$61 Car Rental Empire State Building, NY

These Empire State Building insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 25, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around Empire State Building

Renting a car around the Empire State Building provides the freedom and flexibility to explore New York City at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby attractions such as Times Square, Grand Central Terminal, and Rockefeller Center, all located less than 1 mile away. This convenience is particularly beneficial for families or travelers with luggage, as you can manage your belongings easily while moving between sights. The ability to travel without the constraints of public transport schedules allows for spontaneous detours and unplanned discoveries. Additionally, having a car makes it simple to explore the broader areas of New York, including iconic sites like Central Park and the Statue of Liberty. You can comfortably navigate through neighborhoods like Manhattan and Midtown, enriching your urban experience with scenic drives and friendly encounters. Whether you're looking for cultural landmarks or outdoor family activities, a rental car gives you the opportunity to tailor your visit according to your interests, making your trip around the Empire State Building both enjoyable and efficient.

Most popular car rentals near Empire State Building

• Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This option provides ample space for passengers and their belongings, making it a convenient choice for those looking to explore the attractions around the Empire State Building at their own pace.
• Standard SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for couples, families, or groups. The standard SUV offers a balance of comfort and roominess, allowing you to navigate the busy streets of New York City while ensuring your travel plans are flexible and stress-free.
• Economy: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families. The economy option is a practical choice for those looking to manage their budget while still enjoying the freedom and flexibility of having a vehicle at their disposal during their visit to the Empire State Building.

Top rated car suppliers near Empire State Building

• Budget: Budget boasts 3 rental locations conveniently situated less than 1 mile away from the Empire State Building. Known for their excellent value, Budget is a popular choice among travelers. The most booked vehicles with this supplier include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, making it easy for you to explore the attractions around the Empire State Building comfortably.
• Avis: With over 5 rental locations located less than 1 mile from the Empire State Building, Avis is an ideal option for tourists seeking flexibility. Their fleet includes Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, which are frequently chosen by customers. Avis is recognized for providing reliable vehicles, ensuring that your travel around New York City is both enjoyable and hassle-free.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car offers 3 rental locations approximately 1 mile away from the Empire State Building. They are well-regarded for their customer service and a diverse fleet of vehicles. Popular choices include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, giving you the space and comfort you need to navigate the city and manage your luggage with ease.

Where to stay near Empire State Building

• New York: Staying in New York places you at the heart of vibrant city life, just a short distance from the iconic Empire State Building. With numerous attractions such as Times Square and Central Park nearby, you can enjoy a mix of family-friendly and cultural experiences. The area is filled with shopping venues and diverse dining options, making it ideal for travelers seeking a city-themed vacation. The best time to visit is during spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, allowing for enjoyable exploration.
• Jersey City: Located 4 miles from the Empire State Building, Jersey City offers a family-friendly atmosphere with shopping centers and attractions like the American Dream. This metropolitan area provides easy access to cultural sites, including the Statue of Liberty. With a variety of restaurants and wineries nearby, Jersey City is perfect for travelers looking to blend urban experiences with leisure. The vibrant community is especially appealing during the warmer months, making it a great choice for outdoor activities.
• Fairview: Fairview is situated 4 miles from the Empire State Building and is an excellent option for those seeking a family and outdoor experience. The proximity to landmarks like Times Square and Central Park enhances its appeal, offering opportunities for both city exploration and relaxation in nature. With various shopping areas and dining options available, Fairview caters to a range of tastes. The spring and summer seasons are particularly nice for enjoying the outdoors and local attractions.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Empire State Building

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or a compact car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to score lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, 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 luxury 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 rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most beneficial. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also work; just remember to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might justify the cost.
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 unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is simple.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out 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.

Best time to rent a car around Empire State Building

The best time to rent a car around the Empire State Building is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. February and March also offer good value with similar pricing and demand characteristics. As spring approaches, prices tend to rise slightly, peaking in June, which sees high demand and elevated rental rates. July continues this trend, making it one of the busiest and most expensive months for rentals in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	31.6°F (-0.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
April	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	70.2°F (21.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average