$36 Car Rental Santa Rosa, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Rosa

Renting a car in Santa Rosa offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace, making it a popular choice for wine lovers, adventurers, and road trippers. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans as you visit various attractions. For outdoor enthusiasts, the scenic Russian River is located only 11 miles away, providing opportunities for outdoor experiences. Families can enjoy the Sonoma County Fairgrounds located right in Santa Rosa, while culture seekers can explore the Charles M. Schulz Museum, also in the area.

A rental car further enhances your ability to explore nearby destinations such as Calistoga, just 12 miles away, home to the Old Faithful Geyser of California and the Petrified Forest. Fulton, only 5 miles distant, offers additional access to the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Russian River. Meanwhile, Sebastopol, located 7 miles from Santa Rosa, features attractions like Sonoma County Fairgrounds and more. Whether you're seeking romance, scenic views, or family-friendly activities, a rental car allows you to experience all that Santa Rosa and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Rosa

• Midsize car: Ideal for couples and families, the midsize option accommodates up to 5 travelers and allows for 3 large suitcases. This car type is perfect for those looking to explore Santa Rosa's beautiful scenery and enjoy outdoor adventures while providing ample space for luggage and comfort during your journey.
• Fullsize car: Perfect for families and groups, the fullsize car fits 5 travelers comfortably and can handle up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option offers the flexibility needed for wine lovers and road trippers who want to experience the sights and attractions around Santa Rosa without sacrificing comfort or space.
• Compact car: A great choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the compact car fits up to 5 travelers and accommodates 3 medium suitcases. This option is especially appealing for those who appreciate easy maneuverability in the city and efficient parking while enjoying the scenic routes that Santa Rosa has to offer.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Rosa

• Avis: Avis operates 2 rental locations in the Santa Rosa area and is known for its friendly service and short wait times. With an overall customer rating of 7.2 out of 10, travelers appreciate the ease of the rental process. The most popular vehicles booked with Avis include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize options, making it a solid choice for those seeking comfort and space during their exploration of the region.
• Enterprise: Also featuring 2 rental locations in Santa Rosa, Enterprise is highly regarded for its excellent customer service and flexible rental options. Travelers frequently choose Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, which cater well to different needs. The convenience of having multiple locations in the area makes Enterprise a practical option for visitors looking to explore Santa Rosa and beyond.
• Budget: Budget has 1 rental location in Santa Rosa, offering a straightforward and efficient rental experience. Known for its competitive rates, Budget frequently serves travelers looking for Midsize and Fullsize vehicles. This supplier's focus on affordability without compromising service makes it a great choice for tourists wanting to navigate the scenic routes of Sonoma County.

Where to go in and around Santa Rosa

• Calistoga: Located 12 miles away from Santa Rosa, Calistoga is a charming city known for its outdoor wellness and relaxation experiences. Visitors flock here for body treatments and spa services, especially during peak months like April, July, and October. While exploring, don’t miss the famous Old Faithful Geyser of California, the Napa County Fairgrounds, and the Petrified Forest—each offering unique outdoor adventures and scenic beauty.
• Fulton: Only 5 miles from Santa Rosa, Fulton offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and entertainment. Popular among travelers in April to May and July, this city features attractions like the Charles M. Schulz Museum for culture enthusiasts, the scenic Russian River for those seeking beautiful views, and the Sonoma County Fairgrounds for family-friendly experiences. Enjoy the vibrant recreational areas and boardwalks that make Fulton a great spot for a getaway.
• Sebastopol: Situated 7 miles from Santa Rosa, Sebastopol is perfect for those looking for outdoor and scenic adventures. With peak visitor numbers in April, July, and October, this city features highlights such as the Sonoma County Fairgrounds and the Charles M. Schulz Museum. The nearby Russian River provides stunning scenery and outdoor enjoyment, making it an ideal location for relaxation and exploration.

10 tips to save on your Santa Rosa car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, making it wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better vehicle availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars 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 premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. 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 vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most favorable option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—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 it may be worthwhile for the convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unnecessary expenses and offers added 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 plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that include unlimited mileage to avoid 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 and around Santa Rosa

The best value period to rent a car in and around Santa Rosa is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. Following closely are February and April, which also offer lower prices and less crowded conditions. On the other hand, June through August are the most expensive months, with high demand and slightly high prices, especially in July, when rental activity peaks. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.0°F (12.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
May	59.5°F (15.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	67.3°F (19.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	67.5°F (19.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	61.3°F (16.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Santa Rosa

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Santa Rosa

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $36.

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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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