$54 Car Rental Knoxville, TN

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Top Car Deals in Knoxville

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Lowest prices found within the past 5 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Knoxville car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Knoxville

Renting a car in Knoxville offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts, road trippers, and family travelers alike. With a rental car, you can explore attractions like the historic University of Tennessee and the bustling Thompson–Boling Arena at your own pace. The convenience of managing luggage and having a flexible travel plan allows for spontaneous adventures, whether you're visiting the Knoxville Convention Center or taking a scenic drive through East Knoxville. Additionally, you'll have easy access to popular neighborhoods such as Downtown Knoxville, where you can immerse yourself in local culture, or Knoxville West, featuring destinations like Pellissippi State Community College and Topgolf Knoxville. A rental car also enables families to easily transport everything they need for a day out, ensuring that you can enjoy your time without the hassle of public transportation. Whether you seek adventure or a leisurely exploration of the area's scenic views, having a car at your disposal enhances your experience in and around Knoxville, making your trip memorable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in Knoxville

  • Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV is a popular choice among travelers in Knoxville, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly suited for families, couples, or small groups who are eager to explore the natural beauty and attractions in and around the city. With its versatility and comfort, a midsize SUV provides the freedom to embark on outdoor adventures or leisurely road trips with ease.
  • Fullsize: Ideal for families and larger groups, the fullsize car option fits up to 5 travelers and can carry either 3 large or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious vehicle allows travelers to enjoy their journey without worrying about luggage space. The fullsize car is perfect for those looking to travel comfortably while exploring the scenic regions surrounding Knoxville, making it a top choice for road trips and family vacations.
  • Mini Van: The mini van is the ultimate choice for larger groups, accommodating up to 8 travelers and providing space for 6 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent option for family gatherings or group outings. With its roomy interior, the mini van ensures everyone can travel together comfortably while enjoying the flexibility to navigate through Knoxville and its beautiful surroundings. It’s a practical and spacious choice for those looking to create lasting memories on their trip.

Top rated car suppliers in Knoxville

  • Budget: With 3 rental locations in the Knoxville area, Budget is a great choice for travelers looking for flexibility and value. The most booked vehicles from Budget are Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, making it easy to find a spacious option for your journey. Enjoy the convenience of managing your itinerary on your own terms while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Knoxville.
  • Hertz: Offering 2 rental locations in Knoxville, Hertz provides a reliable option for travelers seeking quality vehicles. Their most popular choices include Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans, perfect for families or groups. With Hertz, you can enjoy the freedom to explore Knoxville and its attractions at your own pace, ensuring a memorable trip.
  • Enterprise: With 5 rental locations throughout the Knoxville area, Enterprise stands out for its accessibility and range of options. The most booked vehicles from Enterprise include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, allowing you to travel comfortably. Enterprise's numerous locations make it easy to pick up and return your rental, giving you more time to enjoy your adventures in and around Knoxville.

Where to go in and around Knoxville

  • Downtown Knoxville: A vibrant neighborhood known for its cultural and business experiences, Downtown Knoxville features key attractions such as the historic University of Tennessee and the Knoxville Convention Center, suitable for various events. The Thompson–Boling Arena offers entertainment options for families and visitors alike. Best visited in April, July, and September, this area is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in local education, markets, and events.
  • East Knoxville: This neighborhood is a great destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, showcasing attractions like the University of Tennessee and the Knoxville Civic Auditorium and Coliseum, perfect for entertainment. The Knoxville Convention Center also serves as a venue for business events. Peak visitor months are June, July, and October, making it a lively spot for cultural experiences and shopping opportunities.
  • Knoxville West: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and city experiences, Knoxville West is home to the University of Tennessee and Pellissippi State Community College, providing educational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centers and the entertainment at Topgolf Knoxville. With peak visits in March, July, and October, this neighborhood offers a blend of urban vibes and nature, including nearby lakes and national state parks.

10 tips to save on your Knoxville car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance typically allows you to lock in lower prices and enjoy better selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are usually 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 some vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also work, but be sure to return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs an additional fee, but it may be worthwhile for the convenience it offers.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something goes awry during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans include long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Knoxville

The best time to rent a car in and around Knoxville is January and February, when prices and demand are both slightly low, making it a quiet and economical choice. April and May also offer average prices with slightly low demand, providing a nice balance for those looking to travel. However, June through July sees a spike in prices and demand, making it the most expensive period for rentals. Following this, August to October experiences average prices again, while October remains a bit pricier with steady demand.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January37.4°F (3.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July77.2°F (25.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August75.9°F (24.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October59.5°F (15.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
November48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Knoxville

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Knoxville

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $54.

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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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.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$54
 
Our second best deal of the day
$56
 
Our third best deal of the day
$60
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Knoxville?
Within the past seven days, the lowest daily price found for a budget car rental in Knoxville was $54.
Can I rent a car from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)?
You'll find a good variety of rental outlets just a short commute from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). Payless, Budget, Thrifty Car Rental, Dollar and Enterprise are traveler favorites.
What happens if I need to cancel my Knoxville car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours before the pickup time, most prepaid bookings offer a full refund. However, not all are eligible for this, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the rental agreement. Check your itinerary for the details or head to our Customer Service Portal for more information.
Where can I go on a road trip from Knoxville?
Knoxville is full of fun adventures, but don't limit yourself to just the one place. Book a set of wheels and take to the road to explore the surrounding region. Here are some great options we've come up with:

  • Head to Asheville for a fantastic sightseeing adventure. Around 80 miles from Knoxville, it's home to lots of amazing sights, including Biltmore Estate.
  • Why not enjoy all that's on offer in Chattanooga too? Popular sights to see here include Ruby Falls. Chattanooga is 100 miles from Knoxville.
  • Visit Belle Meade Plantation to rediscover nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy or just relax in the fresh air. From Knoxville, it's roughly 170 miles away.

How do I find the best car rental deals in Knoxville with Expedia?
Whatever type of wheels you're looking for, Expedia will help you find the best deal. Just compare the offers from quality rental providers and book the option that works for you. Love to drive away with even more in your wallet? Combine your Knoxville car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Knoxville?
The youngest age you can rent a car in Knoxville is 25. An extra fee for young drivers typically applies, so check before you book and budget for any additional costs. There may also be restrictions on the sorts of cars that can be rented by young drivers. For instance, some outlets will only rent out small to medium-sized cars to young motorists. Rules may vary between companies, so look over the fine print.
What do you need to rent a car in Knoxville?
While rules can differ between rental car outlets, the basics are a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name. You don't need to take out the company's insurance plan. However, proof of your own coverage may be required.
What is the cheapest car rental in Knoxville?
$54 and $56 were the lowest daily prices for rental cars in Knoxville within the past seven days. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Knoxville?
Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then reserve your ideal ride. Whether you're staying put in Knoxville or plan to journey beyond, Expedia will help you find a long-term rental at an incredible rate.
Where can I find a Knoxville car rental if I am younger than 25?
Whether you can rent a vehicle if you're under 25 years in Knoxville often depends on the rental supplier you select. Some places have a surcharge for drivers aged between 21 and 24 years, whereas other companies may not apply any extra fees for this age bracket. It'd be smart to read the terms and conditions of your preferred car rental dealer to avoid extra costs when collecting your car.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Knoxville?
We recommend adding collision protection while reserving your Knoxville car rental with Expedia. This covers your ride against collision damage, theft and vandalism throughout your vacation. Offering up to $35,000 in primary coverage and 24-hour emergency help, you can breathe easy knowing you'll be covered if the unexpected happens. You can opt in to this insurance while reserving your rental vehicle.

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