$57 Car Rental Rancho Santa Fe, CA

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Rancho Santa Fe

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top Car Deals in Rancho Santa Fe

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Chevrolet Spark

$57

includes taxes & fees
$36 per day
found 4 hours ago
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Toyota Corolla

$59

includes taxes & fees
$37 per day
found 4 hours ago
Midsize Toyota Corolla

Standard

Volkswagen Jetta
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Volkswagen Jetta

$61

includes taxes & fees
$38 per day
found 7 hours ago
Standard Volkswagen Jetta

Compact

Kia Soul
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Kia Soul

$60

includes taxes & fees
$38 per day
found 8 hours ago
Compact Kia Soul

Special

Mystery Car May Be Gas Hybrid or EV
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Mystery Car May Be Gas Hybrid or EV

$60

includes taxes & fees
$38 per day
found 4 hours ago
Special Mystery Car May Be Gas Hybrid or EV

Fullsize Elite Pickup Regular Cab

Ram 2500 Crew
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Ram 2500 Crew

$67

includes taxes & fees
$39 per day
found 7 hours ago
Fullsize Elite Pickup Regular Cab Ram 2500 Crew

Mini Van

Chrysler Voyager
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Chrysler Voyager

$72

includes taxes & fees
$45 per day
found 4 hours ago
Mini Van Chrysler Voyager

Fullsize

Toyota Camry
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Toyota Camry

$70

includes taxes & fees
$46 per day
found 8 hours ago
Fullsize Toyota Camry

Standard Elite SUV

Mercedes GLE - PRESTIGE
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Mercedes GLE - PRESTIGE

$80

includes taxes & fees
$51 per day
found 8 hours ago
Standard Elite SUV Mercedes GLE - PRESTIGE

Luxury

Chrysler 300
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Chrysler 300

$85

includes taxes & fees
$57 per day
found 4 hours ago
Luxury Chrysler 300

Premium

Toyota Crown
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Toyota Crown

$83

includes taxes & fees
$57 per day
found 4 hours ago
Premium Toyota Crown

Midsize Elite

Telsa Short Range Model 3
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Telsa Short Range Model 3

$92

includes taxes & fees
$63 per day
found 7 hours ago
Midsize Elite Telsa Short Range Model 3

Compact Elite Crossover

Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 AMG
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 AMG

$111

includes taxes & fees
$78 per day
found 8 hours ago
Compact Elite Crossover Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 AMG

Premium Elite SUV

Audi Q5 Genesis GV70 BMW X3
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Audi Q5 Genesis GV70 BMW X3

$118

includes taxes & fees
$83 per day
found 6 hours ago
Premium Elite SUV Audi Q5 Genesis GV70 BMW X3

Luxury Elite

Genesis G80E
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Genesis G80E

$118

includes taxes & fees
$83 per day
found 8 hours ago
Luxury Elite Genesis G80E

Oversize SUV

Jeep Grand Wagoneer L
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
San Diego, California, USA
Jeep Grand Wagoneer L

$171

includes taxes & fees
$125 per day
found 7 hours ago
Oversize SUV Jeep Grand Wagoneer L

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Rancho Santa Fe
View all cars
Lowest prices found within the past 4 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Rancho Santa Fe car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Rancho Santa Fe

Renting a car in Rancho Santa Fe offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby attractions such as LEGOLAND® California, located 10 miles away, perfect for family fun, or enjoy a day at Del Mar Beach, just 5 miles from Rancho Santa Fe. The Del Mar Fairgrounds, also 5 miles away, provides additional outdoor family experiences. Having a rental car allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families or those with outdoor gear.

Moreover, you can venture to nearby destinations like Escondido, which is 10 miles away and features the California Center For The Arts and San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park. The neighborhood of Covenant offers access to LEGOLAND® California and the beautiful Del Mar Beach. Fairbanks Ranch is another nearby city where you can enjoy La Jolla Cove and the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Renting a car ensures you can explore all these attractions comfortably and conveniently, enhancing your travel experience in and around Rancho Santa Fe.

