Iowa City car rentals from $47/day

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Cheap car rentals in Iowa City

Chevrolet Spark car
Chevrolet Spark
or similar Small
2
2
$47/day
Ford Focus car
Ford Focus
or similar Small
4
2
$51/day
Kia K4 car
Kia K4
or similar Medium
5
3
$54/day
Nissan Altima car
Nissan Altima
or similar Large
5
2
$54/day
Chrysler Pacifica car
Chrysler Pacifica
or similar Van
5
5
$56/day
Nissan Pathfinder car
Nissan Pathfinder
or similar SUV
5
2
$78/day
Chevrolet Impala car
Chevrolet Impala
or similar Luxury
5
5
$78/day
RAM Pickup car
RAM Pickup
or similar Pickup truck
5
3
$62/day
BMW X5 car
BMW X5
or similar SUV
5
5
$94/day
Nissan Rogue car
Nissan Rogue
or similar SUV
4
2
$53/day
Class Special Car car
Class Special Car
or similar Category
5
5
$54/day
Mazda CX-5 car
Mazda CX-5
or similar SUV
5
3
$56/day
Chevrolet Equinox car
Chevrolet Equinox
or similar SUV
5
3
$63/day

KAYAK’s insights & trends for Iowa City car rentals

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

How far in advance should you book a rental car in Iowa City?

You should book your rental car in Iowa City around 89 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.

What is the cheapest car rental company in Iowa City?

In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Dollar ($47/day), Hertz ($51/day) and Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($54/day). The cheapest rental car price was found at Dollar, 1029 S Riverside Drive (1.0 mi from city center).

What is the most popular rental car in Iowa City?

Rentals in the SUV category (Kia Niro or similar) are the most popular option in Iowa City, costing $98/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as $42/day.

What is the cheapest month to rent a car in Iowa City?

The cheapest month to rent a car in Iowa City is January at an average cost of $41/day. July is the most expensive month to rent a car in Iowa City when prices are $86/day on average, which tends to be 34% above the yearly average rental price for Iowa City.

What rental car company in Iowa City has the most locations?

Enterprise Rent-A-Car, VIPCars Recommendation and Budget each operate 2 locations in Iowa City, more than any other rental company.

Iowa City car rental price comparison by vehicle type

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

Small cars

$31 - $78

All Car Types

$53 - $108

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

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

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

How much does it cost to rent an SUV in Iowa City?

How much does it cost to rent a van in Iowa City?

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

How much does it cost to rent a luxury car in Iowa City?

Small car rentals in Iowa City typically cost around $55 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $31 per day which is about 44% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 31% cheaper than the average rental in Iowa City, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Medium car rentals in Iowa City typically cost around $81 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average $61 per day which is about 25% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 3% more expensive than the average rental in Iowa City offering a good balance of space and value.

Large car rentals in Iowa City typically cost around $87 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $58 per day which is about 34% less than the yearly average. Large cars are typically 10% more expensive than the average rental in Iowa City, but offers more comfort for longer trips.

SUV rentals in Iowa City typically cost around $80 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $56 per day which is about 30% less than the yearly average. SUVs are typically 2% more expensive than the average rental in Iowa City, but provide extra space and capability for groups or road trips.

Van rentals in Iowa City typically cost around $111 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $61 per day which is about 46% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 29% more expensive than the average rental in Iowa City, but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.

Pickup truck rentals in Iowa City typically cost around $81 per day. The best time to book is September, when prices average $45 per day which is about 45% less than the yearly average. Pickup trucks are typically 3% more expensive than the average rental in Iowa City, ideal for hauling gear or outdoor adventures.

Luxury car rentals in Iowa City typically cost around $108 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average $77 per day which is about 29% less than the yearly average. Luxury cars are typically 27% more expensive than the average rental in Iowa City, but deliver premium comfort and style for special occasions.

Good to know

Most popular agency

Most popular car type

Average price

Good deal

Turo
Medium
$69/day
$55/day

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Iowa City

  • Opting for a rental car can be the wisest decision a visitor can make while on vacation in Iowa City. You can tour multiple fun attractions in the city with car rentals in Iowa, regardless of whether these attractions are around the city or far from Iowa City. You can tour the gorgeous Pikes Peak State Park in Iowa's city center with your rental car within minutes after hiring a rental vehicle. You can also tour other attractions miles away from the city within an hour. For instance, you can drive your rental car to Clear Lake and experience diverse marine life. The lake is 70 miles from the city center, and you can get there and experience the best of the lake in less than one and a half hours when driving from the city center in your rental car
  • Explore all Iowa City has to offer with Iowa City car rentals. You can explore the city at your own pace without relying on public transportation in your rental car. You can also rent a car that fits your specific traveling needs, whether you need a large vehicle when traveling with a family/group or an affordable vehicle from one of the cheap car rentals in Iowa City. In addition, renting a car is often cheaper than using other means of transportation, such as taxis or Uber. Enjoy your car rental and explore multiple Iowa City destinations in one visit, including the 26,000-acre Amana Colonies and the historic Gaslight Village.
  • Hiring a rental car to tour the many exciting attractions in Iowa City, like the State Capitol and Iowa State Fair, can be convenient for those coming to Iowa for their vacation. It's, however, wise for visitors to rent car rentals in Iowa that are near or within the airports in the city to save on their rental car budget. Dubuque Regional Airport, for instance, has a car rental agency near Terminal 3. Other airports have car rentals in Iowa nearby where drivers can hire different car types to tour the city.
  • In Iowa City, the legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit for drivers is 0.08. Car renters should be aware of this law and not operate a vehicle after consuming any alcohol that would put their BAC over the legal limit. This is because such alcohol levels cause mental impairment and reduced caution and good judgment, which could lead to accidents. To be safe, ensure to provide an additional driver when booking your preferred rental car, who will drive the car when your BAC escalates.
  • Driving in Iowa City is relatively easy, considering that all the roads in this city are in excellent condition. That notwithstanding, drivers should adopt defensive driving techniques while driving on routes passing through crowded places, such as 42nd Street and 56th street in Des Moines. The interstate Highway also passes through crowded public areas. Maintain a 3-meter gap distance when driving behind other vehicles.
  • When driving in and around Iowa City, it is important to use appropriate defensive driving skills. This means you must watch other drivers to ensure they are driving safely. In addition, you will have to watch out for other cars entering intersections. Note that winter months can bring with them hazardous road conditions such as snow, so be sure to properly winterize your vehicle and practice caution while on the roads. Be mindful of changing weather conditions and exercise extra care when entering new roads due to possible road restrictions and closures.
  • Avoid unnecessary lane changes while driving on busy roads to avoid causing accidents while driving in Iowa City. There are also cameras all over to monitor traffic and you risk getting on the wrong side of the law if you commit a traffic offense.Some roads in Iowa City experience mad traffic during rush hours. Streets such as the East-West IA 7, Red Ball Street, and 56th street in Des Moines have heavy traffic during rush hours, starting between 7 am to 9 am in the morning and 4 pm to 6 pm in the evening. Avoid driving on these roads after or before rush hours.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in Iowa City for $55 or less
  • Large rental cars in Iowa City are around 47% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in Iowa City

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

    On average a rental car in Iowa City costs $69 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 Iowa City found in the last 2 weeks is $54.

  • Which car rental companies are at Cedar Rapids airport (CID)?

    Car rental companies onsite at Cedar Rapids airport include Thrifty, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Hertz.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at Cedar Rapids airport (CID)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Cedar Rapids airport to off-airport locations include Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and Hertz.

  • How can I find car rentals near me in Iowa City?

    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 Iowa City?

    A Medium car rental in Iowa City costs $58 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Luxury car rental cost in Iowa City?

    A Luxury car rental in Iowa City costs $104 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Special car rental cost in Iowa City?

    A Special car rental in Iowa City costs $60 per day, on average.

  • What is the most popular rental car location in Iowa City?

    In Iowa City, cars are most frequently rented at Enterprise Rent-A-Car 1275 Highway 1 West (2 miles from city center).

  • Should I get insurance when renting a car in Iowa City?

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

  • How many car agencies are operating in Iowa City?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 5 car rental agencies in Iowa City.

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

    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 Iowa City?

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

    Although there are multiple Iowa City car rentals, the vehicle you hire while on vacation in Iowa City should depend on factors like the number of occupants in your car and the amount and size of luggage you want to carry during your road trip. An economy car or SUV is ideal for visitors who plan to drive solo with limited luggage. A compact vehicle is suitable for drivers planning to cruise the rugged and mountainous areas of the city, such as the Driftless Area Scenic Zigzags. Smaller vehicles are perfect for visitors  driving through the city’s narrow streets.

  • What documents do I need to rent a car in Iowa City?

    When renting a car in Iowa City, you must present an up-to-date driver's license and international passport if you're not a US citizen. Depending on the rental agency, you may also need other documents, such as a credit card that would hold the security deposit. Remember that some cheap car rentals in Iowa City may demand additional documentation to prove your identity as they deem necessary.

  • What is the speed limit in Iowa City?

    The speed limit in Iowa City depends on where you are driving in this city. Drivers traveling on highways outside Iowa City should drive at 70 mph. Those driving on highways within this city shouldn’t exceed a speed limit of around 60 mph. Motorists driving on the crowded streets should be more cautious and must maintain a speed limit of around 25 mph.

  • What are the child safety and safety belt rules in Iowa City?

    Infants under 20 lbs must be securely placed in a properly installed rear-facing infant seat. Children under three years old must be fastened into a car seat that is compliant with current federal safety standards. Anyone under 12 years of age must ride in the back seat, which can help to minimize injury during a crash. Violators may be subject to fines for not abiding by Iowa's Safety-Belt Law.

  • Which are the best places to park in Iowa City?

    Most drivers park their vehicles in parking lots while vacationing in Iowa City. Others park in the parking areas in their hotels. You should be ready to pay for parking if you aren't parking your rental car in your hotel or a parking lot. Some of the best and cheap parking places in Iowa City  include Capitol Street Garage, Iowa City Parking, and Harrison Street Parking Ramp. They charge around $5 for parking. It’s good to walk to your destination if it’s near your hotel because you won’t have to pay for parking once you get to the destination. Or, you can use public transportation if you want to travel within the city and thus you don’t need parking space. 

Iowa City car rental reviews and directory

 

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8.6

Very good

Cleanliness

9.3

Comfort

9.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

9.3

2 locations in Iowa City

Locations in Iowa City

1275 Highway 1 West

+1 319 358 7000

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

2121 Arthur Collins Pkwy Sw

+1 833 511 1750

Monday07:00 - 22:00
Tuesday07:00 - 22:00
Wednesday07:00 - 22:00
Thursday07:00 - 22:00
Friday07:00 - 22:00
Saturday08:00 - 22:00
Sunday08:00 - 22:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Dec 2024

Minivan

KAYAK
All well

1 out of 2

Hertz

7.0

Good

Cleanliness

6.6

Comfort

6.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.0

Value for money

6.3

One location in Iowa City

Locations in Iowa City

1029 S Riverside Drive

+1 319 337 6615

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Jill, Jul 2026

Full-size

KAYAK
The Altima was a great car, nice clean, great mileage. Getting in and out was a bit of a challenge for a couple of retired people but overall it was a great car!

2.0 Poor

Naomi, Dec 2021

KAYAK
They did not rent me the car and now I am out the money because no why to get it back. I am pissed

1 out of 2

Dollar

8.3

Very good

One location in Iowa City

Locations in Iowa City

1029 S Riverside Drive

+1 319 337 6615

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

No reviews available

Budget

6.3

Okay

2 locations in Iowa City

from$60/day

Locations in Iowa City

2000 James St

+1 866 671 7282

Opening times not available

265 Stevens Drive

+1 319 351 4529

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 15:00

Filters

No reviews available

VIPCars Recommendation

No score available yet

2 locations in Iowa City

Locations in Iowa City

2121 Arthur Collins Pkwy Sw#14, Cedar Rapids, , USA Iowa

+1 914 368 0091

Monday00:00 - 23:59
Tuesday00:00 - 23:59
Wednesday00:00 - 23:59
Thursday00:00 - 23:59
Friday00:00 - 23:59
Saturday00:00 - 23:59
Sunday00:00 - 23:59

5800 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, , USA Iowa

+1 914 368 0091

Monday00:00 - 23:59
Tuesday00:00 - 23:59
Wednesday00:00 - 23:59
Thursday00:00 - 23:59
Friday00:00 - 23:59
Saturday00:00 - 23:59
Sunday00:00 - 23:59

Filters

No reviews available

Sunnycars

No score available yet

One location in Iowa City

Locations in Iowa City

2121 Arthur Collins Pkwy Sw

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Thrifty

No score available yet

One location in Iowa City

from$45/day

Locations in Iowa City

1029 S Riverside Drive

+1 319 337 6615

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

No reviews available

9 travelers who rented a car in Iowa City gave the car agency they used an average rating of 6.9

Car rental locations in or near Iowa City

More options for your car rental in Iowa City

Iowa City car rental information

Pick-up locationIowa City
Car typesSmall, SUV, Medium, Large, Van, Pickup truck, Luxury
Rental locations5
Airport locations0
Popular agenciesDollar, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Hertz, Turo, Thrifty