United States
USD

San Luis Obispo car rentals from $24/day

Save up to 40% on car rentals. Compare deals from all over the web.

Never overpay with our price tracking tools.

Filter searches by price, agency and more to find your best car rental.

Car Rental Deals
Booking Insights
Car Rental Deals

Cheap car rentals in San Luis Obispo

Hyundai Accent car
Hyundai Accent
or similar Small
2
2
4-5
$24/day
View deal
Fiat 500L car
Fiat 500L
or similar Small
4
2
4-5
$29/day
View deal
Toyota Corolla car
Toyota Corolla
or similar Medium
5
3
2/4
$41/day
View deal
Volkswagen Jetta car
Volkswagen Jetta
or similar Medium
5
3
2/4
$35/day
View deal
Nissan Altima car
Nissan Altima
or similar Large
5
2
4-5
$37/day
View deal
Chrysler Pacifica car
Chrysler Pacifica
or similar Van
5
5
4-5
$56/day
View deal
Class Full-size SUV car
Class Full-size SUV
or similar SUV
5
2
4-5
$54/day
View deal
Honda Odyssey car
Honda Odyssey
or similar Van
5
2
4-5
$81/day
View deal
Class Luxury Car car
Class Luxury Car
or similar Luxury
5
5
4-5
$52/day
View deal
Class Premium SUV car
Class Premium SUV
or similar SUV
5
5
4-5
$61/day
View deal
Class Intermediate SUV car
Class Intermediate SUV
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$41/day
View deal
Chevrolet Equinox car
Chevrolet Equinox
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$48/day
View deal
Class Luxury SUV car
Class Luxury SUV
or similar SUV
5
5
4-5
$61/day
View deal
Booking Insights

KAYAK’s insights & trends for San Luis Obispo car rentals

Check out the latest trends and booking tips to rent a car in San Luis Obispo with confidence.

How far in advance should you book a rental car in San Luis Obispo?

You should book your rental car in San Luis Obispo around 35 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.

What is the cheapest car rental company in San Luis Obispo?

In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Turo ($24/day), Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($35/day) and Avis ($41/day).

What is the most popular rental car in San Luis Obispo?

Rentals in the SUV category (Chevrolet Equinox or similar) are the most popular option in San Luis Obispo, costing $80/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as $45/day.

What is the cheapest month to rent a car in San Luis Obispo?

The cheapest month to rent a car in San Luis Obispo is January at an average cost of $52/day. July is the most expensive month to rent a car in San Luis Obispo when prices are $68/day on average, which tends to be 13% above the yearly average rental price for San Luis Obispo.

What rental car company in San Luis Obispo has the most locations?

Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates 4 locations in San Luis Obispo, more than any other rental company.

Find deals

San Luis Obispo car rental price comparison by vehicle type

Find the right rental car in San Luis Obispo by comparing prices across vehicle types.

Small cars

$45 - $66

All Car Types

$75 - $93

How much does it cost to rent a small car in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to rent a medium car in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to rent a large car in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to rent an SUV in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to rent a van in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to rent a pickup truck in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to rent a luxury car in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to rent a convertible in San Luis Obispo?

Small car rentals in San Luis Obispo typically cost around $54 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $45 per day which is about 17% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 35% cheaper than the average rental in San Luis Obispo, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Medium car rentals in San Luis Obispo typically cost around $62 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average $53 per day which is about 15% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 25% cheaper than the average rental in San Luis Obispo, offering a good balance of space and value.

Large car rentals in San Luis Obispo typically cost around $70 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average $55 per day which is about 22% less than the yearly average. Large cars can be 15% cheaper than the average rental in San Luis Obispo, offering more comfort for longer trips at a valuable price.

SUV rentals in San Luis Obispo typically cost around $87 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $77 per day which is about 12% less than the yearly average. SUVs are typically 6% more expensive than the average rental in San Luis Obispo, but provide extra space and capability for groups or road trips.

Van rentals in San Luis Obispo typically cost around $130 per day. The best time to book is September, when prices average $115 per day which is about 12% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 37% more expensive than the average rental in San Luis Obispo, but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.

Pickup truck rentals in San Luis Obispo typically cost around $83 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average $61 per day which is about 27% less than the yearly average. Pickup trucks are typically 2% more expensive than the average rental in San Luis Obispo, ideal for hauling gear or outdoor adventures.

Luxury car rentals in San Luis Obispo typically cost around $94 per day. The best time to book is May, when prices average $74 per day which is about 22% less than the yearly average. Luxury cars are typically 13% more expensive than the average rental in San Luis Obispo, but deliver premium comfort and style for special occasions.

