Los Angeles County Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Los Angeles County

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What you need to know for your Los Angeles County car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Los Angeles County

Renting a car in Los Angeles County offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for families and those seeking outdoor and entertainment experiences. You can visit iconic attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood, perfect for entertainment and family fun, or enjoy a relaxing day at Santa Monica Beach. The Hollywood Walk of Fame provides a unique city experience, showcasing the stars of your favorite celebrities. Additionally, with a car, you can venture into nearby cities such as Long Beach, where you can explore the Long Beach Waterfront and Disneyland® Resort, or Santa Monica, home to Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach. The convenience of having a vehicle allows you to navigate through the metropolitan areas of Los Angeles and its surrounding attractions effortlessly, ensuring you see all the sights you desire without the hassle of public transportation. Renting a car truly enhances your travel experience in Los Angeles County, allowing you to create memorable moments at attractions and destinations throughout the region.

Most popular car rentals in Los Angeles County

  • Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV accommodates 5 travelers comfortably and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for those looking to explore Los Angeles County while ensuring everyone has enough room for their luggage, making it a popular choice among renters seeking a balance of space and maneuverability.
  • Fullsize: The fullsize car is a great option for families and groups, accommodating 5 travelers with capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for those planning to travel with more luggage or who desire additional space for comfort during their journeys around Los Angeles County.
  • Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV accommodates 5 travelers and provides room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option strikes a good balance between comfort and size, making it a popular selection for those who want to navigate Los Angeles County while keeping their luggage manageable.

Where to stay in Los Angeles County

  • Los Angeles: A vibrant metropolis, Los Angeles offers a rich array of entertainment and cultural experiences. Stay close to attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain, both ideal for family vacations. Explore the iconic Santa Monica Beach for a quintessential beach experience. The city is also home to numerous restaurants, wineries, and theaters, making it a perfect base for food lovers and those seeking nightlife.
  • Catalina Island: Known for its stunning natural beauty, Catalina Island is a fantastic choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the pristine Descanso Beach and Moonstone Beach, which are perfect for a relaxing beach day. The island features resorts and shopping centers, providing a unique blend of leisure and recreation, along with excellent dining options including local wineries.
  • Avalon: This charming city on Catalina Island is rich in culture and history. Avalon offers attractions like the Catalina Island Museum and the historic Catalina Casino. Families can enjoy the beautiful Descanso Beach, while the area's shopping centers provide a variety of dining options. Avalon is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a blend of culture and outdoor activities.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Los Angeles County

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to benefit from lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically come with lower rental rates and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. Renters over 70 could face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  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 charges. This is often the most cost-effective option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs an additional surcharge, but it might be worthwhile for the convenience it provides.
  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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It's easy to add this coverage when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, search for rental options 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.

Best time to rent a car in Los Angeles County

The best time to rent a car in Los Angeles County is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This period offers the best value for travelers looking for quieter conditions. March through May also present moderate pricing and average demand, making them good shoulder months. However, July and August see the highest demand and prices, making them the most expensive months to rent a car in the area. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Find Los Angeles County Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Los Angeles County car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Los Angeles County, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Los Angeles County offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Los Angeles County car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Los Angeles County to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Los Angeles County airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Los Angeles County rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Los Angeles County airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Los Angeles County?
You can find cheap car rentals in Los Angeles County from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's economy 2/4 door. Car rentals for exploring Los Angeles County are picked up at the region's main gateway, Los Angeles Airport (LAX). From there it's an easy drive to cities like Los Angeles and Long Beach, where rates also start from $10 a day. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, and Thrifty Car Rental operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Los Angeles County.
What are the best car rentals in Los Angeles County?
Car rentals across Los Angeles County offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Thrifty Car Rental, broadly available in the region's main cities — Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Venice. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard elite SUV
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Los Angeles County.

What are the best car rental companies in Los Angeles County?
For car rentals across Los Angeles County, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Thrifty Car Rental offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Venice. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Los Angeles Airport (LAX) for exploring Los Angeles County?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Los Angeles Airport (LAX) for exploring Los Angeles County. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Thrifty Car Rental operate at the airport, with rates from around $11 a day. LAX is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Los Angeles to Long Beach.
Can I rent a car one-way in Los Angeles County?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Los Angeles County — pick up in one city, such as Los Angeles, and drop-off in another, like Long Beach, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $10 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Los Angeles County?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Los Angeles County, including in Los Angeles and Long Beach. Sixt offers hybrid from $11 a day and electric options from $13 a day. Enterprise also offers hybrid vehicles from $11 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Los Angeles County?
For luxury car rentals across Los Angeles County, Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars from $16 a day (and fullsize elite SUV from $21 a day), while Enterprise and Thrifty Car Rental add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Los Angeles and Long Beach. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Los Angeles County.
What are the best car rentals in Los Angeles County for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Los Angeles County, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Los Angeles to Long Beach:
  • Sixt: midsize SUV from $12 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: mini passenger van from $30 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: fullsize SUV from $33 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Los Angeles County.

What are the best car rentals in Los Angeles County for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Los Angeles County for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Los Angeles and Long Beach:
  • Economy car, from $12 a day — fits up to 5 people and 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $13 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Los Angeles County.

What are the best car rentals in Los Angeles County for couples?
The best car rentals in Los Angeles County for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Los Angeles and Long Beach:
  • Midsize car, from $11 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $11 a day — fits up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for your trip. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Los Angeles County.

What are the closest airports to Los Angeles County for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Los Angeles County offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Los Angeles Airport (LAX)
  • Long Beach Airport (LGB)
  • Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Los Angeles County by rental car?
From Los Angeles County, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Los Angeles hub include:
  • The Village, Big Bear Lake, approximately 1 mile away
  • Big Bear Lake, approximately 1 mile away
  • Snow Summit, Big Bear Lake, approximately 2 miles away
  • Balboa Beach, Newport Beach, approximately 2 miles away
Time your trip around events like Rose Parade, or add activities such as Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets. With cities like Long Beach also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Los Angeles County.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Los Angeles County?
In Los Angeles County, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
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 Los Angeles County?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Los Angeles County. 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 Los Angeles County?
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 Los Angeles County?
Budget car rental in Los Angeles County 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 Los Angeles County?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Los Angeles County. 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 Los Angeles County car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Los Angeles County?
To rent a car in Los Angeles County, 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 Los Angeles County car rental?
If you need to cancel your Los Angeles County 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.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
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