Where to stay around Rancho Santa Fe

  • Escondido: Located 10 miles from Rancho Santa Fe, Escondido offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a mix of outdoor and city-themed experiences. Explore attractions like the California Center For The Arts for cultural insights or visit LEGOLAND® California for family fun. For relaxation, consider local resorts and body treatment options. Escondido also features nearby dining choices including restaurants and wineries, making it a well-rounded destination for your stay.
  • Encinitas: Just 5 miles from Rancho Santa Fe, Encinitas is a charming city known for its outdoor and beach experiences. Spend your days at Moonlight State Beach or explore the beautiful San Diego Botanic Garden. With recreation parks and shopping centers nearby, Encinitas is perfect for families. The local food scene includes an array of restaurants and wineries, providing delightful options for dining after a day of exploration.
  • Del Mar: Located 6 miles from Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar is a vibrant beach town that captures the essence of outdoor and family fun. Enjoy the sun at Del Mar Beach or visit the Del Mar Fairgrounds for various events. The picturesque La Jolla Cove is also nearby, offering stunning scenery. Del Mar's selection of restaurants and wineries adds to its appeal, ensuring a pleasant stay for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Rancho Santa Fe

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option 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 in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to find lower rates and have better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good balance of cost, 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 can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be 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 a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Rancho Santa Fe

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Rancho Santa Fe

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $57.

