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Finding a car rental in Buford is easy with Road Genius. Compare prices of vehicles from dozens of suppliers in Georgia with no booking fees. Whether you fly into Atlanta Airport or prefer an in-town pickup, our search shows real-time deals on everything from compact cars to roomy SUVs without the typical airport markups. Book early to lock in low Buford car rental rates for Lake Lanier and Mall of Georgia shopping sprees.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 529181
Location Pros Cons
Atlanta Airport (ATL)
  • 24/7 service
  • Large selection of vehicles
  • Immediate availability after landing
  • All major rental companies on-site
  • About 18% more expensive than city locations
  • $5/day Customer Facility Charge
  • 11% airport concession fee
  • Wait times of 45-90 minutes during peak periods
Buford City
  • Lower rates without airport fees
  • Personalized service
  • Shorter wait times (usually 10-20 minutes)
  • Limited business hours (usually 8AM-6PM weekdays, shorter on weekends)
  • Often closed on Sundays
  • Smaller vehicle selection
  • Need to arrange transportation from airport
  • Transport Options: Groome Transportation operates a shuttle from ATL to Buford (about 1 hour, $30) running multiple times daily.

Car Rental Prices

How much does it cost to rent a car in Buford?

On average, car rentals in Buford cost around $75 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $30 per day.

Saving Tips
  • Compare ATL vs Buford pick-ups
    Avoid the 11% airport concession fee and $5 per day facility charge by renting in Buford. Even after a $30 Groome shuttle from ATL, a weeklong trip usually comes out cheaper.
  • Peak summer? Lock in 3-4 weeks early
    Rates jump up to 50% for July and Lake Lanier weekends. Book a bit ahead only for those peak dates. In quiet months like January you can wait and often score last-minute deals.
  • Play with pickup days
    Sunday pickups are tricky because many Buford counters close early. Shifting to Monday morning can dodge weekend surcharges and give you more vehicle choices.
  • Right-size your ride
    Compact cars handle Buford's suburban roads fine and run about 30-40% less than SUVs. Upgrade only if you truly need the cargo room for lake gear.
  • Watch the fuel stops
    Top off in town where prices are lower than stations near ATL or I-85 exits. A single fill-up on a midsize can save you $5-10.

Parking and Driving

Buford offers plenty of places to park throughout the city, mostly free or at minimal cost.

  • Downtown Buford: Free street parking and public lots are available, usually limited to 2-3 hours.

  • Shopping Centers: Free parking at Mall of Georgia and other retail areas.

  • Lake Lanier: Various access points have fees at state-managed areas.

  • Georgia has no toll roads that you must use (optional express lanes exist on some highways).

  • Speed limits: 70 mph on rural interstates, 65 mph on urban interstates, 55 mph on other highways, 30 mph in urban districts.
  • School zones have strict enforcement using speed cameras (25 mph when lights flash).
  • Georgia's Hands-Free Law prohibits holding or touching a phone while driving.
  • Right turns on red are allowed after a complete stop unless signed otherwise.
  • Seat belts are required for all occupants.
Why rent a car in Buford

Rent a car so you can visit:

  • Lake Lanier – Buford Dam area

  • Mall of Georgia

  • Stone Mountain Park

  • Chattahoochee River – parks

  • Chateau Elan Winery

Driving Distances from Buford

FAQs

Is it better to rent a car at Atlanta Airport or in Buford?
If you get in late or need a car right away, renting at the airport is easier because they offer 24/7 service. If you're staying in Buford for a bit before you need a car, you can save about 15-20% by renting one in town.

What type of vehicle is best for visiting Buford?
Most visitors find that standard sedans or small SUVs work well. If you're planning activities at Lake Lanier and have gear or you're traveling as a family, a midsize SUV will give you more space.

Do I need a special pass for toll roads around Buford?
No. You don't have to use any toll roads in Georgia. Some highways near Atlanta have optional express lanes that need a Peach Pass. However, you can easily avoid these lanes when you drive to or around Buford.

Is parking difficult to find in Buford?
No, you can find plenty of free parking all over Buford. This includes major spots like the Mall of Georgia and most places to get into Lake Lanier.

What documents do I need to rent a car in Buford?
You will need a valid driver's license and a credit card that has your name on it. If you're visiting from another country, you also need a valid passport and either an International Driving Permit or a driver's license printed in English. The rental company might ask for proof of insurance if you decide not to buy their coverage.

When is the cheapest time to rent a car in Buford?
You'll find the lowest rates in January and February. Prices are often 50-60% cheaper than in the summer.