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

On average a rental car in San Mateo costs $45 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 Mateo found in the last 2 weeks is $45.

Which car rental companies are at San Francisco airport (SFO)?

Car rental companies onsite at San Francisco airport include National and Avis.

Which car rental companies will pick you up at San Francisco airport (SFO)?

Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from San Francisco airport to off-airport locations include National, and Avis.

How can I find car rentals near me in San Mateo?

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

How much does a Small car rental cost in San Mateo?

A Small car rental in San Mateo costs $55 per day, on average.

How much does a Medium car rental cost in San Mateo?

A Medium car rental in San Mateo costs $87 per day, on average.

How much does a Large car rental cost in San Mateo?

A Large car rental in San Mateo costs $37 per day, on average.

Should I get insurance when renting a car in San Mateo?

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

How many car agencies are operating in San Mateo?

KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 1 car rental agencies in San Mateo.

What type of car is recommended for driving in San Mateo?

For small groups of people, such as couples or solo travelers, it is more convenient to choose small compact vehicles or convertibles while cruising through California, while larger SUVs are better options for larger groups and are more comfortable when touring the plains of San Mateo.

What’s the speed limit in San Mateo?

The speed limit on most residential roads is 25mph unless otherwise posted. The San Mateo Bridge is set at 65mph, while highways have multiple test areas marked 55mph. School zones have a speed limit of 25mph when driving within 500-1000 feet while children are outside or crossing the street.

Where are the best places to park in San Mateo?

There are several parking options available in San Mateo, for both flash parking and long-term parking. All parking facilities offer free parking on Sundays, holidays and after 6pm every day. The Central garage offers 3h and 10h parking spaces, which charge at around $1.25 per hour, Main Street Garage costs approximately $0.75 per hour, Kinko’s Lot charge around $0.25 per hour while South Railroad Ave, Tennis Court Garage, and Transit Center Garage all charge about $0.75 per hour.

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

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 Mateo?

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

Can I turn left or right at a red light in San Mateo?

The driving laws in San Mateo only allow you to turn right at a red light if there are no signs prohibiting you. On the other hand, you can only make a left turn at a red light when you are moving from a one-way street to another.

How much is a speeding ticket in San Mateo?

A first-time offender can get fined a base fine of 35 dollars. However, the ticket can cost about $710, depending on your excess speed limit. Additionally, if you are assigned demerits on your license, they will stay on your record for three to seven years.

Car Rentals in San Mateo from $27/day - Search for Rental Cars on KAYAK

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

Scion xD

or similar Small

4-5

$32/day

View deal

Kia Soul

or similar Small

4-5

$27/day

View deal

Toyota Corolla

or similar Medium

2/4

$30/day

View deal

Nissan Altima

or similar Large

4-5

$33/day

View deal

Toyota Sienna

or similar Van

4-5

$56/day

View deal

Toyota Highlander

or similar SUV

4-5

$51/day

View deal

Buick Regal

or similar Luxury

4-5

$46/day

View deal

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

or similar Luxury

4-5

$62/day

View deal

Ford Bronco

or similar SUV

4-5

$41/day

View deal

Subaru XV Crosstrek

or similar SUV

4-5

$45/day

View deal

Toyota 4Runner

or similar SUV

4-5

$48/day

View deal

Booking Insights

KAYAK’s insights & trends for San Mateo car rentals

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

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

You should book your rental car in San Mateo around 25 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.

What is the most popular rental car in San Mateo?

Rentals in the SUV category (Kia Sportage or similar) are the most popular option in San Mateo, costing $55/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as $32/day.

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

The cheapest month to rent a car in San Mateo is January at an average cost of $40/day. March is the most expensive month to rent a car in San Mateo when prices are $64/day on average, which tends to be 16% above the yearly average rental price for San Mateo.

What rental car company in San Mateo has the most locations?

Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates 2 locations in San Mateo, more than any other rental company.

