was not cleaned and it did not have a full tank of gas. There was no use going back to the counter since the staff was out the door before I could collect my baggage and follow. The drop off was smoother although I wasn't able to really talk to anyone about my concerns for billing. They had me drive up and leave the vehicle in a return line.2.0 Poor
Mar 2021
Pros:
The vehicle was fine.Cons:
I dropped the car off on the day it was due. I went inside and handed the keys to the attendant. After three days I started getting calls that my vehicle was overdue and I needed to return it. I was on vacation and was on the phone for a long time. I was informed it would be taken care of. The calls continued for 3 days. I called the company several times during my VACATION. After asking for a supervisor and telling them I was tired of being harassed, the calls finally stopped.5.2 Fair
Feb 2020
Pros:
Employees were unable to explain about the toll pass, i was never told that dropping off the car at a later time was going to cost me 49 dollars more.10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2018
Pros:
Very comfortable Nice size Cruse control Simple controlsCons:
none4.4 Mediocre
Jan 2018
Pros:
The car was fine and once I got it 2 hours after I was supposed to all went well. Only cost @ $20 to fill up which was good.Cons:
Hertz told us over the phone after we made the reservation we were good to pick up the car at 5 pm and we specifically told them we do not have a credit card and the lady said it would be fine we were good to go. They charged our bank account for the rental. When we got there the guy tells us we can't get the car because we don't have a credit card to put on file. I had to call a family member to come to the airport and bring me one to put on file and I was two hours late leaving. This was a terrible and stressful experience, embarrassing and a bad way to start a business trip. And to top it all off the extremely unhelpful and unwilling to do anything to help us non-customer service Hertz offered was pathetic. The only way I'll ever use this company again is if someone pays me to.10.0 Wonderful
Nov 2017
Pros:
Compared to the other rental places their vehicles are well maintained and in better condition.Cons:
It would be more convenient if they opened earlier than 9.Easirent
4.7
Mediocre
No reviews available
One location in Columbus
Sunnycars
No score available yet
One location in Columbus
Car rental locations in or near Columbus
Good to know
Most popular agency | Enterprise Rent-A-Car |
|---|---|
Most popular car type | Full-size |
Average price | $66/day |
Good deal | $56/day |
When to book a rental car in Columbus
Airports serving Columbus
Popular rental types in Columbus
- Van Rentals in Columbus
- Luxury Car Rentals in Columbus
- Pickup Truck Rentals in Columbus
- SUV Rentals in Columbus
- Convertible Car Rentals in Columbus
- Cargo Van Rentals in Columbus
- 6 Passenger Van Rentals in Columbus
- 7 Passenger Van Rentals in Columbus
- 8 Passenger Van Rentals in Columbus
- 9 Passenger Van Rentals in Columbus
- 10 Passenger Van Rentals in Columbus
- 12 Passenger Van Rentals in Columbus
- 15 Passenger Van Rentals in Columbus
Popular car brands to rent in Columbus
- Audi car rentals in Columbus
- BMW car rentals in Columbus
- Jaguar car rentals in Columbus
- Jeep car rentals in Columbus
- Land Rover car rentals in Columbus
- Lexus car rentals in Columbus
- Mercedes-Benz car rentals in Columbus
- Porsche car rentals in Columbus
- Subaru car rentals in Columbus
- Tesla car rentals in Columbus
- Toyota car rentals in Columbus