Columbus

Cheap Car Rentals in Columbus from $30

Columbus, OH
Fri 4/26
Noon
Fri 5/3
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Columbus car rentals in 2024

Get helpful information to start your search for the perfect car rental in Columbus. The average price data is based on the last 12 months and was last updated on April 19, 2024.

Most popular company

BUDGET

Price of gas per gallon

$3.86

Average price per day

$65

Cheapest price per day

$30

What is the cheapest time to rent a car in Columbus?

Discover the most affordable period to rent a car in Columbus and save money on your trip. The monthly average price data is based on historical data over the last year and was last updated on April 19, 2024.

January

$50

February

$54

March

$60

April

$61

May

$61

June

$69

July

$68

August

$68

September

$62

October

$62

November

$61

December

$60

Currently, the cheapest month to rent a car in Columbus is January. The most expensive time to rent a car is June. The cheapest prices for each month are shown above, but prices will vary based on availability, how far out you book your rental car, and of course, car type.

Compare available car types for rental in Columbus

Compare and contrast the various car types offered for rental in Columbus to find the perfect fit for your trip. Price data is based on averages over the last 12 months and was last updated on April 19, 2024.

Small cars

$47 - $73

All Car Types

$58 - $94

To rent a small car in Columbus, the United States, you would pay an average price of $60/day. January is the cheapest month to rent a small car in Columbus, the United States (~$47/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is June (~$73/day). In fact, January is about 22% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a small car rental for Columbus. When comparing with other car types available for rental in Columbus, renting a small car saves you 19% in costs. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best Columbus small car rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a medium car in Columbus, the United States, you would pay an average price of $63/day. January is the cheapest month to rent a medium car in Columbus, the United States (~$52/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is June (~$76/day). In fact, January is about 18% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a medium car rental for Columbus. When comparing with other car types available for rental in Columbus, renting a medium car saves you 15% in costs. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best Columbus medium car rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a large car in Columbus, the United States, you would pay an average price of $79/day. January is the cheapest month to rent a large car in Columbus, the United States (~$56/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is July (~$104/day). In fact, January is about 30% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a large car rental for Columbus. When comparing with other car types available for rental in Columbus, renting a large car is 8% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best Columbus large car rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a SUV in Columbus, the United States, you would pay an average price of $81/day. February is the cheapest month to rent a SUV in Columbus, the United States (~$65/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is July (~$97/day). In fact, February is about 20% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a SUV rental for Columbus. When comparing with other car types available for rental in Columbus, renting a SUV is 9% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best Columbus SUV rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a van in Columbus, the United States, you would pay an average price of $111/day. October is the cheapest month to rent a van in Columbus, the United States (~$88/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is June (~$136/day). In fact, October is about 21% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a van rental for Columbus. When comparing with other car types available for rental in Columbus, renting a van is 34% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best Columbus van rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a luxury car in Columbus, the United States, you would pay an average price of $92/day. March is the cheapest month to rent a luxury car in Columbus, the United States (~$67/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is June (~$112/day). In fact, March is about 28% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a luxury car rental for Columbus. When comparing with other car types available for rental in Columbus, renting a luxury car is 20% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best Columbus luxury car rental prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To rent a convertible in Columbus, the United States, you would pay an average price of $99/day. November is the cheapest month to rent a convertible in Columbus, the United States (~$61/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is April (~$142/day). In fact, November is about 39% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a convertible rental for Columbus. When comparing with other car types available for rental in Columbus, renting a convertible is 26% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity.

Mini Hatch$30/day
4
M
A/C
Mini Hatch
Chevrolet Spark$32/day
2
M
A/C
Chevrolet Spark

Tips for renting a car in Columbus

Browse helpful tips for renting a car in Columbus including age restrictions, car type suggestions and more. Tips were last updated on April 19, 2024.
  • When flying into Columbus, you will likely land at John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), about 6 miles east of Columbus city center. The rental companies at the airport include Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget. The rental counters are in a separate facility, the Rental Car Facility, accessible by shuttle service. The complimentary Rental Car Shuttles pick-up location is outside the baggage claim area on the ground transport level of each terminal. Consider making a reservation for the rental car to ensure availability.
  • If you want to pick up your rental car in one location and drop it off in a different place, consider hiring from a car rental company offering one-way rental, including Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, Thrifty, and Dollar, at an additional fee. Some of the car rentals may have mileage limitations and additional mileage fees. During booking, state your desired drop-off location at the car rental agency. Ensure you reserve a one-way rental, as one-way rental cars are in high demand in Columbus.
  • When visiting Columbus, consider renting an eco-friendly car for environmentally sustainable travel throughout the city. There are various perks to renting an eco-friendly vehicle, including fuel efficiency leading to a reduction in fuel expenses and a contribution to the city's environmental sustainability, as most eco-friendly vehicles have low to zero carbon emissions. The car rental companies in Columbus offering eco-friendly vehicles include Avis and Budget, which both have pick-up and drop-off locations at CMH. The car rentals offer full-size hybrid vehicles for an eco-friendly option.

