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San Diego car rentals from $16/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 San Diego with a pick-up date of 2/2 and drop-off date of 2/16. 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 San Diego

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
4-5
$16/day
View Deal
Nissan Versa car
Nissan Versa
or similar SMALL
4
2
2/4
$18/day
View Deal
Toyota Corolla car
Toyota Corolla
or similar MEDIUM
5
3
2/4
$18/day
View Deal
Toyota Camry car
Toyota Camry
or similar LARGE
5
2
2/4
$22/day
View Deal
Dodge Grand Caravan car
Dodge Grand Caravan
or similar VAN
5
5
4-5
$43/day
View Deal
Ford Explorer car
Ford Explorer
or similar SUV
5
2
4-5
$40/day
View Deal
Cadillac ATS car
Cadillac ATS
or similar LUXURY
5
5
4-5
$38/day
View Deal
Ford Mustang Convertible car
Ford Mustang Convertible
or similar CONVERTIBLE
5
3
2/4
$57/day
View Deal
Toyota Tacoma car
Toyota Tacoma
or similar PICKUPTRUCK
5
3
2/4
$31/day
View Deal
Mercedes-Benz GLS car
Mercedes-Benz GLS
or similar SUV
5
5
4-5
$55/day
View Deal
Class Special Car car
Class Special Car
or similar Category
5
5
2/4
$17/day
View Deal
Nissan Rogue car
Nissan Rogue
or similar SUV
4
2
4-5
$23/day
View Deal
Toyota RAV4 car
Toyota RAV4
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$26/day
View Deal
Hyundai Santa Fe car
Hyundai Santa Fe
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$30/day
View Deal
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

San Diego car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users

Insights shared by verified travelers who rented a car in San Diego 
Learn how KAYAK collects reviews and tips from users.
Verified travelerDec 2024
Good service. I will use them again
ShawnDec 2024
Check out the Turo app. There was a lot of options at decent prices. We paid ~50 a day for a Honda CR-V. The only issue is that you have to go to where the vehicle is located (usually at someone's house).
Verified travelerSep 2024
Rent with SIXT. They are head and shoulders above all rental companies.
Verified travelerNov 2024
For convenience, get a rental at the airport, don't use this company. For the price, it was the best price for a rental vehicle there was but getting there, is a difficult transition.
Verified travelerSep 2024
In San Diego, a midsize sedan or a small suv. Bigger can be difficult to find parking.
Verified travelerJun 2024
EVs are great in SD (at least Teslas). Lots of superchargers and if you charge after midnight, it's pretty cheap. Even drove to and around LA for a day and then back. Cost about $25 total - that's about the same as 5 gallons of gas for a lot of driving. $9 to top off at a charger near the Santa Monica Pier, and then $16 at a supercharger back in SD.
Verified travelerJun 2024
Best rental experience ever. All the employees were happy to help.
Verified travelerAug 2024
We rented a minivan. It was new and in excellent condition.
Verified travelerJul 2024
Make sure your rental location is not near the Mexico border if you are flying into the San Diego International Airport.
MatthewJun 2024
Make sure to double-check the location if expecting a rental close to the airport.
Verified travelerMay 2024
Offsite location was so much easier, less congested. Staff was professional and friendly. Car was ready upon arrival. Plus, there’s an In’n’Out Burger around corner!!
Verified travelerApr 2024
Make sure the rental car company is located at the rental car shuttle drop off not a different location.
AngieApr 2024
Go hybrid. Where we stayed didn't have a lot of charging options, plan ahead
TonyApr 2024
All rental cars are off site so plan accordingly.
Verified travelerDec 2023
Try to rent directly from the Company. Sometimes they have way better offers!
Verified travelerDec 2023
Close to the trolley. Very convenient.
Verified travelerDec 2023
Everyone was really really nice!!
TonyFeb 2024
This location is about a 10 minute Uber ride from the airport. Thought it was at the airport when we booked. Was not a big issue, but something to keep in mind.
Verified travelerJan 2024
I learned to drive in San Diego. I am always surprised when I return to see the average speed everyone drives gets faster than previous visits. 15 mph over limit now.
RicardoDec 2023
Airport rentals come with an extra fee. Rent from non-airport location if possible.
Verified travelerDec 2023
Not sure how I feel about the car renting business right now.
JanetDec 2023
Don’t feel you have to upgrade just because the sales person at the desk tells you you need to. He’s just trying to upsell you and there’s no reason for it.
PattiNov 2023
Driving in San Diego is a breeze with a GPS. Avoid the major highways during rush hour and you’ll have no issues. All of the main attractions were within a short driving distance from our Airport- Harbor Island hotel Rent from a a major company - AVOID U-Save. It did save some $ but not worth the aggravation.
Verified travelerOct 2023
If you have car insurance then it most likely have rental car coverage. Dont bother buying extra insurance from the rental agencies. Always best to call your car ins company and check about the coverage then if the rental co tries to pile this on you have some knowledge to deny it.
EnmanuelNov 2023
Go to Avis, they are great
GaryNov 2023
Make sure your rental company allows you to drive out of the area. Payless only lets you drive in SoCal, so I had to change to Thrifty at the last minute since I was doing a road trip to Colorado. Turn-in at San Diego is really easy for all rental agencies. The new car rental facility is really nice.
KathleenSep 2023
A little crazy compared to the midwest. Use navigation tools, with voice, and know that a slight right sometimes means a 360 degree turn. Also it will tell you to stay in the far right lane and 2 seconds later there are 2 new lanes on the right.
Verified travelerOct 2023
Park where you have plenty of room. My car was damaged in s hot and run while at a restaurant. Driving was fairly easy when using Google maps. Would not suggest going without proper map or directions.
Verified travelerOct 2023
Parking is limited in many areas and there may be charges for parking at hotels and restaurants, etc.
Verified travelerOct 2023
Make sure you don’t get charged over
Verified travelerOct 2023
Rent in advance and don't take no for an answer since most rental companies don't want to honour online rentals
Verified travelerAug 2023
Driving in San Diego is difficult only in that freeway traffic signage comes up quickly as the road are curvy....especially if the older highways. USE GPS and listen to it. DO NOT text and drive.
SarahAug 2023
Choose a company at the rental center and not “offsite” to save yourself the headache. We rented a car from Fox after the Economy disaster and that went very smooth.
KatherineJul 2023
I was not driving during rush hour so it was very easy. The rental location is right next to the freeway so access was very easy.
Jeri LynJun 2023
We used our navigation, and we were able to find all of our destinations quickly and easily.
ThomasJun 2023
Driving in San Diego was not difficult, especially when we used our rental cars navigation system.
Verified travelerJun 2023
Spend the extra money and go with a bigger better company
Verified travelerAug 2023
Rent from sam diego airport location. Very well run
LauraJun 2023
Make sure you bring your itinerary and foreign driver’s licence even if you also have an American driver’s licence.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Uber drivers were quite competent, but since I got screwed over by Hertz, I can't answer this personally.
ChristinaJul 2023
Call the rental places about their deposit policies because neither this company nor kayak.com made that clear
TommyJul 2023
Stick with larger companies (ie Enterprise) and rent directly from the company and not a third party.
LeahAug 2023
Parking can be a challenge, and just like any other big city, traffic can be heavy.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Don’t follow the car in front of you too closely. Avoid rush hour.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Make sure it’s closer to San Diego airport not to CBX.
HerbAug 2023
Contact the rental counter as soon as you land / arrive
Verified travelerJul 2023
Typical large city driving. No special issues or problems.
LucasAug 2023
Try not to if you can
DwaineJun 2023
Just don't drive during rush hour.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Bring a car charger for phone
Verified travelerJul 2023
Parking near beaches is nightmare. Rent a spot before you go. SpotHero is good app for this.
Verified travelerMay 2023
Listen to the agent carefully as he tells you he has a larger car. Always ask how much more it will cost!
Verified travelerMay 2023
When filling gas tank, pull nozzle out when pump stops; then put nozzle back in and finish filling
Verified travelerMay 2023
Use the actual rental agency to book and not a third party.
Verified travelerMay 2023
Make sure you check the location before you travel
JoshuaMay 2023
Rent at the airport and not the office location

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in San Diego

  • Locate the toll roads in San Diego and know how to pay them. There is one toll road in San Diego, the State Route 125, also known as the South Bay Expressway. You should know this before you find yourself driving along it. It’s possible to pay with the FasTrak system. You can check beforehand with your agency if this feature is available for your cheap car rentals in San Diego. Nonetheless, it’s also possible to pay with cash or a credit card at the toll booth, or within four days using the Pay-by-Plate option which has an extra processing fee.
  • Although traffic is manageable, roads are usually fairly busy throughout San Diego, so avoid rush hours both in the morning (between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m.) and afternoon (between 4:00 and 6:00 pm) if you don't want to be stuck in traffic for longer than needed. Freeways along the coast also get pretty packed on weekends, especially the I-5.
  • Driving around San Diego is the most convenient and comfortable way of getting to know all corners of the region, as the freeway system is fairly easy to navigate and traffic is manageable (aside from during rush hour). Because public transportation services are unreliable in the city, staying mobile by renting a car is the best option. It is also ideal for travelers looking to explore other destinations outside the city, such as the wine country of nearby Temecula, or those who want to embark on a road trip along the California coast.
  • Although the freeway system isn't generally complicated, always have a map or a GPS on hand to help you. When driving downtown, beware of tourists or other reckless drivers who may be too used to driving in the city. If you’re interested in hopping across the border to Mexico, make sure you talk to your rental agency, as they may need to provide specific documentation, such as car insurance that is also valid in the neighboring country. But if your plan includes a day trip to Tijuana, it's easier to just park your car on the U.S. side of the border and walk across.
  • All the big car rental agencies can be found in the San Diego International Airport (SAN), at the Consolidated Rental Car Center just outside the airport. The Rental Car Center is accessible via free shuttle bus services that stop at all terminals.
  • When you’re planning to drop off your cheap car rentals in San Diego, know that at the airport, the car rental agencies are located out of the terminal and consolidated at the Rental Car Center. This is the same place as the pick-up location for those who got their rental cars from the San Diego International Airport (SAN). The Rental Car Center is located right off the Pacific Highway, adjacent to the San Diego International Airport (SAN). Nonetheless, the airport offers a free shuttle service to get you from your drop-off location to your departure terminal. These buses run 24/7 stopping at both of the airport terminals.
  • Before driving your San Diego car rentals around, make sure you know the main rules and driving tips of the city and the surrounding areas. The carpool lanes on freeways (H.O.V. lanes) can only be used with two or more occupants in the car, and accessing only at the designated entry and exit points, where there are broken lines. In the state of California, you’re able to make a right-hand turn on red. Also, keep in mind that it’s prohibited to smoke while in the car with a minor, as well as driving while under the influence of alcohol, with a BAC of 0.08% or over.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in San Diego for $27 or less
  • Book your rental car in San Diego at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Intermediate rental cars in San Diego are around 67% cheaper than other car types, on average
See more tips

FAQs about renting a car in San Diego

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in San Diego?

    An automatic lower car, such as a Ford Mustang, is the best option when navigating both the city and the coastal roads. A convertible is a great option to enjoy the scenic rides along the coast when the weather allows it.

  • What’s the speed limit in San Diego?

    The speed limit in the city is 25 miles per hour, but on urban highways it is set at 55 mph, and on rural highways it is between 65 and 70 mph. Generally, the speed limit on multi-lane freeways is 65 mph.

  • Where are the best places to park in San Diego?

    Street parking in downtown San Diego is usually available, but it tends to be quite pricey, costing around $3 for one hour, and between $10 and $30 for 24 hours. Parking laws are strictly enforced throughout the whole city, so make sure you always pay for parking. Parking in beach areas is tougher to find, but pay lots are an option.

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

    On average a rental car in San Diego costs $35 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 San Diego found in the last 2 weeks is $21.

  • What is the cheapest car rental company in San Diego?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at NU Car ($16/day), Economy Rent a Car ($17/day) and U-Save ($18/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest rental car price was found at NU Car 2263 Pacific Hwy null (1 miles from city center).

  • What is the best rental car company in San Diego?

    Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental companies in San Diego are Alamo (8.5, 103 reviews), Enterprise Rent-A-Car (7.5, 173 reviews), and Sixt (6.8, 132 reviews).

  • How much is gas price in San Diego?

    The average gas price in San Diego 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 San Diego?

    Intermediate (Dodge Dart or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in San Diego.

  • Which car rental companies are at San Diego airport (SAN)?

    Car rental companies onsite at San Diego airport include Payless, NU Car, San Diego Rental Auto, York Car Rental, Econorent, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, U-Save, Alamo and Dollar.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at San Diego airport (SAN)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from San Diego airport to off-airport locations include Payless, Economy Rent a Car, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Alamo, and Dollar.

  • How can I find car rentals near me in San Diego?

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

  • How much does an Intermediate car rental cost in San Diego?

    An Intermediate car rental in San Diego costs $24 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Premium car rental cost in San Diego?

    A Premium car rental in San Diego costs $25 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Mini car rental cost in San Diego?

    A Mini car rental in San Diego costs $28 per day, on average.

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

    On average a rental car in San Diego costs $247 per week ($35 per day).

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

    On average a rental car in San Diego costs $1,058 per month ($35 per day).

  • Should I get insurance when renting a car in San Diego?

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

  • How many car agencies are operating in San Diego?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 63 car rental agencies in San Diego.

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

    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 San Diego?

    KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in San Diego so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.

  • What are some of the top destinations to drive to from San Diego?

    Take advantage and visit more of the San Diego area. Check out the beautiful, classy area of La Jolla. It’s just under a half an hour's drive from downtown San Diego. The La Jolla Cove is worth the miles. If you’re interested in a more historic and scenic visit, Julian is about an hour east of San Diego.

  • Are there any car rental agencies located in downtown San Diego?

    Yes, there are various car rental companies with non-airport offices in the central downtown area of San Diego. Enterprise and Avis, for instance, have a pick-up location in the East Village, and Budget is in Little Italy. If you find yourself closer to Harborview, there are NU Rental and Hertz offices.

See more FAQs

San Diego 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

8.5

Very good

Read 49 reviews

Cleanliness

8.8

Comfort

8.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.8

Value for money

7.9

One location in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 833 763 1741

Monday04:30 - 23:59
Tuesday04:30 - 23:59
Wednesday04:30 - 23:59
Thursday04:30 - 23:59
Friday04:30 - 23:59
Saturday04:30 - 23:59
Sunday04:30 - 23:59

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

4.0 Mediocre

Patrick, Oct 2024

Intermediate SUV

KAYAK
The price quoted was double when I got there to pickup.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Oct 2024

Supplier choice

KAYAK
It was easy, very friendly managers, kiosk or a manager and the kiosk guy was trying to make the line go fast and sort everybody to speed up the process.

8.0 Very good

Anonymous, Jul 2024

Economy

KAYAK
Liked: Clorox wipe - great touch. Friendly staff After hours drop off Convenient (for us) pick up / drop off locations Could be better: Cost - we only needed the car for a few hours but had to rent it for the entire day. I get it, but would be nice to have a 1/2 day option. 😊

10.0 Wonderful

Jeremy, Jun 2024

Full-size

KAYAK
Great car. Great service. Done well.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jun 2024

Compact SUV

KAYAK
Quick pickup, so easy very well organized. Best car rental expetience ever. San Diego Airport.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jun 2024

Luxury

KAYAK
A-1 customer service from everyone who worked there

1 out of 17

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

7.5

Good

Read 110 reviews
Best rated

Cleanliness

7.7

Comfort

7.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.4

Value for money

7.3

14 locations in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

1 Park Blvd

+1 619 696 5000

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

1333 Camino Del Rio South

+1 619 260 1505

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

2305 Pacific Hwy

+1 619 294 7774

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

2740 Lytton Street

+1 619 225 0848

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

2780 Garnet Ave

+1 858 490 1510

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

3299 Holiday Court

+1 858 404 0700

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

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 833 763 1739

Monday04:30 - 23:59
Tuesday04:30 - 23:59
Wednesday04:30 - 23:59
Thursday04:30 - 23:59
Friday04:30 - 23:59
Saturday04:30 - 23:59
Sunday04:30 - 23:59

3851 El Cajon Blvd

+1 619 229 2300

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

6330 Marindustry Dr

+1 858 455 0075

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

6620 Mira Mesa Boulevard

+1 858 404 0700

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

7993 Balboa Avenue

+1 858 560 9050

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

900 F St Ste 167

+1 619 696 5000

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

9292 Miramar Rd # 28

+1 858 689 8523

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

950 Hotel Circle North

+1 619 296 7493

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

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