Top Car Rentals in New York: Best Deals & Tips for 2025

New York City is known for its hustle and bustle, iconic landmarks, and endless attractions. While public transportation is a popular choice for getting around the city, renting a car can provide a flexible and convenient option for those looking to explore beyond the city limits or navigate with ease through its diverse neighborhoods. Whether you’re planning a road trip, or business trip, or simply want to experience NYC at your own pace, renting a car in New York is a great solution. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about car rentals in New York, including the best services, tips, and how to find the most affordable options.

Why Rent a Car in New York?

1. Convenience and Flexibility: While New York City has an extensive public transportation system, there are times when a rental car offers more flexibility—whether it’s for a day trip to the Hamptons, visiting upstate New York, or exploring less accessible areas around the city.

2. Comfort and Privacy: Renting a car gives you the freedom to travel comfortably with your family, friends, or business partners without relying on crowded public transport or expensive taxis.

3. Exploring Beyond the City: New York City is only the beginning of what the state has to offer. Renting a car gives you the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas, like the Catskills, Long Island, and the Adirondacks, at your own pace.

Tips for Renting a Car in New York

1. Book in Advance: New York City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and car rental demand can be high, especially during peak seasons. Booking your car rental ahead of time ensures you get the best rates and availability.

2. Know the Rental Requirements: Car rental companies typically require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some companies may charge an additional fee for drivers under 25. Ensure you have a valid driver’s license and a credit card for the reservation.

3. Choose the Right Vehicle: New York City’s streets can be narrow and parking can be challenging. Opt for a smaller vehicle or compact car to navigate the city easily. If you plan to travel outside the city, consider a midsize or SUV for more comfort on longer drives.

4. Understand the Insurance Options: Rental car insurance is often an optional extra, but it’s essential to check whether your personal car insurance or credit card covers rentals. Be sure to understand what’s included in your rental agreement and what’s not.

5. Watch Out for Hidden Fees: Many rental companies charge additional fees for things like GPS, car seat rentals, or young driver surcharges. Make sure to check the fine print before finalizing your reservation to avoid surprise charges.

Top Car Rental Services in New York City

When it comes to car rentals, New York City offers a wide range of options. From budget-friendly options to luxury vehicles, there’s a rental service for every type of traveler. Choosing the right car rental service in NYC depends on your needs, budget, and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top car rental companies you’ll find in New York City:

Legoat Transportation

At Legoat Transportation, we understand that every traveler has unique needs, whether you’re exploring the city, embarking on a road trip, or attending a business event. We provide a seamless car rental experience with a fleet of well-maintained vehicles suited for all types of travelers. From compact cars perfect for navigating the city’s narrow streets to luxurious SUVs for those seeking comfort, we’ve got you covered. Our service is designed to make your trip to New York hassle-free, with a user-friendly booking process and competitive pricing.

Whether you need a car for just a day or an extended stay, Legoat Transportation offers flexibility with daily, weekly, and monthly rental plans. Additionally, our cars come with essential features like GPS, Bluetooth, and ample luggage space. Explore New York City and beyond in comfort and style—visit Legoat Transportation to book your rental today.

1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car:

With locations throughout New York City, Enterprise.com is one of the most well-known and trusted car rental services. They offer many vehicles, from compact cars to luxury options, and provide excellent customer service. Whether you’re picking up a car at the airport or at a downtown location, Enterprise makes renting a car easy. They also offer rewards for frequent renters through their Enterprise Plus program.

2. Hertz Car Rental:

Hertz is a global leader in car rentals, offering a range of vehicles including SUVs, minivans, and sedans. With convenient locations at both airports and in the city, Hertz is a top choice for both short and long-term rentals. Their premium options, including luxury cars like the Mercedes-Benz and BMW, are perfect for travelers looking for comfort and style. Hertz also offers a mobile app for easy reservations, making the process faster and more convenient.

3. Avis Car Rental:

Avis provides a broad selection of vehicles, ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Their fleet includes compact cars, SUVs, and minivans, and they cater to all kinds of travel needs. Avis’s EasyPass service allows drivers to bypass tolls, which can be incredibly helpful in New York. They also offer a mobile app for seamless booking and check-in, making the entire process smoother.

4. Budget Car Rental:

Known for offering affordable rental options, Budget Car Rental is perfect for those on a budget. They provide a variety of vehicles at competitive prices and have a strong presence in New York City. Budget’s great pricing combined with a rewards program makes it an attractive option for both casual renters and business travelers. Budget also offers great customer service, making it a reliable choice for a no-frills rental experience.

5. Sixt Rent a Car:

Sixt is a premium car rental company located across the city, offering high-end vehicles for those looking for a luxury experience in New York. Whether you’re looking for a BMW, Audi, or Mercedes, Sixt has you covered. Sixt is particularly popular among travelers who want to enjoy a luxury car experience without the hassle of ownership. Their locations are convenient, with pick-up points at major airports and throughout Manhattan.

How to Find Affordable Car Rentals in New York

1. Compare Prices Online:

Websites like Kayak, Expedia, and Rentalcars.com allow you to compare rental prices across various car rental companies to find the best deal. Many of these sites also offer filter options to help you find the vehicle that best suits your needs, from compact cars to luxury rentals. This ensures you can make an informed decision based on both price and features.

2. Use Discount Codes:

Many car rental services offer promo codes for online bookings. Whether it’s a seasonal discount, a coupon from a membership program, or a promotional offer from the rental agency itself, using a discount code can significantly lower the cost of your car rental. Be sure to check the rental service’s website and third-party deal sites before finalizing your booking.

3. Consider Off-Airport Locations:

Renting a car at an airport location can sometimes be more expensive due to additional fees and surcharges. Consider picking up your rental car at a location in the city instead. Often, these locations are still conveniently situated and offer lower rates than their airport counterparts.

4. Rent for Longer Periods:

Rental companies may offer discounts for longer rental periods. If you’re planning to rent a car for several days or weeks, ask about any available deals. Renting for a week can sometimes be cheaper than renting for just a few days, especially if the rental company offers a “weekly rate.”

5. Avoid Unnecessary Extras:

If you’re looking to save money, avoid renting additional services like GPS, car seat rentals, or toll passes unless necessary. You can often use your smartphone for navigation or bring your own child seat, which can save you money in the long run. Be sure to double-check the costs of these add-ons before you confirm your booking.

Popular Destinations to Explore with Your Rental Car

The Hamptons: A luxury getaway located just a few hours from NYC, perfect for relaxing beaches and upscale dining.

Catskills Mountains: Great for nature lovers, the Catskills offer hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views.

Long Island Wine Country: Experience the beautiful vineyards of Long Island’s North Fork for wine tasting and relaxation.

Upstate New York: Head north to explore small towns, historical sites, and the picturesque landscape of upstate New York.

The Adirondacks: If you enjoy the outdoors, take a trip to the Adirondack Mountains for hiking, skiing, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Conclusion

Renting a car in New York provides unparalleled convenience and flexibility, whether you’re a local or a tourist. From easily navigating the city to exploring nearby destinations, the possibilities are endless when you have a car at your disposal. To ensure you get the best rates and the most suitable vehicle, make sure to book in advance, compare prices, and understand your rental terms. Explore New York and beyond with ease—your adventure awaits!