Top rental agencies in Columbus

Explore the leading car rental agencies in Columbus known for their outstanding service and extensive range of vehicles to choose from. There are currently 8 car rental companies in Columbus. Reviews were last updated on April 19, 2024.
Have a look at the top rental car agencies available in Columbus, including Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Alamo and Hertz. Reviews, pricing info, pickup locations, and other important details are available to aid your decision.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8.5
Very good
197 reviews11 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

8.4

Comfort

8.5

Overall

8.4

Pick-up/drop-off

8.4

Value

8.4

Alamo

8.1
Very good
110 reviews1 location
Overview

Cleanliness

8.3

Comfort

8.3

Overall

8.1

Pick-up/drop-off

8.1

Value

8.1

Hertz

7.4
Good
126 reviews9 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.7

Comfort

7.8

Overall

7.4

Pick-up/drop-off

7.4

Value

7.0

Dollar

7.0
Good
132 reviews1 location
Overview

Cleanliness

7.2

Comfort

7.3

Overall

6.9

Pick-up/drop-off

6.9

Value

6.9

Budget

6.3
Okay
180 reviews7 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

6.7

Comfort

6.8

Overall

6.2

Pick-up/drop-off

6.1

Value

6.2

Avis

7.1
Good
54 reviews7 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

7.4

Comfort

8.1

Overall

7.1

Pick-up/drop-off

6.8

Value

7.1

Thrifty

7.1
Good
74 reviews1 location
Overview

Cleanliness

7.6

Comfort

7.5

Overall

7.0

Pick-up/drop-off

7.2

Value

6.9

Payless

6.0
Okay
36 reviews1 location
Overview

Cleanliness

6.9

Comfort

7.3

Overall

5.9

Pick-up/drop-off

6.1

Value

6.6

Best Columbus car rental deals found

Browse through a selection of recently found affordable car rental deals in Columbus. Plan your trip with ease and find the perfect rental option for your needs. There are currently 8 rental car agencies in Columbus with an average daily rate of $38. Data was last updated on April 19, 2024.
These are the best deals we've found on rentals cars in Columbus. Be sure to confirm the details of the deal, such as car type, daily rate, and pickup location.
Mini Hatch$30/day
4
M
A/C
Mini Hatch
Nissan Sentra$30/day
5
M
A/C
Nissan Sentra
Kia Picanto$32/day
2
M
A/C
Kia Picanto

Car rental FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions about car rentals in Columbus, including policies, requirements, and more. FAQs were last updated on April 19, 2024.
  • What are the requirements for renting a car in Columbus?

    To rent a car in Columbus, you must first meet the age requirements for renting a vehicle with car rental agencies in the city. Most car rental companies allow passengers at least 21 years old to rent a car. However, some car rentals may require renters to be at least 25 years with renters aged 21 to 24 paying an additional young renter fee. You must have a valid driver's license held for at least one year, your identification documents, and a credit or debit card for some rental agencies. Some rental companies in Columbus may require a rental deposit if you don't have a credit card; therefore, be prepared for the deposit payment beforehand. Ensure you have your insurance documents ready if you use personal insurance coverage.

  • Can I cross the border with a rental car from Columbus?

    You can cross international borders with a rental car from Columbus, provided you get the permit from your rental agency. Cross-border travel costs additional fees. The rental companies in Columbus offering cross-border travel include Hertz, Budget, National, Alamo, and Enterprise. With your rental car, you can cross international borders into Canada using the Ambassador Bridge in Detroit-Windsor, the Peace Bridget in Buffalo-Fort Erie, and the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron-Sarnia. Ensure your insurance covers cross-border travel. To cross the border with your rental car from Columbus, ensure you always have the rental agreement with you, vehicle documents, driver's license, identification documents, and insurance documents.

  • Which car rental companies in Columbus offer accessible vehicles?

