
The best places to rent a car in NYC are at major airports (JFK, LaGuardia, Newark) for convenience, or in neighborhoods outside the immediate city center like Long Island City or Hoboken for better value. To get the best deal, always compare prices online using aggregate sites before you book.
Renting from an airport location is the most straightforward option, especially if you're flying in. These facilities are open 24/7 and offer the widest selection of vehicles from all major companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. However, you'll typically pay premium rates and high taxes and fees.
For lower daily rates, consider rental offices in residential or commercial areas just outside Manhattan. Locations in Long Island City (Queens), Hoboken (New Jersey), or Downtown Brooklyn are easily accessible by subway and often have significantly cheaper prices. The trade-off is more limited hours and potentially smaller fleets.
Your booking strategy is critical. Use comparison websites to see real-time prices. I also recommend checking the rental company's own website for exclusive discounts. Be mindful of the "under-25 fee" if you're a younger driver, which can add a substantial daily cost.
| Rental Company | Key NYC Airport Locations | Typical Compact Car Rate (Daily) | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprise | JFK, LGA, EWR | $65 - $95 | Often praised for customer service |
| Hertz | JFK, LGA, EWR | $70 - $100 | Gold Member rewards can speed up pickup |
| Avis | JFK, LGA, EWR | $68 - $98 | Frequent corporate rental choice |
| Budget | JFK, LGA | $60 - $90 | Known for competitive pricing |
| National | JFK, LGA, EWR | $75 - $105 | Emerald Aisle for members to choose own car |
| Alamo | JFK | $62 - $92 | Good for leisure travel packages |
| Sixt | JFK, LGA | $55 - $85 | Often features premium brands in fleet |
| Thrifty | JFK | $58 - $88 | Budget-friendly option, but fewer locations |
Before you finalize, check reviews for your specific rental location on Google Maps to see comments about wait times or vehicle cleanliness. Remember that parking in Manhattan is notoriously expensive and difficult, so only rent a car if you genuinely need to travel outside the city.