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.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day
$57
Our second best deal of the day
$59
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 Rancho Santa Fe?
The most affordable daily rate in Rancho Santa Fe was $57 based on prices within the last seven days. Browse our wide range of options, from small and affordable vehicles to roll-in-style rides.
Can I rent a car from San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN)?
Car rentals at San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) are situated at the Rental Car Center. Here you'll be able to grab some wheels at Nu Car Rental, Pacific or ZipCar. Hertz and EZ also provide some fantastic deals.
What happens if I need to cancel my Rancho Santa Fe car reservation?
Read through your rental policy to be certain, but most prepaid rentals qualify for a total refund if you notify us more than six hours prior to the pickup time. There are some exemptions though. Your booking will have more information, or just visit our Customer Service Portal.
Where can I go on a road trip from Rancho Santa Fe?
Rancho Santa Fe has plenty to keep you on the move, but don't restrict yourself to only one place. Book a set of wheels and head off to explore the surrounding area. Here are a few places to choose from:
  • You'll find Universal Studios Hollywood and many more amazing attractions in Los Angeles. From Rancho Santa Fe, it's about 95 miles away.
  • Why not enjoy the wonders of Santa Ana too? Unmissable tourist attractions in this colorful city include Santa Ana Zoo. Santa Ana is about 65 miles from Rancho Santa Fe.
  • Venture into nature and appreciate the serenity at Channel Islands National Park. It's approximately 170 miles from Rancho Santa Fe.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Rancho Santa Fe with Expedia?
Check out customer reviews and ratings, choose your favorite ride and compare prices from leading providers. Expedia makes it easy to nab the best deal on your rental wheels. Combine your Rancho Santa Fe car rental with flight or hotel bookings and drive away with even more in your wallet.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Rancho Santa Fe?
In Rancho Santa Fe, the rule is usually 21 years and over. Most companies will charge extra fees for young drivers, which can vary depending on the rental location. Rental agreements for young drivers may restrict certain vehicles, such as large cars, and require comprehensive insurance to be taken out. It's a good idea to read the fine print carefully before booking your wheels.
What do you need to rent a car in Rancho Santa Fe?
Any rental company you choose will require two things — a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. If you decide to opt out of the supplier's insurance plan, proof of other coverage may also be needed. Read your policy thoroughly so you know what to bring when it's time to pick up the keys.
What is the cheapest car rental in Rancho Santa Fe?
We looked into prices over the last seven days and found that the lowest daily rate was $57. The second lowest price to rent a ride in Rancho Santa Fe was $59 a day. 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 Rancho Santa Fe?
Yes. Expedia partners with trusted suppliers that offer long-term rentals for all categories of cars. Take a look at our long-term car rental deals and discover every turn of Rancho Santa Fe — or beyond!
Where can I find a Rancho Santa Fe car rental if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to look into the age policy of the Rancho Santa Fe rental providers you're considering. If you're under the age of 25, some outlets will charge extra fees. It's ideal to know about this before arriving at the desk so you can have the funds ready. Every rental car company has its own rules for younger drivers, so it pays to do your research.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Rancho Santa Fe?
Start your road trip the right way by choosing Expedia's collision protection. While there are all kinds of rental car insurance, this is one you'll need to have. It provides primary coverage for theft, vandalism and collision damage up to $35,000, as well as round-the-clock emergency assistance. Don't wait until you arrive at the rental desk to insure your precious wheels. Opt in to collision protection while reserving your Rancho Santa Fe ride with Expedia and save money and time.
What are the best cheap car rental companies in Rancho Santa?
You can find cheap car rentals in Rancho Santa from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's economy 2/4 door cars. Sixt offers options such as a midsize 2 or 4 door starting from $11 a day, and a midsize SUV starting from $12 a day. Enterprise also provides affordable choices, including a midsize SUV or a compact SUV, both starting from $11 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a car rental that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Rancho Santa.
What are the best luxury car companies in Rancho Santa?
For luxury car rental in Rancho Santa, you can find premium options through providers like Sixt and Enterprise. Sixt offers vehicles such as a fullsize elite 2 or 4 door starting from $16 a day, or a fullsize elite SUV starting from $21 a day. Enterprise also provides high-end choices, including a premium elite SUV starting from $37 a day, and a luxury elite SUV starting from $51 a day. These luxury rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for a more sophisticated travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Rancho Santa.
Can I rent a car one-way in Rancho Santa?
Yes, a one-way car rental in Rancho Santa is available and can be a convenient option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $10 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise often have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in Rancho Santa and drop it off at a different location. This flexibility is ideal for travelers planning to explore beyond the immediate area without needing to return to their original pickup point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Rancho Santa.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Rancho Santa?
Yes, round-trip car rentals are readily available in Rancho Santa, with prices starting from $10 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location in Rancho Santa generally helps avoid one-way drop-off fees, making it a cost-effective choice for exploring the local area. Providers such as Sixt and Enterprise offer wide availability for round-trip rentals, providing convenience and value for your trip. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Rancho Santa.
What are the best car rentals in Rancho Santa?
Car rentals in Rancho Santa offer a wide variety of vehicle types to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard elite SUV
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, offering ease of driving. Families often prefer SUVs or minivans for their spaciousness and luggage capacity, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for easy parking and fuel efficiency. Choose a vehicle based on your group size, luggage requirements, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Rancho Santa.
What are the best car rentals in Rancho Santa for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Rancho Santa for solo travelers are typically economy and compact classes, which are small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for exploring at your own pace.
  • An economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $12 a day, fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, making it nimble for city streets and simple to park.
  • A compact SUV, starting from $11 a day, fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a bit more room for luggage while remaining fuel-efficient.
Both options comfortably accommodate a solo traveler and their belongings. If you plan longer drives or prefer a higher ride, a compact SUV provides extra comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Rancho Santa.
What are the best car rentals in Rancho Santa for couples?
The best car rentals in Rancho Santa for couples offer a balance of comfort and easy handling for two travelers.
  • A midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day, provides comfortable seating for two and room for up to 3 large suitcases, ideal for smooth cruising.
  • A compact SUV, starting from $11 a day, fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a higher ride and more versatility for day trips around the region.
Both options provide ample space for a couple and their luggage without being difficult to park. For a special experience, consider a sports car or a coupe for scenic drives around Rancho Santa. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Rancho Santa.
What are the best car rentals in Rancho Santa for families?
The best car rentals in Rancho Santa for families are those that offer ample space for passengers and luggage.
  • A midsize SUV, starting from $11 a day, seats up to 5 people and can accommodate up to 3 large suitcases, making it suitable for families with car seats and strollers.
  • A mini passenger van, starting from $28 a day, seats up to 8 people and has room for up to 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families or those with significant luggage.
These vehicle types provide the comfort and capacity needed for family trips around Rancho Santa. Booking 4+ weeks ahead is advisable, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability, especially during busy travel periods. Consider adding a GPS to your rental for easier navigation. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Rancho Santa.
Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Rancho Santa?
Yes, you can find electric and hybrid car rental options in Rancho Santa. Sixt offers hybrid vehicles starting from $11 a day and electric vehicles starting from $13 a day. Enterprise, Thrifty Car Rental, and Dollar Rent A Car also provide hybrid options, all starting from $11 a day. These eco-friendly choices are widely available on Expedia. When planning your trip with an electric vehicle, consider your route and potential charging stops for journeys beyond 200 miles.
What is the best time to book a car in Rancho Santa?
Booking your car rental in Rancho Santa approximately 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. While the detailed seasonality flag indicates it is not seasonal, prices can still fluctuate based on demand, especially during holidays or local events. Rentals can start from as little as $11 a day. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup, so you can book early and rebook if rates drop closer to your travel date.
What are the best car companies in Rancho Santa?
Car rentals in Rancho Santa are available from trusted providers such as Sixt, Enterprise, and Thrifty Car Rental, offering a range of vehicles suited to various travel needs. Sixt provides options like a midsize 2 or 4 door starting from $11 a day, and a midsize SUV starting from $12 a day, which are versatile for both city driving and longer trips. Enterprise offers a midsize SUV or a compact SUV, both starting from $11 a day, providing comfort and space. Thrifty Car Rental also has competitive options, including a midsize SUV or a midsize 4-5 door, both starting from $11 a day. When choosing, consider a compact class for easy maneuvering and better fuel efficiency on local roads, or an SUV for more space and comfort on longer drives. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Rancho Santa.
What are good day trip destinations from Rancho Santa Fe by rental car?
For memorable day trips from Rancho Santa Fe, consider exploring the beautiful Southern California coastline and family-friendly attractions. These destinations are easily accessible with a rental car, and a midsize car or an SUV provides ample comfort and space for luggage, especially for families. Remember to fuel up before you go, and consider booking a car with flexible cancellation policies if your plans might change. Top day-trip destinations include:
  • Del Mar Beach, just 7 miles away, is a quick 15-minute drive, offering a scenic coastal escape perfect for couples and families.
  • LEGOLAND® California, located 12 miles from Rancho Santa Fe, is an excellent choice for families and can be reached in about 25 minutes.
  • La Jolla Beach, approximately 14 miles away and a 30-minute drive, provides stunning ocean views and tide pools for exploration.
  • Mission Bay, about 21 miles from Rancho Santa Fe, is a 40-minute drive and offers various water activities and park areas for all ages.
  • The iconic Hotel del Coronado, 29 miles away, is a 50-minute drive and a historic landmark worth visiting for its architecture and beachfront setting.
For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Rancho Santa Fe.
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 Rancho Santa Fe?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Rancho Santa Fe. 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 Rancho Santa Fe?
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 Rancho Santa Fe?
Budget car rental in Rancho Santa Fe can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $57. 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 Rancho Santa Fe?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Rancho Santa Fe. 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 Rancho Santa Fe car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Rancho Santa Fe?
To rent a car in Rancho Santa Fe, 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 Rancho Santa Fe car rental?
If you need to cancel your Rancho Santa Fe 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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia