Search
Deals
Tips
FAQs
Agencies
Locations
When to book

DeKalb car rentals from $35/day

This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 72 hours by searching for a car rental in DeKalb with a pick-up date of 4/27 and drop-off date of 4/28. 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.
Tue 4/30
Tue 5/7

Compare hundreds of rental car sites at once for car rental deals in DeKalb, Illinois

Here is why travelers choose KAYAK

Save up to 38%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.

Cheap car rentals in DeKalb

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates.
Choose your dates
Economy$39/day
Compact$39/day
Intermediate$38/day
Full-size$43/day
Minivan$37/day
Full-size SUV$41/day
Premium$40/day
Pickup truck$36/day
Premium SUV$50/day
Standard SUV$35/day
Intermediate SUV$37/day
Compact SUV$38/day
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in DeKalb

  • Renting cheap car rentals in DeKalb offers numerous advantages that can enhance your visit to this vibrant city. DeKalb is home to Northern Illinois University, a renowned educational institution. Having a car rental in DeKalb will enable you to conveniently navigate the campus, attend events, or even visit friends or family who are students at the university. The city's location also makes it a gateway to several scenic destinations. By using DeKalb car rentals, you can easily reach attractions like the stunning Starved Rock State Park, which offers picturesque hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views that may not be easily accessible by public transportation.
  • Chicago Greater Rockford Airport (RFD) is approximately 33 miles away from DeKalb and is the closest airport to the city. The rental car offices at RFD are located right outside the baggage claim area of the terminal. Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD) is approximately 56 miles away from DeKalb. The rental car offices at ORD are located on the lower levels of each domestic terminal (1, 2, and 3) and in the international terminal 5. There are shuttle buses located outside the baggage claim areas of each terminal to take you to the rental car center, which is located off site.
  • DeKalb has a large population of college students and pedestrians, so you should always be aware of and prepared for pedestrians crossing streets when driving your DeKalb car rental, especially around the NIL campus. The city also has a good public transportation system served by buses, so drivers should be mindful of buses when driving cheap car rentals in DeKalb. When approaching a bus with its hazard lights on, it means the bus is about to stop, and drivers should give it the right of way.
  • Rush hour in DeKalb typically occurs between 7:30 am and 8:30 am and from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm on weekdays, but the traffic remains manageable even during these times. The main roads that are likely to have more traffic during rush hour are Lincoln Highway (IL-38) and Peace Road. Winters in DeKalb can also be tough due to snow and ice, which can make some of the roads, especially side streets, uneven and slippery, with low visibility that can lead to accidents. Temperatures during winter also tend to be freezing, which could lead to black ice. You should therefore equip cheap car rentals in DeKalb with the right tires during this season.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in DeKalb for $43 or less
  • Book your rental car in DeKalb at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Compact rental cars in DeKalb are around -236% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in DeKalb

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

    On average a rental car in DeKalb costs $49 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 DeKalb found in the last 2 weeks is $27.

  • What is the cheapest car rental company in DeKalb?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($36/day).

  • How much is gas price in DeKalb?

    The average gas price in DeKalb is $3.86 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $46 and $62, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular rental car in DeKalb?

    Compact (Nissan Versa or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in DeKalb.

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

    Car rental companies onsite at O'Hare Intl airport include Hertz, Kyte, Budget, Fox, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Dollar, Sixt, Alamo, Avis and Thrifty.

  • 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, Hertz, Budget, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Dollar, Alamo, Avis, Thrifty, Payless, and National.

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

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

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

    A Compact car rental in DeKalb costs $106 per day, on average.

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

    A Standard car rental in DeKalb costs $35 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Full Size car rental cost in DeKalb?

    A Full Size car rental in DeKalb costs $32 per day, on average.

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

    On average a rental car in DeKalb costs $342 per week ($49 per day).

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

    On average a rental car in DeKalb costs $1,465 per month ($49 per day).

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

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

  • How many car agencies are operating in DeKalb?

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

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

    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 DeKalb?

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

    DeKalb is a city that experiences all four seasons and has a mix of urban and rural driving conditions. Therefore, a mid-size SUV or crossover would be an ideal choice for a DeKalb car rental. These types of vehicles offer a combination of passenger and cargo space, fuel efficiency, and versatility in different driving conditions. An SUV or crossover provides better visibility and handling on rural roads, while also being able to handle snowy or icy conditions in the winter.

  • What’s the speed limit when driving a car rental in DeKalb?

    The standard speed limit within city limits is 30 mph. However, there are certain areas where the speed limit is higher or lower. In residential areas, the speed limit is typically 25 mph. On major streets, the speed limit may be increased to 35 or 40 mph. For example, along Annie Glidden Road, a major north-south thoroughfare running through the city, the speed limit is typically 40 mph. On highways surrounding the city, such as I-88 and I-39, the speed limit is typically 65 or 70 mph, depending on the stretch of road. The speed limit on rural roads outside the city limits is often 55 mph.

