$41 Car Rental Santa Rosa, CA

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Santa Rosa

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top Car Deals in Santa Rosa

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Santa Rosa
View all cars
Lowest prices found within the past 21 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Santa Rosa car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Rosa

Renting a car in Santa Rosa gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and travelers seeking outdoor adventures or romantic scenery. You can visit key attractions such as the Sonoma County Fairgrounds, perfect for family experiences, and the Charles M. Schulz Museum for cultural insights. For those seeking adventure, the Petrified Forest offers an exciting outdoor experience.

A rental car also allows you to explore nearby destinations like Calistoga, located 12 miles away, known for the Old Faithful Geyser of California, and Rohnert Park, just 6 miles from Santa Rosa, featuring the Spreckels Performing Arts Center. Sebastopol, 7 miles away, offers attractions like Luther Burbank's Experiment Farm and Ragle Ranch Dog Park. With a rental car, you can enjoy the scenic routes and attractions in and around Santa Rosa without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Rosa

  • Midsize: This car type accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for couples and families. Its balance of space and comfort allows you to explore Santa Rosa at your own pace while ensuring you have ample room for luggage.
  • Economy: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small families, the economy car can fit up to 5 travelers and carry 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for those looking to navigate Santa Rosa efficiently while keeping costs low, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
  • Fullsize: With capacity for 5 travelers and space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize car is a fantastic choice for families and groups. It offers additional room for everyone and their belongings, allowing for a comfortable and enjoyable trip around Santa Rosa.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Rosa

  • Enterprise: With 2 rental locations in Santa Rosa, Enterprise is a top choice for travelers seeking flexibility. Known for its wide selection of vehicles, many customers prefer to book Midsize and Compact cars with this supplier. The convenience of having multiple locations makes it easy for you to pick up and return your rental, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace.
  • Avis: Also boasting 2 rental locations in the Santa Rosa area, Avis is popular among visitors looking for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles. Their well-regarded service and diverse fleet ensure that you can find the perfect car for your needs, making it a great option for exploring the beautiful surroundings of Santa Rosa.
  • Budget: With 1 rental location in Santa Rosa, Budget provides an excellent option for those looking for value. Many travelers opt for Midsize and Fullsize vehicles from Budget, which are ideal for both comfort and affordability. This supplier’s convenient location makes it easy to get on the road and start your adventure in and around Santa Rosa.

Where to stay around Santa Rosa

  • Calistoga: Located 12 miles from Santa Rosa, Calistoga is perfect for travelers seeking an outdoor and romantic experience. Enjoy wellness activities at local spas and resorts, and explore nearby attractions like the Old Faithful Geyser of California. Indulge in the area's renowned wineries and restaurants, making it an ideal choice for those looking to unwind amidst scenic beauty.
  • Windsor: Situated 9 miles away from Santa Rosa, Windsor offers picturesque scenery and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy golf at the Windsor Golf Club and relax along the Russian River. The town also features charming piazza squares and is home to the Pacific Coast Air Museum, making it a delightful destination for couples and nature lovers alike.
  • Rohnert Park: Just 6 miles from Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park combines city charm with outdoor experiences. Explore cultural attractions like the Charles M. Schulz Museum and enjoy performances at the Spreckels Performing Arts Center. With various wineries and restaurants nearby, this area is well-suited for those seeking a vibrant city-themed getaway with a touch of romance.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Santa Rosa

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Car rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your reservation well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically cost less to rent and are easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be suitable. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Santa Rosa

The best time to rent a car in and around Santa Rosa is January, when prices are slightly low and demand remains average. Following closely, April also offers good value with similar pricing and demand dynamics. Moving into the summer months, June through August see higher prices and increased demand, particularly in July, which tends to be the busiest month for rentals. As a result, August is typically the most expensive time to secure a car.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.0°F (12.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
May59.5°F (15.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
June65.5°F (18.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July67.3°F (19.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August67.5°F (19.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September66.6°F (19.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October61.3°F (16.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Santa Rosa

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Santa Rosa into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Santa Rosa and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Santa Rosa

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Santa Rosa. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Santa Rosa

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $41.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$41
 
Our second best deal of the day
$46
 
Our third best deal of the day
$48
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Santa Rosa?
You can find cheap car rentals in Santa Rosa from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's midsize 2/4 door. Dollar Rent A Car, Thrifty Car Rental, and Alamo Rent A Car offer competitive rates. Dollar offers options such as a midsize 2 or 4 door car starting from $11 a day, while Thrifty provides compact SUVs and compact 2 or 4 door cars also starting from $11 a day. Alamo also has midsize 2 or 4 door cars available from $11 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a car rental deal in Santa Rosa that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Santa Rosa.
What are the best luxury car companies in Santa Rosa?
For luxury car rental in Santa Rosa, you can find premium options through providers like Sixt, Alamo Rent A Car, and Enterprise. Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars starting from $16 a day, and standard elite SUVs from $21 a day. Alamo Rent A Car provides premium crossover vehicles from $30 a day and premium elite SUVs from $36 a day. Enterprise also offers options like standard convertibles starting from $42 a day. These companies provide vehicles that offer enhanced comfort and features for a more upscale travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Santa Rosa.
What are the best car rentals in Santa Rosa?
Car rentals in Santa Rosa offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, offering ease of driving. Families visiting Santa Rosa often prefer SUVs or minivans for their spaciousness and luggage capacity, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for city navigation and fuel efficiency. Choose a car type based on your passenger count, luggage requirements, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Santa Rosa.

What are the best car rentals in Santa Rosa for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Santa Rosa for solo travelers are typically economy and compact classes, which are small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace.
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $18 a day—this class fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, offering nimble handling on city streets and easy parking.
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day—this class also fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, providing a bit more room for luggage while remaining fuel-efficient.
Both options comfortably accommodate a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives or prefer a higher vantage point, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, available from $11 a day, for extra comfort and versatility. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Santa Rosa.

What are the best car rentals in Santa Rosa for couples?
The best car rentals in Santa Rosa for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two travelers.
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day—this class fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases, offering smooth cruising for two with ample luggage space.
  • Compact SUV, starting from $11 a day—this class fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, providing a higher ride and good visibility for day trips around the region.
Both options give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being difficult to park. For a special trip or scenic drives around Santa Rosa, consider a standard convertible, available from $42 a day, for an enhanced experience. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Santa Rosa.

What are the best car rentals in Santa Rosa for families?
The best car rentals in Santa Rosa for families are those with ample room for everyone and their gear.
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $12 a day—this class seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, making it suitable for families with car seats and strollers.
  • Fullsize SUV, starting from $32 a day—this class seats up to 6 people with space for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, ideal for larger families needing more cargo capacity.
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $17 a day—this class seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, perfect for bigger families or those with significant luggage.
SUVs and minivans provide the necessary space for the whole family, car seats, and luggage, ensuring a comfortable trip around Santa Rosa. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the July and September peak months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Santa Rosa.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Santa Rosa?
Yes, Santa Rosa offers electric and hybrid vehicle options from several rental companies. Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental both provide hybrid vehicles starting from $10 a day, and electric options also from $10 a day. Sixt offers hybrid vehicles from $10 a day and electric vehicles from $11 a day. Enterprise also has electric options available from $11 a day. These eco-friendly choices are widely available on Expedia. Booking electric vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead is advisable as demand can be high, and planning charging stops is recommended for trips extending beyond 200 miles.
What is the best time to book a car in Santa Rosa?
From February, prices for car rentals in Santa Rosa are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $11 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, and July and September are peak months when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup, so you can book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Santa Rosa?
Car rental suppliers in Santa Rosa include well-known companies such as Sixt, Enterprise, Dollar Rent A Car, Alamo Rent A Car, and Thrifty Car Rental. These providers offer a wide range of vehicles to suit various travel needs. For example, Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental offer economical options like midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $11 a day, which are great for city driving and fuel efficiency. Enterprise provides options like compact SUVs from $18 a day, offering more space and a higher ride for exploring. Alamo Rent A Car also has compact SUVs from $14 a day. Choosing a compact class is ideal for easy maneuvering and better mileage, while an SUV provides more space and stability for longer trips or if you have more luggage. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Santa Rosa.
What are good day trip destinations from Santa Rosa by rental car?
For memorable day trips from Santa Rosa, consider these destinations easily accessible by car rental in Santa Rosa:
  • Russian River: Located about 13 miles from Santa Rosa, the Russian River offers opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities, with a driving time of approximately 20 minutes. A midsize or standard car provides comfortable travel for couples or small families exploring the area.
  • Calistoga Hot Springs: Just 15 miles away, Calistoga Hot Springs is ideal for a relaxing getaway, taking about 30 minutes to reach. A comfortable fullsize car or a midsize SUV would enhance the experience for couples seeking comfort and space.
  • Point Reyes National Seashore: This stunning coastal area is about 34 miles from Santa Rosa, a scenic drive of approximately 1 hour. An SUV is highly recommended for families or groups, offering ample space for gear and comfortable navigation of the park's routes.
  • Healdsburg Wine and Food Pairing Guided Walking Tour: Healdsburg is a short drive from Santa Rosa, making it an excellent choice for a culinary day trip. A compact or midsize car is suitable for navigating the town and surrounding areas for this experience.
  • Sonoma Valley Small Group Winery Tour: Explore the renowned wineries of Sonoma Valley, also a short drive from Santa Rosa. A fullsize car or a standard SUV provides comfort and space for adult groups enjoying a winery tour.
When planning your car rental in Santa Rosa for these excursions, a midsize car starting from $12 a day or a compact car starting from $15 a day offers good value for solo travelers or couples. For families or those needing more space for luggage, consider a midsize SUV starting from $16 a day or a fullsize car starting from $15 a day. Always fuel up before heading out, and check the weather conditions for your chosen destination. Booking your car rental in Santa Rosa in advance can help secure car rental deals in Santa Rosa, ensuring you have the right vehicle for your adventure. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Santa Rosa.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Santa Rosa?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Santa Rosa. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Santa Rosa?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Santa Rosa?
Budget car rental in Santa Rosa can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $41. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Santa Rosa?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Santa Rosa. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Santa Rosa car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Santa Rosa?
To rent a car in Santa Rosa, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Rosa car rental?
If you need to cancel your Santa Rosa car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Santa Rosa with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia