$10 Car Rental San Francisco

Search and Compare from Car Companies in San Francisco

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top Car Deals in San Francisco

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Renault Kwid Intens
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
PUERTO VALLARTA, MEX
Renault Kwid Intens

$10

includes taxes & fees
$8 per day
found 4 days ago
Economy Renault Kwid Intens

Mini

Hyundai Grand i10
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
PUERTO VALLARTA, MEX
Hyundai Grand i10

$10

includes taxes & fees
$8 per day
found 4 days ago
Mini Hyundai Grand i10

Midsize

Suzuki Dzire
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
PUERTO VALLARTA, MEX
Suzuki Dzire

$11

includes taxes & fees
$9 per day
found 4 days ago
Midsize Suzuki Dzire

Standard

Nissan Versa
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
PUERTO VALLARTA, MEX
Nissan Versa

$13

includes taxes & fees
$11 per day
found 4 days ago
Standard Nissan Versa

Fullsize

Nissan Sentra
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
PUERTO VALLARTA, MEX
Nissan Sentra

$14

includes taxes & fees
$12 per day
found 4 days ago
Fullsize Nissan Sentra

Compact SUV

Peugeot 2008
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
PUERTO VALLARTA, MEX
Peugeot 2008

$16

includes taxes & fees
$13 per day
found 4 days ago
Compact SUV Peugeot 2008

Premium

Volkswagen Jetta
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
NAYARIT, MEX
Volkswagen Jetta

$57

includes taxes & fees
$36 per day
found 4 days ago
Premium Volkswagen Jetta

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in San Francisco
View all cars
Lowest prices found within the past 4 days. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your San Francisco car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Francisco

Renting a car in San Francisco provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families and travelers with luggage, as a rental car allows for easy management of belongings while visiting multiple attractions. You can venture to Playa San Francisco for a relaxing beach day, or drive just 3 miles to Sayulita Square to dive into local culture. Additionally, Gringo Hill, located 3 miles away, offers a charming neighborhood experience.

With a rental car, you can also explore nearby popular destinations such as Sayulita, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere, located a short 3 miles from San Francisco. The North End, only 2 miles away, features attractions like Playa Bucerías and Punta de Mita Beach, making it easy to enjoy a variety of experiences. By having your own vehicle, you can create flexible travel plans and visit attractions that cater to both business-themed and family-related interests, ensuring a well-rounded trip in and around San Francisco.

Where to stay around San Francisco

  • Sayulita: Located 3 miles from San Francisco, Sayulita is a vibrant city popular for its city-themed, business-themed, and family experiences. Travelers can explore attractions like Sayulita Beach, perfect for a beach vacation, and Sayulita Square, which offers rich cultural experiences. The nearby public market is ideal for those looking to enjoy local food and drinks at various cafes. This area is especially lively, making it a great choice for visitors seeking both relaxation and activity.
  • Punta de Mita: Situated 11 miles from San Francisco, Punta de Mita is renowned for its beautiful beaches and city-themed experiences. Key attractions include Punta de Mita Beach, Destiladeras Beach, and El Anclote Beach, all suitable for a relaxing beach vacation. Visitors can enjoy local dining options and explore markets that showcase the area’s vibrant atmosphere. This destination is ideal for travelers who appreciate nature and the beach lifestyle.
  • Bucerías: Also located 11 miles from San Francisco, Bucerías offers a blend of city and beach experiences. With notable attractions like Playa Bucerías and Nuevo Vallarta Beach, this area is perfect for beach lovers. The local esplanade and markets provide a lively setting for dining and shopping. Bucerías is an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience both cultural and recreational activities in a friendly environment.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around San Francisco

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summertime enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure more favorable rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but this added convenience might be worth the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily 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 something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long 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.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in San Francisco

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in San Francisco

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $10.

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.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

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

Car Rental Information

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day
$10
Our second best deal of the day
$11
Our third best deal of the day
$13
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in San Francisco?
You can find cheap car rentals in San Francisco from $10 a day with Budget's fullsize 2/4 door cars. Sixt offers economy SUVs starting from $11 a day and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $11 a day. Alamo Rent A Car also provides options like midsize SUVs starting from $11 a day and fullsize 4-5 door cars starting from $11 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in San Francisco that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are the best luxury car companies in San Francisco?
For luxury car rentals in San Francisco, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Enterprise, which offers premium SUVs starting from $56 a day. Sixt and Alamo Rent A Car also provide vehicles in their Premium categories, offering enhanced comfort and features for a more upscale travel experience. Luxury rentals may include premium insurance options and attentive service at pickup, making them ideal for travelers seeking extra comfort and style. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in San Francisco.
Can I rent a car one-way in San Francisco?
A one-way car rental in San Francisco is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $11 a day. Providers like Sixt and Alamo Rent A Car offer one-way rental options, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in San Francisco and drop it off at a different location. This flexibility is convenient for travelers planning to explore beyond the city without needing to return to their original pickup point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in San Francisco.
Can I rent a car round-trip in San Francisco?
San Francisco is well suited to round-trip rentals, with prices starting from $10 a day. Picking up and dropping off your car at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it a cost-effective option for exploring areas near San Francisco. You can visit nearby attractions such as San Pancho Nayarit Market, Sayulita Beach, and Punta de Mita Beach, returning to your original pickup point. Providers like Sixt and Alamo Rent A Car offer wide round-trip availability, making it easy to plan your itinerary. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are the best car rentals in San Francisco?
Car rentals in San Francisco offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Economy SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Mini 2 or 4 door
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, and air conditioning is standard, ensuring a comfortable ride. Families often prefer SUVs or minivans for their ample space for passengers and luggage, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for city navigation and fuel efficiency. Your choice should align with your passenger count, luggage requirements, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are the best car rentals in San Francisco for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in San Francisco for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives to spots like San Pancho Nayarit Market, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $12 a day, for extra highway comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are the best car rentals in San Francisco for couples?
The best car rentals in San Francisco for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $11 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a midsize open air all terrain vehicle, starting from $11 a day, for scenic drives around San Francisco, offering a unique way to experience the area. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are the best car rentals in San Francisco for families?
The best car rentals in San Francisco for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $11 a day — seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $23 a day — seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around San Francisco. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods like December, March, and February. Consider adding GPS if you are new to the area to help navigate. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in San Francisco.
Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in San Francisco?
San Francisco has electric and hybrid vehicle options available for rent. Sixt offers hybrid vehicles starting from $18 a day, and Advantage Rent-A-Car also provides hybrid options. Multiple rental companies in San Francisco carry electric and hybrid cars, which are widely available on Expedia. Many modern cities offer public charging stations. Hybrid vehicles can help save on fuel costs, making them a good choice for environmentally conscious travelers.
What is the best time to book a car in San Francisco?
From September, prices in San Francisco are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $11 a day during this period. December tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Demand climbs as travelers head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • San Pancho Nayarit Market, San Francisco, Nayarit, Mexico
  • Sayulita Beach, Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico
  • Punta de Mita Beach, Punta de Mita, Nayarit, Mexico
  • Hike and Yoga Jungle Experience in Mexico
Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in San Francisco?
Car rentals in San Francisco are available from providers like Sixt, Alamo Rent A Car, and Enterprise, offering a variety of vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has economy SUVs and fullsize 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Alamo Rent A Car offers midsize SUVs and fullsize 4-5 door vehicles with more space and stability for highways. Enterprise rounds out the choices with fullsize 4-5 door and fullsize 2 or 4 door vehicles. Choosing a compact class can be beneficial for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are good day trip destinations from San Francisco by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and activities within easy reach from San Francisco include:
  • San Pancho Nayarit Market, San Francisco, Nayarit, Mexico, approximately 1 mile away
  • Sayulita Beach, Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico, approximately 4 miles away
  • Punta de Mita Beach, Punta de Mita, Nayarit, Mexico, approximately 13 miles away
  • Hike and Yoga Jungle Experience in Mexico
These distances are manageable for most car types, from a compact for easy city driving to an SUV for more comfort on longer routes. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are subject to change. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in San Francisco.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in San Francisco?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in San Francisco. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in San Francisco?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in San Francisco?
Budget car rental in San Francisco can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $10. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in San Francisco?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in San Francisco. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your San Francisco car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in San Francisco?
To rent a car in San Francisco, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my San Francisco car rental?
If you need to cancel your San Francisco car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in San Francisco with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia