$50 Car Rental Iowa City, IA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Iowa City

Renting a car in Iowa City offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for travelers interested in cultural, city-themed, or outdoor experiences. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Iowa City Public Library and the Old Capitol Museum, both located in the heart of Iowa City. Additionally, the historic Iowa Old Capitol Building is also nearby, making it convenient to immerse yourself in the local culture.

A rental car allows you to venture to nearby destinations like Coralville, which is only 3 miles away and features the University of Iowa - Oakdale Campus and the Johnson County Historical Society. Another option is the Iowa River Landing neighborhood, just 2 miles from Iowa City, where you can find the same cultural highlights that Iowa City offers. For families or those traveling with luggage, the convenience of managing your belongings easily makes a rental car a practical choice. Overall, having your own vehicle enhances your ability to explore and enjoy the diverse attractions in and around Iowa City seamlessly.

Most popular car rentals in Iowa City

• Fullsize: This option accommodates 5 travelers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. It is ideal for families or groups looking for comfort and ample luggage space while exploring the attractions in Iowa City at their own pace.
• Midsize: Perfect for couples or families, the midsize car can seat 5 travelers with room for up to 3 large suitcases. This car type strikes a balance between space and maneuverability, making it a popular choice for those wanting to travel comfortably without sacrificing convenience.
• Economy: This option is suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small families, accommodating 5 travelers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. The economy car is a practical choice for those seeking flexibility and efficiency while navigating Iowa City and its surroundings.

Top rated car suppliers in Iowa City

• Enterprise: Known for its friendly service, Enterprise has a rental location in Iowa City that offers travelers the convenience they need. Most booked vehicles include Midsize and Premium SUVs, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the area with comfort and style. Renting from Enterprise allows you to manage your itinerary with ease, ensuring a pleasant journey in and around Iowa City.
• Hertz: With a rental location in Iowa City, Hertz is another top choice for car rentals. Travelers frequently book Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, providing ample space for luggage and passengers alike. Hertz's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenient service makes it a reliable option for those wanting to explore Iowa City and its surroundings at their own pace.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental also has a location in Iowa City, catering to travelers seeking Midsize and Fullsize vehicles. With a focus on value and convenience, Thrifty provides an excellent option for those looking to enjoy the freedom of a rental car while discovering the attractions in and around Iowa City. Their streamlined process ensures you can get on the road quickly and start your adventure.

Where to stay in and around Iowa City

• Coralville: Located 3 miles away from Iowa City, Coralville offers a city-themed experience perfect for families and business travelers. Enjoy attractions like the University of Iowa - Oakdale Campus and Johnson County Historical Society, both great for educational explorations. Don't miss the arena entertainment facility and shopping centers, along with local dining options including wineries and distilleries.
• North Liberty: Situated 7 miles from Iowa City, North Liberty is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes. Key highlights include Broadmor Pond and Swan Lake, which are perfect for family outings and romantic getaways. Recreational areas and golf courses make this a great spot for active travelers. Explore local food and drink options at nearby wineries and distilleries.
• University Heights: This neighborhood, located around Iowa City, attracts visitors interested in sports and cultural experiences. Discover the Iowa City Public Library and the Old Capitol Museum, both excellent for family and culture vacations. With its proximity to modern college university facilities and sports stadiums, University Heights provides a vibrant atmosphere complemented by nearby winery options for relaxation.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Iowa City

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your travel date. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a nice balance of affordability, 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 an option. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges, which is often the most economical choice. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should any unforeseen events arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Iowa City

The best value period to rent a car in and around Iowa City is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. January and April also offer moderate pricing with slightly low demand, making them attractive options. However, July stands out as the most expensive month, coinciding with high demand. June and August follow closely, with slightly high prices and demand, indicating a busy time for rentals as summer peaks.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	21.6°F (-5.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
February	24.3°F (-4.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	61.5°F (16.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
June	71.4°F (21.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.2°F (22.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	66.7°F (19.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	40.1°F (4.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	29.5°F (-1.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Iowa City

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Iowa City

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Iowa City. 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 Iowa City

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $50.

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.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

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

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals