$44 Car Rental South Lake Union, WA

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Top Car Deals in South Lake Union

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

Sun, Oct 4 to Mon, Oct 5

Economy

Mitsubishi Mirage
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Seattle, Washington, USA
Mitsubishi Mirage

$45

includes taxes & fees
$24 per day
found 12 hours ago
Economy Mitsubishi Mirage
Sun, Oct 4 to Mon, Oct 5

Special

COMPACT HOT DEAL. Our Choice Compact or larger
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Seattle, Washington, USA
COMPACT HOT DEAL. Our Choice Compact or larger

$44

includes taxes & fees
$24 per day
found 12 hours ago
Special COMPACT HOT DEAL. Our Choice Compact or larger
Sun, Oct 4 to Mon, Oct 5

Standard

Volkswagen Jetta
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Seattle, Washington, USA
Volkswagen Jetta

$47

includes taxes & fees
$25 per day
found 12 hours ago
Standard Volkswagen Jetta
Sun, Oct 4 to Mon, Oct 5

Compact

Nissan Versa
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Seattle, Washington, USA
Nissan Versa

$46

includes taxes & fees
$25 per day
found 12 hours ago
Compact Nissan Versa
Sun, Oct 4 to Mon, Oct 5

Midsize

Toyota Corolla or Similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Seattle, Washington, USA
Toyota Corolla or Similar

$45

includes taxes & fees
$25 per day
found 12 hours ago
Midsize Toyota Corolla or Similar
Sun, Oct 4 to Mon, Oct 5

Fullsize

Nissan Altima
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Seattle, Washington, USA
Nissan Altima

$48

includes taxes & fees
$26 per day
found 12 hours ago
Fullsize Nissan Altima
Sun, Oct 4 to Mon, Oct 5

Mini Van

Chrysler Pacifica
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Seattle, Washington, USA
Chrysler Pacifica

$104

includes taxes & fees
$59 per day
found 12 hours ago
Mini Van Chrysler Pacifica
Fri, Oct 2 to Sat, Oct 3

Premium Pickup Regular Cab

Ford F150
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Seatac, Washington, USA
Ford F150

$95

includes taxes & fees
$69 per day
found 7 hours ago
Premium Pickup Regular Cab Ford F150
Fri, Oct 2 to Sat, Oct 3

Luxury

Audi A4 Genesis G70 BMW 3 series
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Seatac, Washington, USA
Audi A4 Genesis G70 BMW 3 series

$140

includes taxes & fees
$94 per day
found 7 hours ago
Luxury Audi A4 Genesis G70 BMW 3 series

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Lowest prices found within the past 12 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your South Lake Union car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around South Lake Union

Renting a car in South Lake Union provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the neighborhood and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. This option is particularly appealing for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy outdoor experiences. You can visit nearby attractions such as Denny Park, an urban park ideal for family and outdoor activities, or the Seattle Waterfront, located just 1 mile away, perfect for scenic views and beach experiences. The iconic Space Needle is also less than 1 mile from South Lake Union, offering a modern city experience. Your rental car makes it convenient to venture into other popular areas, including Downtown Seattle and Capitol Hill, both within a mile of South Lake Union. Having your own vehicle allows you to visit these vibrant neighborhoods without the hassle of public transportation, ensuring you make the most of your trip. Whether you're planning to enjoy the sights or explore charming parks, a rental car is a practical choice for your Seattle adventure.

Most popular car rentals around South Lake Union

  • Midsize SUV: This car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. If you’re planning to explore the attractions around South Lake Union with ease, a midsize SUV offers the space and comfort you need for a pleasant driving experience.
  • Compact: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, the compact car option accommodates 5 travelers with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This choice is great for navigating the urban environment of South Lake Union while providing the flexibility to manage your luggage effortlessly. Compact cars are efficient and easy to park, making them a smart choice for city exploration.
  • Premium: For those seeking a touch of luxury, the premium car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and holds up to 4 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for business travelers or couples. With more space and comfort, premium cars provide an elevated driving experience, perfect for navigating around South Lake Union while maintaining a stylish presence on the road.

Top rated car suppliers around South Lake Union

  • Enterprise: With 4 rental locations, Enterprise is a top choice for travelers in South Lake Union. The nearest location is less than 1 mile away, making it incredibly convenient for your rental needs. Known for its friendly service, Enterprise ensures a pleasant experience. The most popular vehicles among customers include Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans, ideal for families or groups exploring the area.
  • Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo offers a rental location approximately 1 mile from South Lake Union, providing excellent accessibility for visitors. Renowned for friendly service, Alamo is a favorite among travelers seeking a hassle-free rental experience. The most booked vehicles are Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans, perfect for those who prioritize space and comfort during their adventures.
  • Hertz: With 2 rental locations, Hertz has a presence in and around South Lake Union, with the closest location being less than 1 mile away. This supplier is also recognized for its friendly service. Travelers often choose Midsize SUVs and Compacts, catering to a variety of preferences, whether you need extra space for luggage or a smaller vehicle for navigating the city.

Where to stay around South Lake Union

  • South Lake Union: A vibrant area in Seattle known for its outdoor and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities near Lake Union and explore the Seattle Center, which is perfect for city and family outings. Nearby attractions include the iconic Space Needle and the scenic Seattle Waterfront, both offering beautiful views and leisurely activities. The area boasts various cafes and restaurants, making it ideal for a comfortable stay while exploring the city.
  • Downtown Seattle: Located just 1 mile from South Lake Union, Downtown Seattle is a bustling neighborhood that combines family and city-themed experiences. Key attractions include the historic Seattle Waterfront and the Space Needle, both offering stunning views and engaging activities. The area is rich in dining options, with numerous cafes and restaurants to choose from. Visitors can also enjoy a vibrant theater scene and access to markets, making it a lively place to stay.
  • Bellevue: Situated 6 miles from South Lake Union, Bellevue is a city that caters to families and business travelers alike. With its shopping centers and recreational areas, Bellevue offers a blend of city life and outdoor experiences. Notable attractions include Old Bellevue and Meydenbauer Beach Park, perfect for relaxation and scenic views. The area features a variety of dining options, including restaurants and cafes, ensuring a pleasant stay for visitors looking to explore the region.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around South Lake Union

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your travel needs.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to make your reservation well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure more competitive rates and have a broader selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a great balance of 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 luxury models—might not be available. Renters over 70 years old may also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is generally the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs an additional surcharge, though the convenience may justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies require payment via credit card only.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind during your journey. Adding rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, seek out rental options that include unlimited mileage to avoid 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 South Lake Union

The best time to rent a car in and around South Lake Union is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. February also offers a quiet experience with similar pricing. As spring approaches, March through May sees average prices and demand. However, July is the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, making it a busy time for rentals. June through August generally maintains this trend of elevated costs and demand.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January40.3°F (4.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
March43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July67.1°F (19.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August67.5°F (19.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November44.2°F (6.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$44
 
Our second best deal of the day
$45
 
Our third best deal of the day
$46
 
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 near South Lake Union?
You can find cheap car rentals near South Lake Union from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's economy 2/4 door cars. Sixt offers midsize SUVs starting from $11 a day and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $11 a day. Avis also provides economy 2 or 4 door cars starting from $11 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental near South Lake Union that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in South Lake Union.
What are the best luxury car companies near South Lake Union?
For luxury car rentals near South Lake Union, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Sixt and Alamo Rent A Car. Sixt offers standard elite SUVs starting from $16 a day and fullsize elite SUVs starting from $16 a day. Alamo Rent A Car provides premium crossovers starting from $26 a day and premium elite SUVs starting from $30 a day. These luxury rentals can offer enhanced comfort and features for your trip. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in South Lake Union.
Can I rent a car one-way near South Lake Union?
Yes, a one-way car rental near South Lake Union is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $10 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle near South Lake Union and drop it off at a different location. These are good options for a one-way car rental starting near South Lake Union. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in South Lake Union.
Can I rent a car round-trip near South Lake Union?
Yes, the area near South Lake Union is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $10 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 areas near South Lake Union and returning to the same spot. Popular nearby destinations include:
  • Pike Place Market, 1 mile away
  • Seattle Waterfront, 1 mile away
  • Lumen Field, 1 mile away
Providers like Sixt and Enterprise also offer wide round-trip availability. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in South Lake Union.

What are the best car rentals near South Lake Union?
Car rentals near South Lake Union offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
Most come with automatic transmission 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 South Lake Union.

What are the best car rentals near South Lake Union for solo travelers?
The best car rentals near South Lake Union 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 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight 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're planning longer drives to spots like Pike Place Market, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $14 a day, for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in South Lake Union.

What are the best car rentals near South Lake Union for couples?
The best car rentals near South Lake Union 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 $14 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. These options are ideal for exploring the South Lake Union area and beyond. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in South Lake Union.

What are the best car rentals near South Lake Union for families?
The best car rentals near South Lake Union 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
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day — seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, offering comfort for longer family drives
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $26 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 the South Lake Union area. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during the June-July peak, and consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in South Lake Union.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near South Lake Union?
Yes, the area near South Lake Union has excellent electric vehicle options. Sixt offers electric vehicles starting from $14 a day, and Avis also provides electric options starting from $14 a day. Multiple rental companies near South Lake Union carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. The area has extensive public charging infrastructure with fast-charging stations along major routes. Electric vehicles save on fuel—charging costs less than equivalent gas cars. Book electric vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead as demand is high. Plan charging stops for trips beyond 200 miles.
What is the best time to book a car near South Lake Union?
From January, prices near South Lake Union are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $11 a day during this period. July 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:
  • Pike Place Market
  • Seattle Waterfront
  • Lumen Field
  • Multi-attraction pass: Admission to Top 5 Attractions
  • Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour
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 is the weather like for driving near South Lake Union?
Driving near South Lake Union can vary, so it's always good to be prepared for different conditions. Traffic and demand tend to build around July, when routes to spots like Pike Place Market get busiest—plan drives for quieter periods where you can. For wet or slippery stretches, a standard SUV class offers reliable grip and traction. Check the forecast before longer trips and carry water and an emergency kit for remote routes.
What are the best car companies near South Lake Union?
Car rentals in the South Lake Union area are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has midsize SUVs and fullsize 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets, while Enterprise offers midsize 2 or 4 door and midsize SUVs with more space and stability for highways and rougher terrain. Alamo Rent A Car rounds out the choices with compact 2 or 4 door and midsize 2 or 4 door vehicles. Choose a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for mountain or winter driving, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in South Lake Union.
What are good day trip destinations from South Lake Union by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and events within easy reach from South Lake Union include:
  • Pike Place Market, approximately 1 mile away
  • Seattle Waterfront, approximately 1 mile away
  • Space Needle, approximately 2 miles away
  • A city pass: Admission to Top 5 Attractions
  • Issaquah Salmon Days Festival, a planned event in October
These distances are manageable for most car types. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in South Lake Union.

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 South Lake Union?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in South Lake Union. 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 South Lake Union?
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 South Lake Union?
Budget car rental in South Lake Union can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $44. 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 South Lake Union?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in South Lake Union. 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 South Lake Union car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in South Lake Union?
To rent a car in South Lake Union, 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 South Lake Union car rental?
If you need to cancel your South Lake Union 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 South Lake Union 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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