$81 Car Rental Oakland University, MI

These Oakland University insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 23, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around Oakland University

Renting a car around Oakland University offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for visitors who may have luggage or are traveling with families, as it allows for easy management of your belongings. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit notable attractions such as the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, located 5 miles away, or the historic Canterbury Village, which is just 6 miles from the university. For a quick cultural experience, Meadow Brook Hall is less than 1 mile away. Additionally, having a car makes it simple to explore nearby cities like Auburn Hills, which is only 1 mile away and features all the aforementioned attractions, or Troy, located 6 miles away, known for its Troy Historic Village and Cranbrook Art Museum. Furthermore, the proximity to Detroit provides access to notable landmarks like the Henry Ford Museum and GM Renaissance Center. A rental car enhances your travel experience by allowing you to create a flexible itinerary and helping you connect with the friendly people in the area.

Most popular car rentals near Oakland University

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. Renting a Midsize SUV around Oakland University provides ample space for both passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable journey while exploring the area.
• Economy: The Economy car is perfect for 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small families. This option offers an economical choice for those looking to navigate around Oakland University with ease and flexibility, while also being budget-friendly.
• Fullsize: With the capacity for 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the Fullsize car is ideal for families or groups. Renting a Fullsize vehicle around Oakland University ensures that everyone can travel comfortably, with enough room for luggage and personal belongings, allowing for a hassle-free trip.

Top rated car suppliers near Oakland University

• Hertz: Hertz has a rental location conveniently situated 4 miles away from Oakland University, making it easy for travelers to access. This supplier is popular for its well-maintained vehicles, particularly Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, which are frequently booked by customers. With a focus on convenience, Hertz provides a reliable option for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out with two rental locations, the nearest being only 2 miles away from Oakland University. This supplier is especially favored for its exceptional customer service and a diverse selection of vehicles, including Fullsize SUVs and Mini Vans. Travelers appreciate the flexibility and support offered by the staff, making Enterprise a top choice for families and groups.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental, located 4 miles away from Oakland University, is another excellent option for visitors. Known for its competitive pricing and efficient service, Thrifty provides Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars that cater to various travel needs. Customers value the ease of the rental process, allowing them to focus on enjoying their trip around Rochester, Michigan.

Where to stay near Oakland University

• Detroit: Located nearby Oakland University, Detroit offers a vibrant metropolitan experience. Travelers can explore cultural attractions such as the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, both suitable for a culture vacation. For shopping and dining, the city features various restaurants and wineries, providing a range of food and drink options. The GM Renaissance Center, a prominent skyscraper, adds to the city's urban charm. Best visited during the warmer months, Detroit is ideal for family, romantic, and city-themed experiences.
• Oakland: Situated 7 miles from Oakland University, the city of Oakland is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking scenic views. Visitors can explore local attractions such as Canterbury Village, a historic village, and the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, which offers family-friendly fun. The area also boasts recreational spaces and parks, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers. Spring and summer are particularly enjoyable, as the weather enhances outdoor activities.
• Clarkston: Located 11 miles away from Oakland University, Clarkston is known for its entertainment and romantic atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including theater performances and music concerts. Key highlights include the Huron River, ideal for outdoor scenery, and the historic Canterbury Village. With a range of nearby wineries and restaurants, Clarkston offers a delightful culinary experience. The best time to visit is during the summer, when the area's vibrant events and natural beauty are fully on display.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Oakland University

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for ample space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to find the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary according to demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance can often lead to lower prices and improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size options offer a good balance of affordability, 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 premium models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always confirm the age requirements before finalizing your 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 extra fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty if you choose this option.
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 it offers.
7. Know your payment options: Many 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 in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning to take long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
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 around Oakland University

The best value period to rent a car near Oakland University is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is low. March and April also offer moderate prices with average demand. However, from June through August, prices tend to be slightly high, and demand increases during these months. July stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand making it less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	25.3°F (-3.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	26.2°F (-3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	36.3°F (2.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average