Convertible rentals in San Luis Obispo typically cost around $95 per day. The best time to book is March, when prices average $74 per day which is about 23% less than the yearly average. Convertibles are typically 14% more expensive than the average rental in San Luis Obispo, perfect for scenic drives and warm-weather destinations.

Good to know

Most popular agency

Most popular car type

Average price

Good deal

Turo
Medium
$61/day
$45/day

San Luis Obispo car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users

Insights shared by verified travelers who rented a car in San Luis Obispo 
Verified travelerJan 2026
Find the location ahead of time so they know where to find Avis. Ask the representative to show you where the car is in person and how to work it.
Verified travelerAug 2023
Book way in advance for good rates
HingMay 2023
It’s a tiny airport and the car rental facility was east to navigate.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in San Luis Obispo

  • Renting a car in San Luis Obispo is a convenient and flexible means of visiting the city and getting a feel of the culture. Several airports are remotely far from the town center, such as the Santa Barbara Airport, approximately 75.8 miles away, and the Los Angeles International Airport, 158.9 miles away, thus it is more ideal and cheaper to opt for rental cars in San Luis Obispo. There are also several sandy beaches, hot springs, and beautiful landscapes located a few miles out of town, easily accessible using a personal vehicle.
  • Some of the car rentals in San Luis Obispo are conveniently situated at the San Luis Obispo County (SBP) Airport, including Enterprise, Avis, Hertz, and Easier, which can be found at the baggage claim area at the Car Rental Center with the cars parked around 260 feet from the terminal. Off-site rentals, such as Budget, can be accessed via the airport shuttle, which is located on the east side of the terminal and are cheaper than taxis.
  • Like other major cities, visitors are advised to be cautious while on the road and observe traffic rules. There are a few intersections in San Luis Obispo which are known to be hazard zones, especially to speeding drivers, such as the Santa Rosa and Foothill intersection and Los Osos Valley and Calle Joaquin intersection. There are also a few cases of distracted driving, as well as jaywalkers and cyclists who fail to observe traffic laws. While selecting a vehicle in one of the car rentals in San Luis Obispo, it advisable to get GPS to be able to navigate through unfamiliar roads.
  • The rush hour in San Luis Obispo is pretty short-lived, with commuters spending an average of around 15 to 20min on the road, but is usually extended on roads undergoing construction. Rush hour in the morning is usually between 7:30am and 8:30am when people are leaving for work and school, and picks back up at 6pm to 7pm when people are heading back home. Heavy rains are also known to extend commute times in San Luis Obispo.
  • Choosing a vehicle from San Luis Obispo car rentals enables you to navigate attraction sites, such as Pismo Beach, just 10 miles away. The beach is best for water sports enthusiasts and is a perfect place for kayaking and sailing. Bubblegum Alley is less than a mile away from San Luis Obispo and takes only 4 minutes. The iconic site is known for used bubble gum accumulation on the alley walls. The local farmer's market is also a worthwhile destination for visitors. It is held on Higuera Street between Chorro and Osos Streets every Thursday evening, just a mile away from San Luis Obispo.
  • You will find no car rental offices at the Amtrak Station in San Luis Obispo. However, some cheap car rentals in San Luis Obispo can conveniently deliver a vehicle to a location of your choosing. If you want to pick up your rental car from their offices that is a great option too. There are several locations along Broad Street where you can a company to rent you a vehicle.
  • San Luis Obispo has excellent transport infrastructure. However, you may not miss traffic build-ups during weekly events such as the local farmers' market, which is held every Thursday night. Hundreds of residents flock to the fiesta that offers blooming flowers, fresh locally grown produce, handmade craft goods, jewelry, and farm-to-table dinners for less than $10. Higuera Street may be closed during this event, causing traffic in the city. Indubitably, the navigation system installed in your car will help you navigate and find less congested roads.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in San Luis Obispo for $47 or less
  • Small rental cars in San Luis Obispo are around 22% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in San Luis Obispo

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

    There are several options to choose from at San Luis Obispo car rentals, depending on whether you’re considering a solo trip or planning to explore the Central Coast area as a group. Compact vehicles are recommended for when your visit to San Luis Obispo is concentrated in the town, while large SUVs are more ideal for large numbers of people and are a more comfortable option for those who visit the landscape in the outskirts of town.

  • What’s the speed limit in San Luis Obispo?

    The statutory speed limit in San Luis Obispo is set at 50mph. School zones have a set speed limit of between 15mph and 40mph at specific times of the day, while the speed limit in the business district is 25mph. There are also a couple of speed traps set up on Foothill Ave between Casa St and California Blvd, as well as Northbound Hwy 1, thus motorists are advised to drive with caution.

  • Where are the best places to park in San Luis Obispo?

    There are several parking options available while on your stay in San Luis Obispo. There are parking garages such as the City of San Luis Obispo Parking as well as the Marsh Street Parking Structure, which closes at around 6pm and provide 1h free parking on weekdays, 2h free parking on Saturdays, and all-day free parking on Sundays. The municipal lot on Marsh St provides free parking for up to 2h. Parking is free in Downtown San Luis Obispo.

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

    On average a rental car in San Luis Obispo costs $61 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 Luis Obispo found in the last 2 weeks is $58.

  • Which car rental companies are at County airport (SBP)?

    Car rental companies onsite at County airport include Budget and Enterprise Rent-A-Car.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at County airport (SBP)?

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

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

    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 San Luis Obispo?

    A Medium car rental in San Luis Obispo costs $54 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Small car rental cost in San Luis Obispo?

    A Small car rental in San Luis Obispo costs $49 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Large car rental cost in San Luis Obispo?

    A Large car rental in San Luis Obispo costs $76 per day, on average.

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

    Most car rental providers in San Luis Obispo 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 Luis Obispo, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.

  • How many car agencies are operating in San Luis Obispo?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 6 car rental agencies in San Luis Obispo.

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

    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 Luis Obispo?

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

  • Are there HOV lanes in San Luis Obispo?

    While there are numerous high occupancy vehicle lanes in California, you will not find any while cruising in your vehicle from cheap car rentals in San Luis Obispo through the city. However, you are free to carpool in the city. Notably, a project aimed at adding HOV lanes on South Coast Highway 101, which passes through San Luis Obispo, is underway.

  • Are there toll roads in San Luis Obispo?

    While California has numerous express lanes that charge a toll, San Luis Obispo doesn’t charge any fees for road usage. However, this doesn’t mean that you will find heavy traffic on the city’s roads. The highways are usually clear unless an event featuring road closure occurs. At all times, be sure to check on the road sign. Cameras monitor your driving, and the CHP may call for a fine.

San Luis Obispo car rental reviews and directory

 

Avis

8.5

Very good

Cleanliness

8.7

Comfort

8.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.4

Value for money

8.0

2 locations in San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

333 Madonna Road

+1 805 595 1464

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 13:00
Sunday10:00 - 14:00

975 Airport Drive, Suite 8

+1 805 544 0630

Monday08:00 - 23:00
Tuesday08:00 - 23:00
Wednesday08:00 - 23:00
Thursday08:00 - 23:00
Friday08:00 - 23:00
Saturday08:00 - 23:00
Sunday08:00 - 23:00

Filters

Reviews

6.0 Okay

Anonymous, Aug 2026

Supplier choice

KAYAK
They gave me all electric car without offering me an alternative. Never used one before and was not aware of the hassle it is to find a charging station.

10.0 Wonderful

Matt & Wendy, Apr 2026

Intermediate SUV

KAYAK
Quick check in and check out. Car was clean and new.

2.0 Poor

Mark, Apr 2026

Luxury

KAYAK
Avis promised a Cadillac, a full luxury car. Instead, they provided a Kia with 35,000 miles on it. It was a mediocre exchange. I asked for a financial compensation for that downgrade and I was told that Avis may take care of it later. It feels like a bait and switch to me.

4.0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Jan 2026

Standard SUV

KAYAK
Our pickup was in the back side of a motel with NO signs anywhere that said Avis. Hard to find and had to call Avis representatives to find office. The desk representative was not helpful and not very friendly… didn’t show us where the car was, how to work it, NOTHING.. I give her a zero. The car was nice and the drop off in Tuson was easy to find and the representative was very friendly and helpful.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Mar 2025

Pickup truck

KAYAK
The entire experience was wonderful. The front desk staff was fantastic to work with.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Sep 2024

Standard

KAYAK
Pro:Easy check in. Improvement: Needed to call earlier that they were closing right when we were going to pick up car. Did not realize they closed same time we were to pick up car.

1 out of 8

Budget

7.8

Good

Cleanliness

7.9

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.5

Value for money

7.8

2 locations in San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

4554 Broad Street

+1 805 541 3977

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 12:00

975 Airport Drive, Suite 5

+1 805 541 2722

Monday08:00 - 22:00
Tuesday08:00 - 22:00
Wednesday08:00 - 22:00
Thursday08:00 - 22:00
Friday08:00 - 22:00
Saturday08:00 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 22:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Luther, Mar 2026

Intermediate

KAYAK
Counter service was a little slow but the agent was friendly. Walk to /from lot to the terminal is a bit inconvenient.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jul 2025

Intermediate

KAYAK
Please contact me

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jul 2025

Intermediate SUV

KAYAK
Rental agent was exceptionally helpful and very nice!

6.0 Okay

Daniel, May 2025

Economy

KAYAK
I requested a child’s booster seat and when I made the reservation, it didn’t cost extra. It just showed my total cost with seat included free. When I arrived for pickup, they informed me that it was an additional $15 per day. This obviously is frustrating for a renter to find out at this point. Not cool

10.0 Wonderful

Elizabeth, Sep 2024

Intermediate

KAYAK
TOO NOTCH!

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jul 2024

Economy

KAYAK
The man at the desk was really pleasant and helpful and got me into a car quick , even unpgraded me to a wonderful orange Tacoma for minimal fee. He was kind and made it a great experience overall. Thank you to him.

1 out of 8

Hertz

7.4

Good

Cleanliness

7.4

Comfort

7.4

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.9

Value for money

6.4

3 locations in San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

4554 Broad Street Suite #130

+1 805 781 3385

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

4751 Aviadores Way

+1 805 781 3383

Monday09:00 - 21:30
Tuesday09:00 - 21:30
Wednesday09:00 - 21:30
Thursday09:00 - 21:30
Friday09:00 - 21:30
Saturday09:00 - 21:30
Sunday09:00 - 21:30

975 Airport Drive Ste.06

+1 805 781 3383

Monday09:00 - 22:30
Tuesday09:00 - 22:30
Wednesday09:00 - 22:30
Thursday09:00 - 22:30
Friday09:00 - 22:30
Saturday09:00 - 22:30
Sunday09:00 - 22:30

Filters

Reviews

4.0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Dec 2021

KAYAK
United Dropped me in DC and I had to Rent a Car to Drive myself home to VA Beach. I requested a FULL SIZE Car and got a Little KIA. It didn't even have Electric Seats or a Rear Window Wiper. The Driver who took us from Airport to Avis was Very Rude and insisted on playing his Radio Loud even when I explained I needed to Make an Important Phone Call.

1 out of 1

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

7.0

Good

Cleanliness

7.2

Comfort

7.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.2

Value for money

6.4

4 locations in San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

12318 Los Osos Valley Rd

+1 805 546 6270

Opening times not available

2989 Broad Street

+1 805 546 6270

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday
Sunday

975 Airport Dr

+1 844 942 0338

Monday08:00 - 20:00
Tuesday08:00 - 20:00
Wednesday08:00 - 20:00
Thursday08:00 - 20:00
Friday08:00 - 20:00
Saturday08:00 - 20:00
Sunday08:00 - 20:00

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Opening times not available

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jul 2026

Pickup truck

KAYAK
I only needed the car for 3 hours. The 24 hour rate was a lot. A nice option for 12 hours or same day pickup/drop off discount

6.0 Okay

Loren, Jun 2026

Intermediate

KAYAK
The windows were not clean, inside and out. I had to buy cleaning solution and paper towels the next morning to clean them so I could see. Ridiculous !

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Dec 2024

Compact SUV

KAYAK
Great and easy collection, very helpful staff and easy drop off! Would use again for a rental car.

4.0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Nov 2024

Intermediate

KAYAK
When I went to pick up the car my credit card wasn't working when putting in the machine. The representative said he couldn't enter it manually. Finally it worked but almost had a heart attack if it didn't. Then on my on 2nd to last day the battery went bad had to call road side assistance and was told it would be a $55 charge. The AAA driver said it was the original battery and wouldn't hold a charge and probably would have to call the next morning. Fortunately I ran the car for about an hour and half and it did start the next day and the enterprise representative waived the fee.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Sep 2024

Compact

KAYAK
Car was not available upon arrival. No cars.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jun 2024

Standard

KAYAK
No car available

1 out of 2

National

8.1

Very good

One location in San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

975 Airport Dr

+1 844 942 0338

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Easirent

4.5

Mediocre

Cleanliness

5.2

Comfort

5.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

4.5

Value for money

5.1

One location in San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo County Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

102 travelers who rented a car in San Luis Obispo gave the car agency they used an average rating of 4.8

Car rental locations in or near San Luis Obispo

Go to map view

Traveling to a place near San Luis Obispo?

Rent a car at San Luis Obispo if you plan to visit one of these locations
Cambria
San Simeon
Avila Beach
Cayucos

More options for your car rental in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo car rental information

Pick-up locationSan Luis Obispo
Car typesSmall, Medium, Large, SUV, Luxury, Van
Rental locations13
Airport locations7
Popular agenciesEnterprise Rent-A-Car, Avis, Turo