Car Rental San Francisco

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Top Car Deals in San Francisco

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
San Francisco, Córdoba, ARG
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
San Francisco, Córdoba, ARG
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
San Francisco, Córdoba, ARG
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
San Francisco, Córdoba, ARG
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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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 allows you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to fit your preferences. This flexibility is particularly appealing for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural experiences the area has to offer. Additionally, having a car makes it convenient to visit nearby cities such as Frontera, just 5 miles away, Josefina, 7 miles away, and Devoto, which is 12 miles from San Francisco. Each of these destinations presents unique attractions and experiences that can be enjoyed without the restrictions of public transportation. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or on your own, a rental car provides the opportunity to create a personalized itinerary, making your trip more enjoyable and memorable. You can easily stop at various points of interest, explore local cuisine, or take in scenic views along the way. Overall, renting a car in San Francisco enhances your travel experience by offering the convenience and flexibility to discover everything this vibrant region has to offer.

Where to stay around San Francisco

  • Frontera: Located 5 miles away from San Francisco, Frontera offers a quaint atmosphere with local charm. Visitors can explore small shops and enjoy authentic Argentine cuisine. Its proximity makes it a convenient option for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat while still being close to the bustling activities in San Francisco.
  • Josefina: Situated 7 miles from San Francisco, Josefina boasts a friendly community vibe. This city features cozy accommodations and local eateries where you can immerse yourself in regional culture. It is an ideal spot for those looking to experience a slice of local life while having easy access to the attractions of San Francisco.
  • Devoto: At a distance of 12 miles from San Francisco, Devoto is known for its serene environment. The city offers various lodging options that cater to different preferences. Visitors can enjoy the local parks and open spaces, making it a great choice for nature enthusiasts who want a bit of tranquility after a day of exploring the nearby areas.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver 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 the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the best choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also work. Just remember to return the car empty in this 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 if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring 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 .

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.

Car Rental Information

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SUV, Full Size, Economy
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in San Francisco?
You can find cheap car rentals in San Francisco from $42 a day with Budget's compact 4-5 door cars. Budget offers compact 4-5 door cars starting from $42 a day and economy 4-5 door cars also starting from $42 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.
Can I rent a car round-trip in San Francisco?
San Francisco is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $42 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring the region and returning to the same spot. Providers like Budget and Avis also offer wide round-trip availability. 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. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Compact 4-5 door cars
  • Economy 4-5 door cars
  • Fullsize 4-5 door cars
  • Standard 4-5 door cars
  • SUVs
Most come with A/C standard, and both automatic and manual transmissions are available. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do fine with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. 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 cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 4-5 door cars, starting from $42 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 4-5 door cars, starting from $42 a day — fits 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're planning longer drives, consider sizing up to an SUV for extra highway comfort. 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:
  • Fullsize 4-5 door cars, starting from $49 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Standard 4-5 door cars, starting from $54 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with a comfortable 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 an SUV for scenic drives around San Francisco. 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:
  • Fullsize 4-5 door cars, starting from $49 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Standard 4-5 door cars, starting from $54 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases, offering comfort for family trips
SUVs also provide ample space for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them a comfortable fit for trips around San Francisco. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods in September and December, and consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What is the best time to book a car in San Francisco?
From January, prices in San Francisco are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $42 a day during this period. September tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. December also sees increased demand. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. 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 Budget and Avis, offering a range of vehicles. Budget has compact 4-5 door cars and economy 4-5 door cars, which are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Avis offers fullsize 4-5 door cars, providing more space for travelers. Choose a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage, or a fullsize car for more passenger and luggage room. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are good day trip destinations from San Francisco by rental car?
For an enriching day trip from San Francisco, consider driving to the Church and Convent of San Francisco in Santa Fe , located approximately 100 miles away, which is about a 2-hour drive. This historical site offers a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage and is suitable for solo travelers, couples, or families interested in history. Additionally, popular one-day excursions include wine tours to Colonia Caroya, Córdoba , and various sightseeing tours focusing on the Jesuit Legacy in Córdoba . These tours, such as the "Wine Tour Privado a Colonia Caroya" or the "Half-Day Cordoba Sightseeing Tour & Jesuit Legacy," are perfect for those looking to explore local culture, history, and culinary experiences, making them ideal for couples or small groups. When planning your day trip, a fullsize or standard car, starting from $49 a day and $54 a day respectively, will provide ample comfort for longer drives, while compact or economy cars, both starting from $42 a day, are excellent value options for easier navigation and fuel efficiency. Before heading out, ensure your rental car has a full tank of fuel and consider packing water and snacks, especially for longer journeys. These destinations are well-suited for a comfortable drive in any of the available vehicle types. 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 . 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.

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