Santa Barbara car rental information
| Pick-up location | Santa Barbara |
|---|---|
| Car types | Compact, Economy, Full-size, Full-size SUV, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Luxury, Minivan, Premium, Standard, Standard SUV, Supplier choice |
| Rental locations | 13 |
| Airport locations | 7 |
| Popular agencies | Hertz, Turo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise Rent-A-Car |
Cheap car rentals in Santa Barbara
| Economy | $29/day |
| Compact | $29/day |
| Intermediate | $29/day |
| Standard | $30/day |
| Full-size | $38/day |
| Minivan | $57/day |
| Full-size SUV | $64/day |
| Premium | $53/day |
| Luxury | $59/day |
| Supplier choice | $30/day |
| Intermediate SUV | $34/day |
| Standard SUV | $43/day |
Top tips for renting a car in Santa Barbara
- Take advantage of cheap car rentals in Santa Barbara to save time and enjoy the flexibility of moving around the city at your own pace. Old Mission Santa Barbara, a 29-minute drive from the city center, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks you can conveniently visit by car. A rental car can also get you as far as the Stearns Wharf with its breathtaking harbor views and sandy beaches, about 10.09 miles from Santa Barbara Airport (SBA). Renting a car in Santa Barbara allows you to navigate the city conveniently, and we recommend booking through KAYAK.
- The Santa Barbara Airport SBA is located approximately 8 miles west of the city center. There are more than 12 cheap car rentals in Santa Barbara, including Alamo, Enterprise, Budget, Avis, Hertz, and National. Most Santa Barbara car rentals have pick-up and drop-off points at the Santa Barbara Airport. In addition, you can take a free airport shuttle from the city, which leaves the terminals every 15 minutes, pick up your rental car, and drive conveniently to your hotel or other destinations.
- Like other California cities, Santa Barbara is known for its busy streets and highways. If you're new to the town, driving through the heavy traffic can initially be disorienting. Thankfully, most Santa Barbara rental cars can be fitted with navigation systems to help you drive safely and reach other destinations without running into traffic problems. Jaywalking is another common challenge in Santa Barbara streets, and cyclists don't always follow the traffic signals, so it's advisable to drive cautiously and always double-check before making a turn.
- A rental car is the most comfortable and practical way to explore not only the city of Santa Barbara, but also nearby Los Angeles and other major destinations along the Californian coast. A car allows you to explore the city’s attractions at your own pace, including the Santa Barbara Harbor and the Maritime Museum. Los Angeles is a two-hour drive away, while San Francisco is five hours away.
- All of the big car rental companies, including Alamo, Avis, and Hertz, can be found at Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), which is about 7 miles west of the city center. The rental car counters are located in the Rental Car Building, which is right next to the airport terminal. Simply exit the terminal, go right, and follow the RCB signs.
- Santa Barbara is at the base of the Santa Ynez Mountains, with some roads being quite hilly. Because it’s a colonial town, it still maintains some of its older characteristics, including narrow cobblestone streets with winding turns. If you’re not used to that type of driving, it’s best to park the car in one of the many lots and explore the Old Town by foot.
- Traffic jams in California are a given, but Santa Barbara is easier to navigate. Traffic gets worse in the morning on the 101 heading north to Santa Barbara from other towns such as Carpinteria and Ventura, and on the opposite direction in the evening. Avoid driving within the rush hour periods, between 6:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., and then again between 4 and 7 p.m.
- 25% of our users found rental cars in Santa Barbara for $48 or less
- Book your rental car in Santa Barbara at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Economy rental cars in Santa Barbara are around 62% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Santa Barbara
What type of car is recommended for driving in Santa Barbara?
A hybrid car is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while driving through Santa Barbara, but a convertible is a great option when cruising along the coast, especially in the summer, as you can drop the top and enjoy some scenic views. If you're going on a road trip with family or friends, a minivan offers more comfort and space for all the passengers.
What’s the speed limit in Santa Barbara?
