$82 Car Rental Ballard, WA

These Ballard insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 17, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Ballard

Renting a car in Ballard offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the neighborhood and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed, making it an ideal choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Key attractions such as Shilshole Bay Marina, located right in Ballard, provide opportunities for adventure and beach experiences. Additionally, the iconic Space Needle and the Seattle Center, both just 4 miles away, are perfect for city-themed experiences that the whole family can enjoy. You can also venture into nearby neighborhoods, like Downtown Seattle, which is 5 miles away, or Loyal Heights, less than 1 mile from Ballard, both featuring attractions like Lake Union and the Seattle Waterfront. A rental car not only enhances convenience but also ensures that you can visit popular destinations without the constraints of public transport schedules, making your trip more enjoyable and hassle-free.

Most popular car rentals around Ballard

• Standard Pickup: This option accommodates up to 5 travelers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for adventure travelers, families, or small groups. With a Standard Pickup, you can comfortably manage your luggage while enjoying the flexibility to explore all that Ballard and its surroundings have to offer.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, the Compact car option also accommodates up to 5 travelers with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This choice is great for navigating the bustling streets of Ballard while keeping your travel costs efficient. Enjoy the ease of parking and maneuverability in this versatile vehicle.
• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV fits up to 5 travelers and offers room for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle provides a comfortable ride and ample space for both passengers and luggage, making it a fantastic choice for your travels around Ballard and beyond. Experience the convenience and comfort of an SUV as you explore at your own pace.

Top rated car suppliers around Ballard

• Budget: Located 3 miles away from Ballard, Budget is known for its friendly service and efficient operations, boasting an overall rating of 7.6 out of 10. Travelers appreciate the service as expected and short wait times, making it a convenient choice for those looking to explore the area. The most booked vehicles with Budget are Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, which offer great options for both space and budget-friendly travel.
• Enterprise: With 4 rental locations, the nearest Enterprise outlet is just 1 mile from Ballard, providing maximum convenience for travelers. Known for its friendly service, Enterprise is a popular choice among renters. The most booked vehicles include Midsize and Compact cars, perfect for navigating the city or heading out for day trips. This supplier is ideal for those who value accessibility and customer service.
• Hertz: Hertz has a rental location 4 miles from Ballard, offering a solid selection of vehicles for travelers. Although it has fewer locations than Enterprise, Hertz is known for providing Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, catering to diverse needs for those exploring the region. Their commitment to quality service ensures that renters can enjoy a smooth car rental experience during their stay.

Where to stay around Ballard

• Ballard: A vibrant neighborhood in Seattle, Ballard is known for its outdoor and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy local markets and recreational areas. With attractions like the nearby Seattle Waterfront and the Space Needle, you’ll find plenty to explore. Ballard also offers a variety of cafes and restaurants, making it a convenient base for your Seattle adventure.
• Bainbridge Island: Located 7 miles from Ballard, Bainbridge Island is ideal for those seeking outdoor and scenic experiences. This charming island features beautiful parks and public markets. Key points of interest include the Bainbridge Island Ferry Dock, which offers stunning views and adventure opportunities. The island is also home to wineries and restaurants, perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of exploration.
• Puget Sound: Just 6 miles from Ballard, Puget Sound is well-regarded for its outdoor and adventure offerings. The area is rich in natural beauty, with national parks and lakes nearby. Explore the Space Needle and Seattle Center during your stay. Puget Sound also features local wineries and breweries, providing excellent dining and drinking options to enhance your visit.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save money, utilize the 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 reserve your car well before your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure more favorable rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a great balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that situation.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it can be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep any extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Ballard

The best time to rent a car in and around Ballard is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. February follows closely, with average prices and demand still manageable. March also offers slightly low prices, making it a good option. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand. June through August see increased activity, making rentals pricier during that summer peak.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.3°F (4.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
March	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	67.1°F (19.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	67.5°F (19.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	44.2°F (6.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	39.2°F (4.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average