Most car rental projects cost between $40.00 and $120 per day, with a typical price near $70.00. Prices vary by state and city, so the range below is a planning guide rather than a quote.
Typical car rental cost
$40.00 – $120
per day · typical $70.00
A general planning range, not a quotation.
Car rental cost breakdown
- Economy car$40.00 – $80.00typical $60.00
- SUV$80.00 – $150typical $110
- Luxury car$150 – $400typical $250
What Car Rentals costs
The daily rate covers the vehicle and basic insurance. Taxes, airport fees, and optional add-ons like GPS or child seats add $15–$50 daily. Prices spike during holidays and in tourist areas.
Costs by state
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Alberta
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- British Columbia
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Manitoba
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Brunswick
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Northwest Territories
- Nova Scotia
- Nunavut
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Ontario
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Prince Edward Island
- Quebec
- Rhode Island
- Saskatchewan
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
- Yukon
Frequently asked questions
Why do rental prices vary so much?
Demand, location (airport vs off-airport), season, and car class heavily affect rates. Airport fees and taxes can add 30% or more.
How can I save on car rentals?
Book early, compare off-airport locations, use membership discounts (AAA, Costco), and consider prepaid rates. Avoid buying fuel from the rental company.
Should I buy the rental company's insurance?
Often no, if your personal auto policy or credit card covers rental cars. Check your coverage before paying extra for CDW.