Find deals

San Mateo car rental price comparison by vehicle type

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

Small

Medium

Large

SUV

Van

Pickup truck

Luxury

Convertible

	Small cars	$27 - $56
	All Car Types	$53 - $95

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Small car rentals in San Mateo typically cost around $40 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $27 per day which is about 33% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 43% cheaper than the average rental in San Mateo, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Medium car rentals in San Mateo typically cost around $60 per day. The best time to book is April, when prices average $40 per day which is about 34% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 15% cheaper than the average rental in San Mateo, offering a good balance of space and value.

Large car rentals in San Mateo typically cost around $67 per day. The best time to book is April, when prices average $38 per day which is about 44% less than the yearly average. Large cars can be 5% cheaper than the average rental in San Mateo, offering more comfort for longer trips at a valuable price.

SUV rentals in San Mateo typically cost around $68 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $54 per day which is about 21% less than the yearly average. SUVs can be 3% cheaper than the average rental in San Mateo, providing extra space and capability for groups or road trips at a reasonable price.

Van rentals in San Mateo typically cost around $93 per day. The best time to book is April, when prices average $55 per day which is about 41% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 25% more expensive than the average rental in San Mateo, but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.

Pickup truck rentals in San Mateo typically cost around $72 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average $29 per day which is about 60% less than the yearly average. Pickup trucks are typically 3% more expensive than the average rental in San Mateo, ideal for hauling gear or outdoor adventures.

Luxury car rentals in San Mateo typically cost around $81 per day. The best time to book is July, when prices average $58 per day which is about 29% less than the yearly average. Luxury cars are typically 14% more expensive than the average rental in San Mateo, but deliver premium comfort and style for special occasions.

Convertible rentals in San Mateo typically cost around $148 per day. The best time to book is October, when prices average $37 per day which is about 75% less than the yearly average. Convertibles are typically 53% more expensive than the average rental in San Mateo, perfect for scenic drives and warm-weather destinations.

Most popular agency	Most popular car type	Average price	Good deal
Thrifty	Small	$45/day	$34/day

There are multiple reasons as to why you should consider renting a car in one of the car rentals in San Mateo, such as maximum flexibility when exploring the city, as well as providing an ideal atmosphere for tourists who want to get a feel of the culture. There are a few major airports located not far from San Mateo, such as Oakland International Airport (OAK), which is around 12.4 miles away, and the San Jose International Airport (SJC), approximately 25.8 miles, which is not a long drive when using a personal vehicle. Some popular tourist attractions further from the city center include Bair Island, whose habitats have multiple diverse ecosystems, and is located between San Mateo to the north and Palo Alto to the south.
The closest airport to San Mateo is San Francisco International Airport (SFO) which is 4.7 miles away and has several car rentals on-site, such as Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, NU Car, Avis, and State Van Rental. The agencies can be found by following the signs to the baggage claim area, then following the airport signs to the Air Train, and boarding the Blue Line train to the Rental Car Center, which is approximately 10min away. The Oakland International Airport also has on-site rentals that can be reached by following the signs to the baggage claim area, then heading to the common Rental Car Shuttle Bus which takes you to the rental car facility. Off-site San Mateo car rentals can be easily accessed using one of the multiple shuttle services or cabs.
Like many roads in the Bay Area, you are bound to find a few traffic violators when driving in San Mateo. Drivers are warned to be cautious of jaywalkers who can hop on busy roads without warning, especially during rush hours. San Mateo is also filled with several cyclists, therefore you are advised to drive prudently, especially near trails.
Typical rush hour in San Mateo, like many counties in the Bay Area region, starts at about 7am to 9am, then picks back up between 4pm to 6pm when people are heading home from work, with individuals spending an average of about 40-60min on the road. Commute times are likely to be extended on days which special events or festivals are being held in the city. It is recommended that visitors choose car rentals in San Mateo with navigation systems, to aid when moving on unfamiliar roads.
When driving cheap car rentals in San Mateo, always remember to operate on your right and pass on the left. The San Mateo driving laws allow you to pass on the right when driving on an open highway marked for two or more lanes in your direction. The streets of San Mateo are relatively narrow. Therefore, if you are driving on a steep road and you meet with a vehicle going uphill, you are to yield to that vehicle and backup.
When driving a San Mateo car rental on a narrow mountain road, always remember to keep right as much as possible. Moreover, if your visibility is less than 200 feet, always drive while sounding your horn to warn oncoming traffic and other road users. Visibility is quite limited at night. Thus, always turn on your headlights thirty minutes before sunrise or after sunset. If the weather conditions get harsh, turn on your low-beam headlights and windshield wipers during the day or night.
Making a U-turn in San Mateo is restricted to only four scenarios. When legal and safe, you can make a U-turn with San Mateo car rentals across a double yellow line. If you are in a residential district, you can turn your cheap San Mateo car rental when no vehicles are approaching you within 200 feet or when there is a signal, light, or traffic sign protecting you from oncoming traffic. Be extremely cautious when making a U-turn and avoid any distractions in the car while driving. This includes using your phone while driving. San Mateo driving laws attract hefty fines. For example, if you are on your phone in cheap car rentals in San Mateo for about 10 to fifteen minutes while driving can get you a distracted driving ticket that is about $120.
25% of our users found rental cars in San Mateo for $34 or less
Small rental cars in San Mateo are around 49% cheaper than other car types, on average

What type of car is recommended for driving in San Mateo?
For small groups of people, such as couples or solo travelers, it is more convenient to choose small compact vehicles or convertibles while cruising through California, while larger SUVs are better options for larger groups and are more comfortable when touring the plains of San Mateo.
What’s the speed limit in San Mateo?
The speed limit on most residential roads is 25mph unless otherwise posted. The San Mateo Bridge is set at 65mph, while highways have multiple test areas marked 55mph. School zones have a speed limit of 25mph when driving within 500-1000 feet while children are outside or crossing the street.
Where are the best places to park in San Mateo?
There are several parking options available in San Mateo, for both flash parking and long-term parking. All parking facilities offer free parking on Sundays, holidays and after 6pm every day. The Central garage offers 3h and 10h parking spaces, which charge at around $1.25 per hour, Main Street Garage costs approximately $0.75 per hour, Kinko’s Lot charge around $0.25 per hour while South Railroad Ave, Tennis Court Garage, and Transit Center Garage all charge about $0.75 per hour.
How much does it cost to rent a car in San Mateo?
On average a rental car in San Mateo costs $45 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 Mateo found in the last 2 weeks is $45.
Which car rental companies are at San Francisco airport (SFO)?
Car rental companies onsite at San Francisco airport include National and Avis.
Which car rental companies will pick you up at San Francisco airport (SFO)?
Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from San Francisco airport to off-airport locations include National, and Avis.
How can I find car rentals near me in San Mateo?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does a Small car rental cost in San Mateo?
A Small car rental in San Mateo costs $55 per day, on average.
How much does a Medium car rental cost in San Mateo?
A Medium car rental in San Mateo costs $87 per day, on average.
How much does a Large car rental cost in San Mateo?
A Large car rental in San Mateo costs $37 per day, on average.
Should I get insurance when renting a car in San Mateo?
Most car rental providers in San Mateo 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 Mateo, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in San Mateo?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 1 car rental agencies in San Mateo.
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in San Mateo?
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 Mateo?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in San Mateo so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
Can I turn left or right at a red light in San Mateo?
The driving laws in San Mateo only allow you to turn right at a red light if there are no signs prohibiting you. On the other hand, you can only make a left turn at a red light when you are moving from a one-way street to another.
How much is a speeding ticket in San Mateo?
A first-time offender can get fined a base fine of 35 dollars. However, the ticket can cost about $710, depending on your excess speed limit. Additionally, if you are assigned demerits on your license, they will stay on your record for three to seven years.

State Van Rental

8.5

Very good

One location in San Mateo

Locations in San Mateo

1288 Old Bayshore Hwy

+1 888 315 6888

Monday	08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday	08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday	08:00 - 18:00
Thursday	08:00 - 18:00
Friday	08:00 - 18:00
Saturday	08:00 - 18:00
Sunday	08:00 - 18:00

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

7.7

Good

2 locations in San Mateo

Locations in San Mateo

477 East Hillsdale Blvd

+1 650 570 6677

Monday	08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday	08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday	08:00 - 17:00
Thursday	08:00 - 17:00
Friday	08:00 - 17:00
Saturday
Sunday

923a South Claremont

+1 650 570 6677

Opening times not available

Budget

6.1

Okay

One location in San Mateo

Locations in San Mateo

1133 Chess Drive

+1 650 287 2680

Monday	08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday	08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday	08:00 - 17:00
Thursday	08:00 - 17:00
Friday	08:00 - 17:00
Saturday	08:00 - 12:00
Sunday	08:00 - 12:00

Hertz

5.9

Fair

One location in San Mateo

Locations in San Mateo

1333 Old Bayshore Highway

+1 650 579 7783

Monday	07:30 - 12:0013:00 - 16:30
Tuesday	13:00 - 16:3007:30 - 12:00
Wednesday	07:30 - 12:0013:00 - 16:30
Thursday	07:30 - 12:0013:00 - 16:30
Friday	13:00 - 16:3007:30 - 12:00
Saturday	09:00 - 12:00

Filters

No reviews available

Payless

5.0

Fair

One location in San Mateo

from$32/day

Locations in San Mateo

1409 Rollins Road

+1 602 681 9589

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Avis

No score available yet

One location in San Mateo

Locations in San Mateo

1133 Chess Drive

+1 650 287 2677

Monday	08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday	08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday	08:00 - 17:00
Thursday	08:00 - 17:00
Friday	08:00 - 17:00
Saturday	08:00 - 12:00
Sunday	08:00 - 12:00

Filters

Reviews

4.0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Oct 2024

Intermediate

The vehicle had a bad smell and multiple software issues

Go Fun Rental

No score available yet

One location in San Mateo

Locations in San Mateo

1350 Old Bayshore Hwy

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

NU Car

No score available yet

One location in San Mateo

Locations in San Mateo

1409 Rollins Road

+1 650 651 7145

Monday	08:00 - 22:00
Tuesday	08:00 - 22:00
Wednesday	08:00 - 22:00
Thursday	08:00 - 22:00
Friday	08:00 - 22:00
Saturday	08:00 - 22:00
Sunday	08:00 - 22:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Kim, Oct 2023

Minivan

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Oct 2023

Economy

Aweful

8.0 Very good

Ari, Jun 2023

Full-size

Very fast check-in and check-out. The rental car advertised was an Altima, but the car rented was a Malibu which is not as nice.

TravelCar

No score available yet

One location in San Mateo

Locations in San Mateo

1288 Old Bayshore Hwy

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

More options for your car rental in San Mateo

Add a flight or hotel

Agencies

Agency airport

Airports

Car brands

Car types

Large capacity

Other destinations

Complete your trip to San Mateo

Flights to San Mateo

Hotels in San Mateo

One-way car rentals

Long-term car rentals

Pick-up location	San Mateo
Car types	Small, Medium, Large, SUV, Luxury, Van
Rental locations	2
Airport locations	0

San Mateo car rentals from $27/day

Cheap car rentals in San Mateo

KAYAK’s insights & trends for San Mateo car rentals

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

What is the most popular rental car in San Mateo?

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

What rental car company in San Mateo has the most locations?

San Mateo car rental price comparison by vehicle type

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good to know

Most popular agency

Most popular car type

Average price

Good deal

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

FAQs about renting a car in San Mateo

San Mateo car rental reviews and directory

Car rental locations in or near San Mateo

More options for your car rental in San Mateo

Complete your trip to San Mateo

Car rentals from popular agencies in San Mateo

Car rentals from popular agencies at San Mateo airports

Car rental at airports serving San Mateo

Popular car brands to rent in San Mateo

Popular rental types in San Mateo

Large capacity rentals in San Mateo

Car rental in other popular destinations

San Mateo car rental information