  • Where are the best places to park a car rental in DeKalb?

    In DeKalb, there are several parking options available, including free and paid parking. The cost of metered parking will vary depending on the time of day and location.  There are also several parking garages in downtown DeKalb that offer both hourly and daily rates.

DeKalb car rental reviews and directory

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

5.8

Best rated
Cheapest deal
Most popular

Cleanliness

7.7

Comfort

7.9

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.5

Value for money

7.1

6 locations in DeKalb

Show locations

Locations in DeKalb

11015 Route 47

+1 847 669 8686

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

1203 E Main St

+1 630 377 7800

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

1810 Sycamore Rd

+1 815 756 5400

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

2055 S Lincoln Highway

+1 630 377 7800

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

2080 Main St

+1 630 377 7800

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday12:00 - 15:00

400 S Randall Rd Ste E

+1 847 488 9990

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

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Jun 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Truck was clean

Cons:

Nothing

5.2 Fair

Nov 2019

KAYAK

Cons:

Reserved car on Kayak Showed up and no car was available Will not use Kayak or Enterprise again

10.0 Wonderful

May 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff were very helpful and great customer service.

8.8 Very good

Oct 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Attendants were polite and picked us up and delivered us back to the residence.

Cons:

Didn’t like that they couldn’t help me with the toll payment problem. (I didn’t have all the change for a unmanned coins only toll booth on the Illinois tollway. I’m from California. Upon returning the car, I informed the enterprise staff who referred me to the 800# Enterprise problem solver which they said could walk me through paying the toll online, but that person couldn’t help. Also I returned the car with more gas than it had when I received it. (1/4 tank over), I thought they would reimburse me for the difference but just gave me a business card saying I could get the gas credited on the next rental but I rarely rent cars. I dont think the business card would be honored in the future anyway.

7.6 Good

Jul 2017

KAYAK

Cons:

They had no porter on staff that would detail each car between use. Si the office staff had to clean this is not their forte so to speak

7.2 Good

Jul 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

Very helpful staff and easy to speak with

Cons:

Everything went well. No complaints.

1 out of 3

Easirent

4.6

Mediocre

No reviews available

One location in DeKalb

Show locations

Locations in DeKalb

Chicago/Aurora Municipal Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Hertz

No score available yet

2 locations in DeKalb

Show locations

Locations in DeKalb

2020 Sycamore Road

+1 815 787 7501

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

2400 E Main St Ste 106

+1 630 762 9034

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

Filters

Reviews

2.4 Poor

Feb 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

The employee at the drop off end in Port St. Lucie was pleasant and seemed to know, and enjoy, his job.

Cons:

Car interior, windows and trunk were not clean. Staff in St. Charles office were not helpful. Mischarged for rental despite Kayak confirmation, and spent an hour over 2 calls trying to get it fixed. Got to FL to turn in car and found out the car they gave me the wrong car in St Charles IL!

2.0 Poor

Jan 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

N/A

Cons:

The initial car was left unclean and appeared to have animal hair left in the vehicle. One of our family members is extremely allergic to pets. When we asked the employee they understood why we were concerned but it took an additional 90 minutes to produce another vehicle & charges additional $110!

2.0 Poor

Jan 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

A week before the reservation, I made an alteration to my reservation directly through hertz website to change to a bigger car and an extra day. I was quoted an extra 30 bucks which is understandable. Within two hours from that change, which is still a week away, i called hertz to change back to my original reservation because I realized I didn’t need that extra day. I was ready to accept the $30 that I was charged because of changing the reservation multiple times. To my surprise, the rep on the phone said that I will be charged an extra 50 dollars for that change. ARE YOU KIDDING ME? But if I cancel the reservation I will not be charged for anything? What kind of business is Hertz running and Kayak backing up? I cancelled everything and called my local Avis and got more for my money. Wait no, I got the same car for 30 dollars cheaper. Call your local dealer, they will have better rates.

Cons:

Never hertz again.

10.0 Wonderful

Dec 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

Pre paid online, just drove there and picked the car up.

Cons:

Dark parking lot so it was hard to see the vehicle for the pre trip inspection.

8.0 Very good

Jun 2017

KAYAK

Cons:

It was in my neighborhood

6.4 Okay

Apr 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

The employees tried hard but they were understaffed for spring break.

Cons:

They did not have sufficient time to clean the car properly

1 out of 3

32 travelers who rented a car in DeKalb gave the car agency they used an average rating of 4.6

Car rental locations in or near DeKalb

Good to know

Most popular agency

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Most popular car type

Compact

Average price

$49/day

Good deal

$43/day

When to book a rental car in DeKalb

Average daily price per month
Rental car prices as pick-up date approaches