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Columbia car rentals from $41/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 Columbia with a pick-up date of 12/19 and drop-off date of 12/27. 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 Columbia

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates.
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Mazda Mazda2 car
Mazda Mazda2
or similar SMALL
2
2
4-5
$42/day
Kia Soul car
Kia Soul
or similar SMALL
4
2
2/4
$48/day
Class Intermediate Car car
Class Intermediate Car
or similar MEDIUM
5
3
4-5
$41/day
Toyota Corolla car
Toyota Corolla
or similar MEDIUM
5
3
2/4
$45/day
Hyundai Azera car
Hyundai Azera
or similar LARGE
5
2
4-5
$44/day
Dodge Grand Caravan car
Dodge Grand Caravan
or similar VAN
5
5
4-5
$68/day
Toyota Highlander car
Toyota Highlander
or similar SUV
5
2
4-5
$70/day
Chrysler 300 car
Chrysler 300
or similar LUXURY
5
5
4-5
$62/day
Ford Mustang Convertible car
Ford Mustang Convertible
or similar CONVERTIBLE
5
3
2/4
$64/day
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited car
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
or similar SUV
5
2
2/4
$45/day
Nissan Rogue car
Nissan Rogue
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$53/day
Chevrolet Equinox car
Chevrolet Equinox
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$55/day
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Columbia

  • Columbia car rentals are undoubtedly the most convenient means of transport for travelers who want to explore different destinations in the city. Although public busses are a cheaper transport option, they suffer one major drawback of fixed routes and departure schedules. Car rentals in Columbia come in handy for travelers who want to move around with their own departure schedule and along the routes that they consider most appropriate. Consider visiting Lake Elkhorn Park with your rental car and have an exciting time outdoors.
  • There are several important roads that are crucial for getting around the city in cheap car rentals in Columbia. They include Columbia Pike (Route 29), which is a major north-south route that passes through Columbia and links the city to other areas of Maryland and Washington, D.C.; Little Patuxent Parkway is a major east-west road that runs through the center of Columbia and is home to several significant businesses and attractions. Broken Land Parkway, which connects several residential neighborhoods of Columbia with a number of shopping complexes and recreational amenities, can get congested during rush hour, so it's advisable to plan ahead and use a GPS or navigation app to avoid the route during these periods.
  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport is the closest airport to Columbia, MD, and the main entry point to the city for the international traveler. All the four car rentals in Columbia, including Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget, are located at 7432 New Ridge Rd. Courtesy shuttles are available at the airport to ferry travelers to this car rental location from the Main Terminal of the airport.
  • Maintaining a fully charged and ready electric vehicle is easy in Columbia, MD. With over 100 public charging station ports including Level 2 and Level 3 stations, finding a place to power up is a breeze. The Merriweather District has 40 Level 2 EV charging stations on floors 2 and 3, while the downtown area has 40 charging ports.  Even better, some charging stations are accessible to taxpayers at no cost, so whether you're from Columbia or are just visiting, you can charge up with confidence and take advantage of everything the city has to offer.
  • Columbia, MD has several one-way streets, especially in the downtown area. To avoid getting lost or traveling in the wrong direction, it's crucial to pay strict attention to road signs and markers. These one-way streets include Lake Kittamaqundi Way, which runs along the lake's eastern shore and is one-way in both directions, Banneker Road, which has a section that is only one-way near the Banneker Community Center, and Twin Rivers Road, which has one-way sections close to the intersection with Oakland Mills Road.
  • When you are driving your rental car in Columbia’s city center, you should watch out for pedestrians, who commonly cross the road without checking on oncoming vehicles. Many of them do not pay to restrict themselves to zebra crossing lines. If it is your first time to Columbia, it is good to maintain lower speeds and be careful when navigating intersections. The intersection of Thunder Hill Road, Oakland Mills Road, Tamar Drive, and Dobbin Road is quite challenging to navigate. Consider customizing the GPS app on your rental car to be able to navigate various roads in the city with ease.
  • The convenience of using car rentals in Columbia slowly fades away between 7:30 am, and 9:30 am when the traffic slows down. It is difficult to drive in the city during this time due to the heavy traffic on most of the roads. The same situation replicates in the evening, from 4 pm to 6:30 pm, the time when people are leaving work. If possible, avoid using Oakland Mills Road because it experiences the heaviest traffic during this period.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in Columbia for $41 or less
  • Book your rental car in Columbia at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Premium rental cars in Columbia are around 35% more expensive than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in Columbia

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

    On average a rental car in Columbia costs $51 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 Columbia found in the last 2 weeks is $34.

