$27 Car Rental Manhattan, NY

These Manhattan insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 1, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Manhattan

Renting a car in Manhattan offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the borough and its surroundings at their own pace. With a rental, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an appealing option for families, business travelers, and those seeking city-themed experiences. You can visit iconic attractions such as Times Square, Central Park, and Grand Central Terminal, all located within Manhattan. Additionally, the Upper West Side, less than 1 mile away, features these same attractions, while Lower Manhattan is home to the renowned Empire State Building and One World Trade Center. Driving allows you to navigate the bustling city easily, making it convenient to explore popular destinations in and around Manhattan, including the greater New York area. Whether you are taking your family on an outdoor adventure in Central Park or attending a business meeting near Grand Central Terminal, having a rental car enhances your overall experience by providing comfort and ease of movement throughout your trip.

Most popular car rentals in and around Manhattan

• Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This option provides ample space for passengers and luggage, making it a practical choice for those looking to explore Manhattan and nearby areas with comfort and convenience.
• Standard SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for couples, families, and groups. The standard SUV offers a balance of space and maneuverability, allowing you to navigate the bustling streets of Manhattan while still having room for your belongings.
• Economy: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families. The economy option is perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly choice without sacrificing comfort, making it easy to zip around the city and manage your luggage effectively.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Manhattan

• Budget: Budget has established itself as a popular choice for travelers in Manhattan, featuring 4 rental locations throughout the area. Known for its flexibility, Budget offers a selection of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs being the most booked options. This supplier is ideal for those looking to manage their luggage easily while exploring the city at their own pace.
• Avis: With over 5 rental locations in and around Manhattan, Avis is a convenient option for tourists seeking reliable transportation. The company is recognized for its well-maintained fleet, and many customers favor Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs for their comfort and space. Avis provides a great opportunity to navigate the bustling streets of Manhattan while enjoying the freedom to create your own itinerary.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car operates 2 rental locations in Manhattan, catering to travelers who appreciate convenience. This supplier is noted for its Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, making it an excellent choice for those needing additional room for passengers or luggage. With Dollar, you can explore Manhattan and its surrounding areas with ease and flexibility.

Where to stay around Manhattan

• Manhattan: The heart of New York City, Manhattan offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with iconic attractions. Key highlights include Times Square, a modern square ideal for city vacations, and Central Park, an expansive urban park perfect for family outings and outdoor activities. With numerous restaurants, theaters, and shopping areas, Manhattan is a hub for business and leisure travelers alike.
• Jersey City: Located 6 miles away from Manhattan, Jersey City presents a family-friendly environment with diverse shopping options. Visit the American Dream, a tourist precinct suitable for outdoor adventures, or explore Liberty State Park, which offers scenic views and recreational activities. The area's restaurants and wineries ensure plenty of dining choices for visitors.
• Fairview: Just 3 miles from Manhattan, Fairview is a charming city that caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts. Attractions like Times Square and Central Park are within reach, providing urban parks and vibrant city experiences. Fairview also boasts various restaurants and wineries, making it a convenient location for travelers seeking a mix of culture and relaxation.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often leads to lower prices and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size cars 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 categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other rentals may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well; 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 an additional 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 if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance while booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Manhattan

The best time to rent a car in and around Manhattan is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. February and March also offer good value, with similar low prices and demand levels. As spring approaches, April sees average prices and demand, while May shifts to slightly high demand and prices. The busiest and most expensive time tends to be June through August, when demand peaks and rates increase.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	31.6°F (-0.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
April	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	70.2°F (21.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average