    If you have special needs, consider renting an accessible vehicle from one of the car rental companies available across the city for an easy driving experience in Columbus. Several car rental agencies offer accessible vehicles, including Enterprise, National, and Hertz. Hertz rental company offers accessible vehicles through an accessibility program. The cars feature spinner knobs, hand controls, transfer boards, and left-foot accelerators to aid in the ease of driving for passengers with special needs. Enterprise and National also run programs offering accessible vehicles for rent featuring wheelchair ramps, lifts, and hand controls. The car rental companies in Columbus provide assistance services to improve the rental process for renters with special needs.

  • What is the cheapest rental car found in Columbus?

    In the past two weeks, Cheapflights users have found many deals under $65/day when booking a rental car in Columbus. The best deal a user found was for $31/day from Budget, booked on Apr. 14.

  • What car rental company is typically the cheapest in Columbus?

    According to our data, users have found the cheapest deals when booking a rental car in Columbus from the following companies over the past two weeks: Budget ($30/day), Turo ($32/day), and Payless ($39/day).

  • Which car rental company is considered to be the best in Columbus?

    Taking our users’ ratings and reviews into consideration, Enterprise Rent-A-Car (8.5 rating), Alamo (8.2 rating) and National (7.7 rating) seem to be the best rental car companies in Columbus.

  • What are gas prices like in Columbus?

    The average gas price in Columbus is $3.86/gallon over the past month, costing you anywhere between $46 and $66 to fill up a car’s gas tank.

  • How much does it cost to rent a car in Columbus for a week from Budget?

    Budget is one of the top picks in Columbus. They can have you in a rental car for about $464 per week on average.

  • How far in advance should I rent a car in Columbus for the best price?

    Generally, for a better deal in Columbus it’s recommended to book in a timely manner (to save up to 30%). Cheapflights recommends you book around 7 days prior to your pickup date. Booking as early as you can also increases the likelihood that you’ll get the ideal car.

  • Can I rent a car for a month in Columbus?

    Yes, cars are available to be rented out for an entire month in Columbus.

  • How much does it cost to rent a car in Columbus for a month?

    We’ve recently found that Budget offers you prices that are 64% cheaper than the average rate available for a long-term rental. The average cost of a car rental in Columbus for a month is $1,987. Check Cheapflights to compare pricing and options for your rental car.

  • How much is a car rental in Columbus for a weekend?

    Car rental prices in Columbus are typically $85 for the weekend. On Cheapflights, you’ll be able to find great car rental deals on any type of vehicle. However, consider renting a Compact to save money on your trip to $85. Our users have found prices for Compact car rentals in May to be on average $72 per day.

  • What car do most people rent in Columbus?

    The majority of Cheapflights travelers prefer to rent a Mini (Chrysler Pacifica) in Columbus, making it the most popular option.

See more FAQs

Small car rentals in Columbus

Find small car rental deals in Columbus from well-known providers in the area and save on gas mileage with the options provided below. small car rentals in Columbus cost an average of $48 per day. Price data was last updated on April 19, 2024.
Hyundai i10$47/day
2
M
A/C
Hyundai i10
Hyundai i10$48/day
2
M
A/C
Hyundai i10
Hyundai i10$48/day
2
M
A/C
Hyundai i10

Luxury car rentals in Columbus

Find luxury car rental deals in Columbus from well-known providers in the area and save on gas mileage with the options provided below. luxury car rentals in Columbus cost an average of $47 per day. Price data was last updated on April 19, 2024.
Browse through some of the best options we've found for luxury car rentals in Columbus. Be sure that the car type, dates, pickup location and other key details suit your needs.
Chrysler 300$42/day
5
M
A/C
Chrysler 300
Chrysler 300$42/day
5
M
A/C
Chrysler 300
Chrysler 300$45/day
5
M
A/C
Chrysler 300

Van rentals in Columbus

Find van rental deals in Columbus from well-known providers in the area and save on gas mileage with the options provided below. van rentals in Columbus cost an average of $48 per day. Price data was last updated on April 19, 2024.
These are some of the best deals we've found on van rentals in the Columbus area at the moment. If you're not finding the right deal for your van rental, check back soon as deals are constantly being refreshed.
Toyota Sienna$45/day
5
5
M
A/C
Toyota Sienna
Chrysler Town & Country$45/day
5
M
A/C
Chrysler Town & Country
Chrysler Town & Country$47/day
5
M
A/C
Chrysler Town & Country

Car rentals by fuel type in Columbus

Browse car rentals by fuel type in Columbus. Currently, Electric cars are the cheapest to rent in Columbus. Deals were last updated on April 19, 2024.

Browse through car rental deals by fuel type in Columbus. There are currently 3 fuel types to choose from with Electric being the cheapest ($27+).

Electric

Electric

Gas/Diesel

Gas/Diesel

Hybrid

Hybrid

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