$36 Car Rental Syracuse, NY

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Syracuse

Renting a car in Syracuse offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the New York State Fairgrounds and Armory Square, both conveniently located within the city. For outdoor enthusiasts and families, Onondaga Lake Park, just 7 miles away, provides a perfect spot for recreation and relaxation. Additionally, nearby cities like Liverpool, 5 miles away, and East Syracuse, 4 miles away, offer more opportunities for exploration, including Green Lakes State Park and the Museum of Science and Technology. Having a car allows you to manage your luggage effortlessly and make spontaneous travel plans, whether you're heading to a family-friendly event or discovering urban experiences. The convenience of a rental car makes it easy to navigate between attractions, ensuring that you can maximize your time in the area. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or seeking outdoor experiences, renting a car in Syracuse enhances your visit, making it enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in Syracuse

• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is a popular choice for travelers in Syracuse, accommodating up to 5 individuals and providing space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for couples, families, or groups looking for a vehicle that offers both comfort and practicality. With a Standard SUV, you can easily navigate the local attractions while ensuring everyone has enough room for their luggage.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. It comfortably fits 5 travelers and has room for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it perfect for families, couples, or small groups who require extra cargo capacity without sacrificing the maneuverability that makes exploring Syracuse enjoyable. Choosing a Midsize SUV allows you to travel in comfort while accommodating all your gear.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize vehicle stands out as a versatile option for larger groups or families. It can accommodate 5 travelers and offers the flexibility of carrying either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This car type is particularly beneficial for those who need ample space for luggage and passengers alike. Whether you’re planning a longer trip or simply need extra room, the Fullsize offers the convenience needed for easy travel around Syracuse.

Top rated car suppliers in Syracuse

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice for travelers in Syracuse, offering a rental location in the area. Customers often opt for Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, which provide a great balance of space and fuel efficiency. Hertz is known for its reliable vehicles and straightforward rental process, making it an excellent option for those looking to explore Syracuse and its surroundings comfortably.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out with its single rental location in Syracuse, where it caters to a variety of customer needs. The most frequently booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, which are ideal for families or groups. Travelers appreciate Enterprise for its friendly service and flexible rental terms, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience while discovering the attractions in and around Syracuse.
• Budget: Budget also offers a rental location in Syracuse, providing travelers with convenient access to their fleet. Popular choices among customers include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, which offer ample room and comfort for any journey. Budget is recognized for its competitive pricing and straightforward rental process, making it a solid option for those looking to explore the region without breaking the bank.

Where to stay around Syracuse

• Liverpool: Located 5 miles from Syracuse, Liverpool is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visit Onondaga Lake Park for a scenic urban park experience or the New York State Fairgrounds for family-friendly events. For a taste of local culture, explore Armory Square, a modern square with dining options. Enjoy nearby wineries and restaurants that enhance the city-themed atmosphere.
• East Syracuse: East Syracuse, situated 4 miles from Syracuse, offers a blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions. Green Lakes State Park is perfect for scenic adventures, while the Museum of Science and Technology provides educational fun for all ages. Armory Square is also accessible, making it a great spot for dining and leisure.
• North Syracuse: North Syracuse is 6 miles away from Syracuse and provides a family-oriented and outdoor-focused getaway. Key attractions include the New York State Fairgrounds, great for outdoor events, and the Museum of Science and Technology for cultural exploration. Armory Square remains a local highlight, complemented by various dining and winery options nearby.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Syracuse

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid balance of 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 premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge when picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extended road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent 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 Syracuse

The best time to rent a car in and around Syracuse is January, when both prices and demand are slightly low, offering great value. February and March also present reasonable options, with average prices and continued low demand. As the year progresses, June through August see a rise in both prices and demand, making them the most expensive months for rentals. Meanwhile, October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	24.1°F (-4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	25.3°F (-3.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	33.4°F (0.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	57.6°F (14.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	62.6°F (17.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	39.7°F (4.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	31.5°F (-0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Car rental prices in Syracuse

Car rental prices in Syracuse, NY start around $36* per day in 2026. The cost of vehicle rental in Syracuse is influenced by several factors, such as the car itself, the rental period, and the time of year. Syracuse is known as a college town, so prices may increase around the fall as many students return to campus, or in spring when families and friends flock to the city to celebrate graduation. By booking early with Expedia, you can find some of the best car rental deals in Syracuse and enjoy exploring Downtown Syracuse, Westside, and more.

Finding some of the best deals for cheap car rentals in Syracuse

If you're looking for cheap rental cars in Syracuse, use Expedia search filters to find great offers. Filter by "Great deal" to show some of the lowest available prices for a Syracuse rental car. If you're certain nothing stands in the way between you and your next trip to Syracuse, paying in advance can net you cheaper car rental prices compared to paying later. The season also plays a role: by visiting Syracuse in the winter months when fewer tourists are heading to the city and nearby Lake Ontario and Lake Onondaga, you may find even better Expedia car rental deals. Customers who have a discount code or coupon can filter to see offers from the participating rental car company, and AARP members can apply their exclusive rates to search results and at check-out.

Best car rental companies in Syracuse

There are plenty of reputable car rental companies in Syracuse to choose from. Use Expedia to compare offers from providers like Dollar Rent-A-Car, Alamo, Enterprise, and more. You can view the most highly recommended companies or filter your search by brand or location. While there's no best rental car company for everyone, finding the best car rental company in Syracuse for your needs is easy with Expedia.

Best places to rent a car in Syracuse

If you're flying directly into Syracuse, you probably want a car rental in Syracuse Hancock International Airport, located about five miles from the city's center. You'll also be able to find excellent airport car rental deals by picking up your car there. Those heading towards Syracuse University might prefer convenient pick-up and drop-off for their car rental in Westside, Syracuse. Expedia also allows you to view convenient pick-up and drop-off locations throughout Syracuse on a map or to filter by distance and location, so finding a car hire in Syracuse that's nearby is a breeze.

Syracuse car rental types

The best type of car rental in Syracuse depends on you: vacationers spending time in the great outdoors around Lake Ontario might prefer a truck or an SUV car rental, whereas a small economy car rental is great for getting around and parking downtown. If Syracuse is your base for a romantic getaway to nearby Niagara Falls, consider a luxury car rental in Syracuse to increase the unique ambiance of the trip. Whether you need all-wheel drive or are looking for rental cars in Syracuse to transport the whole family around, with Expedia you can filter your rental car search results to fit the adventure you have planned, while comparing prices, features, and payment options from different companies.

Advice on car rental in Syracuse as an American

For a successful car rental in Syracuse, keep in mind that you will need a valid driver's license and credit card with the same name – you usually can't rent a car without a credit card. While Americans can normally start driving around 16 years of age, to rent a car in Syracuse you'll need to be at least 21 years old. Another thing to bear in mind is that a surcharge is typically applied to drivers under the age of 25. You'll also need to consider the level of insurance you want, and if you need to take out additional insurance. You can visit the detail page of the Expedia car rental deals you find in Syracuse for more information and to view the full terms, conditions, and policies of each offer.

Benefits of booking a car rental in Syracuse with Expedia

By using Expedia's search to compare offers and find Syracuse car rental deals that fit your chosen criteria, you can find great offers around $36*. If you rent a car in Syracuse, you can drive yourself around the city to experience Syracuse like a local and have more opportunities to explore downtown and get out in nature. See the waterfalls of Pratt's Falls or Chittenango Falls State Park or go golfing at nearby courses before you sample the many dining and entertainment options in the Syracuse area. Expedia makes it easy to find a Syracuse car rental with flexible cancellation policies and payment options. If you have the option to pay at pick-up or to reserve and check-in for the car rental online, that information is visible in your Expedia search results to make decision-making easier.