The speed limit in Californian cities is usually 25 mph, unless the posted signs say otherwise, particularly in school zones and other residential areas. Two-lane highways have a speed limit of 55 mph, while most highways have a 65 mph limit. However, some highways allow drivers to go a maximum speed of 70 mph.
Where are the best places to park in Santa Barbara?
There are several parking lots in the downtown and waterfront areas. Downtown parking also provides access to State Street and its surroundings, the Old Town, and the Waterfront areas. Parking is paid between 7:30 a.m. and 11 p.m., Sunday to Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The first 75 minutes are free and the following hours have a $1.50 hourly rate.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Santa Barbara?
On average a rental car in Santa Barbara costs $59 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 Santa Barbara found in the last 2 weeks is $36.
How much is gas price in Santa Barbara?
The average gas price in Santa Barbara is $3.82 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $46 and $61, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Santa Barbara?
Economy (Ford Fiesta or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Santa Barbara.
How can I find car rentals near me in Santa Barbara?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does an Economy car rental cost in Santa Barbara?
An Economy car rental in Santa Barbara costs $35 per day, on average.
How much does a Compact car rental cost in Santa Barbara?
A Compact car rental in Santa Barbara costs $36 per day, on average.
How much does a Special car rental cost in Santa Barbara?
A Special car rental in Santa Barbara costs $37 per day, on average.
How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in Santa Barbara?
On average a rental car in Santa Barbara costs $410 per week ($59 per day).
How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in Santa Barbara?
On average a rental car in Santa Barbara costs $1,757 per month ($59 per day).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in Santa Barbara?
Most car rental providers in Santa Barbara offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Santa Barbara, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in Santa Barbara?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 7 car rental agencies in Santa Barbara.
Which car rental companies in Santa Barbara have updated their vehicle cleaning and safety policies because of Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Some car rental companies in Santa Barbara which have updated their car rental health and safety policies due to COVID-19 to make sure vehicles are clean and disinfected include Budget, Hertz and Alamo
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Santa Barbara?
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 Santa Barbara?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Santa Barbara so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
What's the speed limit in Santa Barbara?
The recommended speed limit in Santa Barbara is 35 to 55 mph. However, depending on location, it's safe to drive at 35 mph on city highways, but rural interstates allow up to 75 mph. Therefore, confirm and comply with the designated speed limits on the road signs.
What is the average gas price in Santa Barbara?
The average gas price in Santa Barbara is $5.89 per gallon. Conserve Fuel, Fuel Depot, and Exxon are a few examples of gas stations in Santa Barbara selling gas at a reasonable price. You can also fuel your car at various stations at the airport, but the prices may be higher.
Santa Barbara car rental reviews and directory
Budget
7.3
Good
169 reviewsCleanliness
7.5
Comfort
7.8
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.3
Value for money
7.2
2 locations in Santa Barbara
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Reviews
2.0 Poor
Oct 2022
2.0 Poor
Sep 2022
10.0 Wonderful
Sep 2022
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2021
Pros:
the staff was very friendly and helpful8.0 Very good
Apr 2021
Pros:
Pick up and Drop off were easyCons:
Was charged $100 for a tank of gas for a Corolla when the tank was already full10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2021
Pros:
I was surprised with an upgrade to a Ford Bronco, since my vehicle preference wasn’t available. I was in shock because I didn’t think Bronco’s were released yet. It felt like I won the lottery, and I honestly wish I didn’t have to give it back. My daughter also became attached to the Bronco, and she was sad to see it go :(Cons:
Experience was great. Thank you so much.Hertz
6.7
Okay
170 reviewsCleanliness
7.1
Comfort
7.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.7
Value for money
6.7
3 locations in Santa Barbara
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Reviews
6.0 Okay
Dec 2021
2.0 Poor
Dec 2021
2.0 Poor
Dec 2021
4.0 Mediocre
Dec 2021
2.0 Poor
Oct 2021
4.0 Mediocre
May 2021
Cons:
The car had not been cleaned. The customer service was lacking.Avis
8.3
Very good
40 reviewsCleanliness
9.0
Comfort
8.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.4
Value for money
8.0
2 locations in Santa Barbara
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Reviews
4.0 Mediocre
May 2021
Cons:
The staff at pickup in Santa Barbara used deceitful tactics to pressure us into paying for an upgrade.4.0 Mediocre
Jun 2020
Pros:
Staff Sue gave me a car that needed an oil change and didn’t apply insurance to vehicle. Then when I swopped the cars I needed to make a new contract That didn’t honor the daily rate and cut my trip by 2 daysCons:
Honesty and accountability of the staff8.4 Very good
Jun 2019
Pros:
Friendly and professional staff.Cons:
The rental car was not in the space on my card. No car was parked in that space. Luckily there was an attendant in the lot who approached me and found my car, and I did not have to return to the terminal.10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2019
Pros:
Accommodated special request2.4 Poor
Nov 2018
Cons:
I have lieved in SB for 40 years and have driven to the airport many times. I drove past the Avis return 2x before finding it. The parking area is very poorly lit at night and the sinage is terrible. There are no arrows, signs,etc as to where to return the keys, the car, etc. The staff at the Avis desk was most unhelpful. The attendant appeared lazy and like I was bothering her to return the keys. I had the impression I had really interrupted her evening and she had more important things to do than check me out ad take the keys back. Very poor expereince.10.0 Wonderful
Jun 2018
Pros:
Didn't have to wait in a long line for pickup or drop off. Car worked well.Alamo
8.1
Very good
55 reviewsCleanliness
7.8
Comfort
8.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.2
Value for money
8.2
One location in Santa Barbara
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Reviews
8.0 Very good
May 2021
Pros:
The woman who helped me with drop off was incredibly helpful2.0 Poor
May 2021
Cons:
They did not have my car available and said they tried to call me, but I never got a call. I needed a 12 person van, so it was not easy to find another one. Thankfully AVIS helped me out at the last minute!2.0 Poor
Dec 2020
Cons:
Vehicle that I reserved was not available when I went go pick up.10.0 Wonderful
Nov 2020
Cons:
I liked the small airport with car pick up right outside the terminal. Very convenient, quick, and simple. Would probably choose a slightly larger car than a Toyota Corolla for four adults.9.6 Wonderful
Aug 2020
Pros:
Staff was friendly and efficientCons:
Car was a little dirty inside.9.6 Wonderful
Jun 2020
Pros:
Easy, fast, and safe.Enterprise Rent-A-Car
7.7
Good
80 reviewsCleanliness
7.5
Comfort
7.6
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.7
Value for money
7.5
3 locations in Santa Barbara
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Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Nov 2020
Pros:
Very helpful staff, pick up and drop-offCons:
Nothing. Really appreciated the savings offered by using Kayak on the catastrophic coverage!8.0 Very good
Nov 2020
Pros:
Staff was really friendly and very accommodating. The pick up and drop off was fast and easy4.0 Mediocre
Oct 2020
Pros:
The staff was able to point me in the right direction after they recognized their mistake.2.0 Poor
Sep 2020
Pros:
A refund on the vehicle i never usedCons:
You guys couldve been more prepared with more vehicles6.8 Okay
Feb 2020
Pros:
Too busy and not organized very well. The workers I dealt with were friends though.9.6 Wonderful
Aug 2019
Pros:
Gentleman who helped me was professional, courteous and efficient.Cons:
Only thing that was a VERY MINOR problem was my lack of knowledge that the button to open gas tank cover was located on the car door (had not encountered this in other vehicles).National
2.0
Poor
3 reviewsCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
2.0
Value for money
2.0
One location in Santa Barbara
Sunnycars
No score available yet
One location in Santa Barbara
Car rental locations in or near Santa Barbara
When to book a rental car in Santa Barbara
Airports serving Santa Barbara
Popular rental types in Santa Barbara
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