  • What is the cheapest car rental company in Columbia?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Avis ($48/day) and Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($53/day).

  • How much is gas price in Columbia?

    The average gas price in Columbia is $3.70 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $44 and $59, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular rental car in Columbia?

    Premium (Chrysler Pacifica or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Columbia.

  • Which car rental companies are at Baltimore/Washington airport (BWI)?

    The only car rental company onsite at Baltimore/Washington airport is Hertz.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at Baltimore/Washington airport (BWI)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Baltimore/Washington airport to off-airport locations include Hertz, NextCar, Budget, Thrifty, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Dollar, Avis, Alamo, and National.

  • How can I find car rentals near me in Columbia?

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

  • How much does a Premium car rental cost in Columbia?

    A Premium car rental in Columbia costs $94 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Full Size car rental cost in Columbia?

    A Full Size car rental in Columbia costs $149 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Special car rental cost in Columbia?

    A Special car rental in Columbia costs $45 per day, on average.

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

    On average a rental car in Columbia costs $357 per week ($51 per day).

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

    On average a rental car in Columbia costs $1,529 per month ($51 per day).

  • Should I get insurance when renting a car in Columbia?

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

  • How many car agencies are operating in Columbia?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 4 car rental agencies in Columbia.

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

    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 Columbia?

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

    If you are traveling along in Columbia, renting an economy car, which has a smaller capacity and is affordable, will be a good thing to do. However, if you are coming with your family, colleagues or friends to the city, consider renting an intermediate or compact car. The intermediate car has more passenger capacity, being able to accommodate up to 7 adults. It is a suitable car type for travelers coming to Columbia with their kids and having to move around the city with more baggage. If you intend to visit off-road destinations, an intermediate SUV will also be a good option for you.

  • What road trips can I take from Columbia, MD?

    There are plenty of destinations you can visit in your Columbia car rentals.  If you're looking for a beach getaway, Virginia Beach and Ocean City are both around a three-hour drive away from Columbia. Consider incorporating some unique, off-the-beaten-path places and stops to the itinerary.

  • What’s the speed limit in Columbia?

    Stay away from the trouble of Columbia traffic police by adhering to the speed limits when driving in different parts of the city. If you are driving your rental car in the business and residential districts, you have to maintain a speed limit of 25 mph. On other roads, unless indicated otherwise, you have to adhere to the speed limit of between 55 mph and 65 mph. The speed limit is at the highest, 70 mph if you are driving your car on the interstate freeway. Speed cameras are available on all roads that front schools.

  • What is the age limit to rent a car in Columbia, MD?

    Child seat rules in Columbia require children under eight to buckle up in a safety or booster seat that's appropriate for their size. Children under the age of 13 should always ride in the backseat of the vehicle. It is best to double-check manufacturer guidelines when installing the car set in cheap car rentals in Columbia to ensure that all components are safely put.  

  • Where are the best places to park in Columbia?

    Columbia has several public and private parking lots, which eliminate any fear of missing a place to park your rental car. From Washington Street, you can park your car conveniently at Parklet, which is about 0.2 miles from the city center. City Parking at The Hub located along Sumter Street and Finlay Park Viewpoint along Laurel Street are other popular places you can park your rental car at a pocket-friendly rate. Additionally, if you are staying at any of the hotels in Columbia, you park your rental car at no cost.

Columbia 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.

Avis

Best rated

Cleanliness

8.0

Comfort

6.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.3

Value for money

6.6

2 locations in Columbia

Show locations

Locations in Columbia

10020 Baltimore Natl Pike

+1 410 461 3127

Monday08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 16:00
Thursday08:00 - 16:00
Friday08:00 - 16:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00
Sunday09:00 - 13:00

7290 Cradlerock Way Suite A

+1 443 259 0219

Monday08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 16:00
Thursday08:00 - 16:00
Friday08:00 - 16:00
Saturday08:00 - 16:00
Sunday09:00 - 13:00

Filters

Reviews

8.0 Very good

Courtland, May 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff was fine and courteous.

Cons:

The Hyundai Tucson I rented was lacking in overall performance. I think they should consider to use another brand of automobile to rent.

2.0 Poor

Mike, Jul 2023

Pickup truck

KAYAK
They didn’t have any pickup trucks but still took my reservation, causing me wasted time and forcing me to have to find another option.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Mar 2022

KAYAK
Excellent service

1 out of 1

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Cleanliness

8.0

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

2.0

Value for money

8.0

4 locations in Columbia

Show locations

Locations in Columbia

10270 Baltimore National Pike

+1 410 480 9664

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

12186 Clarksville Pike

+1 443 535 0067

Monday08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 16:00
Thursday08:00 - 16:00
Friday08:00 - 16:00
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

7351 Assateague Dr Ste 50

+1 410 799 0975

Monday07:30 - 17:00
Tuesday07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday07:30 - 17:00
Thursday07:30 - 17:00
Friday07:30 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

8916 Mcgaw Ct Ste 1a

+1 410 290 7355

Monday07:30 - 17:00
Tuesday07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday07:30 - 17:00
Thursday07:30 - 17:00
Friday07:30 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Nov 2023

Minivan

KAYAK
We had reservations for 8:00 am and arrived at Enterprise at 7:30 am. We were told there was a recall on the minivans we rented and they had to bring 2 more from another site. When I asked " If you knew about the recall, why didn't you get the new vans the here last night "? I was told "We found out about the recall at 4:30 the previous night". Then they said our reservations were for 8:30 am. We told them it was for 8:00 am and we confirmed the time the previous day. They had no answer. We didn't get on the road until about 9:00. It was a stressful time because we were 4 families traveling to Arkansas to see my wife's terminally sick father.

1 out of 1

Hertz

6.2

Okay

Cheapest deal
Most popular

One location in Columbia

Show locations

Locations in Columbia

6440 Dobbin Center Way

+1 410 740 7263

Monday08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 16:00
Thursday08:00 - 16:00
Friday08:00 - 16:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00

Filters

No reviews available

Budget

No score available yet

3 locations in Columbia

Show locations

Locations in Columbia

10020 Baltimore Natl Pike

+1 410 461 2760

Monday08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 16:00
Thursday08:00 - 16:00
Friday08:00 - 16:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00
Sunday09:00 - 13:00

6475 Washington Boulevard

+1 443 492 6462

Monday08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 16:00
Thursday08:00 - 16:00
Friday08:00 - 16:00
Saturday08:00 - 16:00

7290 Cradlerock Way Suite A

+1 410 312 5198

Monday08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 16:00
Thursday08:00 - 16:00
Friday08:00 - 16:00
Saturday08:00 - 16:00
Sunday09:00 - 13:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Roger, Jan 2022

KAYAK
Great service. Very personable employee.

1 out of 1

9 travelers who rented a car in Columbia gave the car agency they used an average rating of 6.2

Car rental locations in or near Columbia

Good to know

Most popular agency

Hertz

Most popular car type

Premium

Average price

$51/day

Good deal

$41/day

When to book a rental car in Columbia

Average daily price per month
Rental car prices as pick-up date approaches

Columbia car rental information

Pick-up locationColumbia
Car typesCompact, Convertible, Economy, Full-size, Full-size SUV, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Luxury, Minivan, Open air all terrain, Standard, Standard SUV
Rental locations4
Airport locations0
Popular agenciesGetaround, Turo, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Avis