Car Rental Central Arizona, AZ

These Central Arizona insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 15, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Central Arizona

Renting a car in Central Arizona provides excellent freedom and flexibility for your travel plans. With a rental vehicle, you can explore the area's attractions at your own pace, making it easy to manage luggage and create a personalized itinerary. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, scenic views, or a romantic getaway, having a car allows you to visit key sites like the Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, located 8 miles away, and the Gilbert Arizona Temple, which is just 6 miles from Central Arizona. Families can enjoy Tumbleweed Park, only 1 mile away, perfect for outdoor fun. Additionally, popular destinations like Mesa, 11 miles away, and Chandler, 3 miles away, offer cultural experiences and scenic beauty, from the Mesa Arts Center to Tempe Town Lake. For those staying in nearby neighborhoods like Fox Crossing, many attractions are conveniently located within a mile. With a rental car, you can experience the rich offerings of Central Arizona while accommodating the needs of various travelers, ensuring a memorable visit.

Most popular car rentals around Central Arizona

• Midsize SUV: A popular choice for travelers in Central Arizona, the midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 passengers and provides ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for families, couples, or small groups, offering the versatility needed for both city driving and outdoor adventures. With its spacious interior, you'll have the comfort to enjoy your journey while easily managing your luggage.
• Compact: Perfect for those looking to travel light, the compact car option also accommodates up to 5 travelers with room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families. Compact cars are easy to maneuver, which can be particularly beneficial when navigating the roads of Central Arizona, providing both convenience and efficiency for your trip.
• Fullsize: Offering maximum space and comfort, the fullsize car can accommodate up to 5 passengers and allows for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a fantastic option for families or groups traveling together. With its generous space, you can enjoy a comfortable ride while ensuring that everyone’s luggage fits without any hassle, making your travels around Central Arizona a breeze.

Top rated car suppliers around Central Arizona

• Enterprise: With 2 rental locations, the nearest being only 3 miles away from Central Arizona, Enterprise is a convenient choice for travelers. They are known for their diverse fleet, with the Midsize SUV and Fullsize being the most booked options. This supplier provides flexibility and a wide range of vehicles to cater to different needs, making it easy to explore the region at your own pace.
• Hertz: Located 5 miles away from Central Arizona, Hertz has a well-established reputation in the car rental industry. They offer a selection of popular vehicles, including the Midsize SUV and Fullsize, which are favored by travelers. With their efficient service and reliable cars, Hertz ensures that your rental experience will be smooth and enjoyable.
• Budget: Budget stands out with 3 rental locations, the closest being only 1 mile from Central Arizona. This accessibility makes it a top choice for travelers looking for convenience. Budget specializes in offering value for money, and their most requested vehicles include Midsize SUV and Fullsize options. You can expect a straightforward rental process that suits your travel plans perfectly.

Where to stay around Central Arizona

• Mesa: Located 11 miles away from Central Arizona, Mesa is ideal for family and outdoor experiences. Visitors can enjoy the Mesa Arts Center for a cultural vacation, Tempe Town Lake for scenic outdoor activities, and the Desert Botanical Garden for family-friendly exploration. With shopping malls, golf courses, and a variety of restaurants and wineries nearby, Mesa offers a vibrant atmosphere for travelers.
• Chandler: Just 3 miles from Central Arizona, Chandler provides a mix of family and business-themed experiences. Key attractions include Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park for adventure seekers, the historic Rawhide Western Town & Event Center for culture enthusiasts, and the Chandler Center for the Arts, which showcases local art. Shopping centers and dining options make Chandler a convenient base for visitors.
• Gilbert: Situated 7 miles away from Central Arizona, Gilbert is perfect for families and business travelers alike. Notable attractions include the Gilbert Arizona Temple for cultural insights, Tempe Town Lake for outdoor enjoyment, and the Higley Center for the Performing Arts for those interested in local performances. With numerous shopping centers and dining options nearby, Gilbert offers a well-rounded experience for all types of travelers.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Central Arizona

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget friendliness, utilizing filters on Expedia can help you identify the perfect 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 vehicle well ahead of your travel date. By booking early, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and have access to a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and can be easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced choice, blending cost, 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 not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most cost-effective 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 those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add insurance when you reserve your car through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek 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 vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Central Arizona

The best value period to rent a car in Central Arizona is May, when prices are lower and demand is moderate. April also offers slightly lower prices with average demand, making it a good option. June sees prices return to average levels, but demand drops. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. March is particularly busy, often leading to higher rental rates as well.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	54.1°F (12.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
February	57.2°F (14.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	61.7°F (16.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
April	70.0°F (21.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	80.2°F (26.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	91.4°F (33.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
July	94.3°F (34.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Slightly High
August	93.6°F (34.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	88.0°F (31.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
October	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
December	54.1°F (12.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Central Arizona

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Central Arizona

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

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.

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.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals