Cheap Car Rentals San Francisco
Our agencies are renter-rated by real customers, just like you. Rent with confidence from one of the Internet’s most trusted comparison sites for cheap car rentals in San Francisco, allowing you to compare prices, vehicles, and suppliers before you book.
Because of its mild climate and rich cultural diversity, San Francisco is a fantastic destination to explore by car. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and historic cable cars to world-class shopping and waterfront attractions, having a vehicle gives you the flexibility to experience the city on your own schedule. Union Square is home to major department stores, while Union Street offers chic boutiques and cafés. With cheap car hire in San Francisco, you can easily drive to Fisherman’s Wharf to browse souvenir shops, enjoy fresh seafood, and explore the lively waterfront.
Because of its mild climate and rich cultural diversity, San Francisco is a fantastic destination to explore by car. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and historic cable cars to world-class shopping and waterfront attractions, having a vehicle gives you the flexibility to experience the city on your own schedule. Union Square is home to major department stores, while Union Street offers chic boutiques and cafés. With cheap car hire in San Francisco, you can easily drive to Fisherman’s Wharf to browse souvenir shops, enjoy fresh seafood, and explore the lively waterfront.
Why renting a car in San Francisco makes sense
- Greater freedom to explore neighborhoods and nearby destinations
- Easy access to attractions beyond the city center
- Convenient travel for families, groups, and day trips
San Francisco hosts many annual cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The San Francisco Carnival celebrates the city’s multicultural heritage with vibrant parades influenced by Spanish, Brazilian, Trinidadian, and Bolivian traditions. During June, the Summer Concert and Film Series at Fillmore Plaza offers outdoor movie screenings and live performances suitable for all ages.
The city also boasts a strong theatre and performing arts scene. The Orpheum Theatre regularly features Broadway-style productions such as Cats, Rent, The Lion King, and The Phantom of the Opera. Another popular venue is Herbst Theatre, known for hosting classical music, film screenings, lectures, and dance performances. With a car rental in San Francisco, attending shows across different districts is both practical and comfortable.
One of the highlights of securing cheap car rentals in San Francisco is the ability to explore surrounding regions. Napa Valley is a scenic and rewarding drive, offering renowned vineyards, tasting rooms, and picturesque countryside. The drive itself is part of the experience, making it an ideal day trip for visitors.
San Francisco offers accommodation options to suit every travel style and budget. For budget-conscious travellers, the Mayflower Hotel provides a central location near Chinatown and Union Square. The Mithila Hotel, a European-influenced property in downtown San Francisco, offers convenient parking and easy access to public transport and attractions.
For a more luxurious stay, the InterContinental San Francisco is located next to the Moscone Convention Center and features an in-house spa and health centre. The Mandarin Oriental, situated in the financial district, is well known for its refined service and acclaimed dining at its Silk Restaurant, which serves Pacific Rim and American cuisine.
Finding the best car rental San Francisco airport option allows you to begin exploring as soon as you arrive. Booking your vehicle in advance ensures it is ready for collection, saving both time and money during your trip.
Popular attractions easily reached by car include the Aquarium of the Bay, where visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, feeding demonstrations, and guided tours showcasing marine life native to the area. Located close to the airport, it is ideal even for travellers with limited time.
Another popular stop is the Fisherman’s Wharf Wax Museum. In addition to lifelike wax figures of historical and entertainment icons, the museum features themed exhibits and a chamber of horrors for those seeking a thrill. With cheap car rentals in San Francisco, reaching attractions quickly and comfortably is simple, especially for families and groups.
The city also boasts a strong theatre and performing arts scene. The Orpheum Theatre regularly features Broadway-style productions such as Cats, Rent, The Lion King, and The Phantom of the Opera. Another popular venue is Herbst Theatre, known for hosting classical music, film screenings, lectures, and dance performances. With a car rental in San Francisco, attending shows across different districts is both practical and comfortable.
One of the highlights of securing cheap car rentals in San Francisco is the ability to explore surrounding regions. Napa Valley is a scenic and rewarding drive, offering renowned vineyards, tasting rooms, and picturesque countryside. The drive itself is part of the experience, making it an ideal day trip for visitors.
San Francisco offers accommodation options to suit every travel style and budget. For budget-conscious travellers, the Mayflower Hotel provides a central location near Chinatown and Union Square. The Mithila Hotel, a European-influenced property in downtown San Francisco, offers convenient parking and easy access to public transport and attractions.
For a more luxurious stay, the InterContinental San Francisco is located next to the Moscone Convention Center and features an in-house spa and health centre. The Mandarin Oriental, situated in the financial district, is well known for its refined service and acclaimed dining at its Silk Restaurant, which serves Pacific Rim and American cuisine.
Finding the best car rental San Francisco airport option allows you to begin exploring as soon as you arrive. Booking your vehicle in advance ensures it is ready for collection, saving both time and money during your trip.
Popular attractions easily reached by car include the Aquarium of the Bay, where visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, feeding demonstrations, and guided tours showcasing marine life native to the area. Located close to the airport, it is ideal even for travellers with limited time.
Another popular stop is the Fisherman’s Wharf Wax Museum. In addition to lifelike wax figures of historical and entertainment icons, the museum features themed exhibits and a chamber of horrors for those seeking a thrill. With cheap car rentals in San Francisco, reaching attractions quickly and comfortably is simple, especially for families and groups.
Compare agencies in San Francisco by price, vehicle and Renter Ratings.
United Van Rentals
Years in business: 7
A family owned business, serving much of California, Nevada and Arizona
Minimum Age
21
Rents for cash
N
Airport Service
Airport pickup
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
Y
Address: 806 South Airport Boulevard,
San Francisco,CA,
United States
Vehicles: Vans
Black & White Rent A Car
Years in business: 31
A family owned and operated business for the past 26 years. Owners are running the day to day operations and are always on site for the best customer service & support.
Minimum Age
18
Rents for cash
N
Airport Service
Airport pickup
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
Y
Address: 8 10th St,
San Francisco,CA,94103,
United States
Vehicles: Specialty, Motorcycles, Exotics, Luxury, SUVs, Vans, Cars
Priceless
Years in business: 25
Priceless Rent-A-Car was created in response to consumer demand - and good, common sense.Priceless is a division of Bundy American Corporation, an international franchiser of vehicle rental businesses...
Minimum Age
18
Rents for cash
Y
Airport Service
Airport pickup
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
Y
Address: 321 Mason Street,
San Francisco,CA,94102,
United States
Vehicles: Luxury, Trucks, SUVs, Vans, Cars
ENTERPRISE
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 2307 Blanding Ave Unit A,
Alameda,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
Europcar
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: Please Go To Fox Counter 7600 Earhart Rd Car Rental Center,
Oakland,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
ACE
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 820 Malcolm Road,
Burlingame,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
Alamo
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 7600 Earhart Rd,
Oakland,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
Avis
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 1501 El Camino Real Suite 201 El Mercado Shopping Center,
Belmont,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
Budget
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 1501 El Camino Real Suite 201 El Mercado Shopping Center,
Belmont,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
Dollar
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 1815 Bayshore Highway,
Burlingame,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
Hertz
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 1061 San Pablo Ave., Albany, Ca,
Berkeley,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
National
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 7600 Earhart Rd,
Oakland,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
Payless Car Rental
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 7600 Earhart Road,
Oakland,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
Sixt
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 780 N Mcdonnell Rd,
San Francisco,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
Thrifty
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 1061 San Pablo Avenue,
Albany,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
UFO Drive
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: Level 2, Sutter-stockton Garage,
San Francisco,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
Flizzr
Years in business: N/A
Minimum Age
N/A
Rents for cash
N/A
Airport Service
N/A
Local Area Pickup/Dropoff
N/A
Address: 780 N Mcdonnell Rd,
San Francisco,CA,
United States
Vehicles: N/A
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to find cheap car rentals in San Francisco?
Comparing multiple rental agencies online and booking in advance is the most effective way to secure competitive pricing and availability.
Is it cheaper to rent a car at San Francisco International Airport?
Airport rentals offer convenience, but off-airport locations may sometimes provide lower rates. Comparing both options helps identify the best value.
Do I need a car to get around San Francisco?
While public transport is available, a car rental is ideal for visiting surrounding areas such as Napa Valley, coastal routes, and attractions outside the city center.
What type of car is recommended for San Francisco driving?
Compact or midsize vehicles are popular due to narrow streets and limited parking, though larger vehicles may suit families or longer trips.
Are there age restrictions for car rental in San Francisco?
Most agencies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with additional fees often applied to drivers under 25.