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Road Genius makes it easy to find great rental car deals in Chelmsford, MA. Compare rates and make reservations in one place. Simple. Pick up your car from town agencies or nearby Lowell and hop on I-495, Route 3 or I-93 for quick drives to Boston, Salem or the New Hampshire mountains. Booking early locks in low prices and guarantees the vehicle you need, especially during busy summer and fall foliage months.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 592074
Location Pros Cons Notes
Chelmsford Town (Local agencies on Chelmsford St)
  • Lower rates than airport locations
  • No airport surcharges
  • Shorter wait times
  • Limited hours (usually 8am-6pm weekdays, shorter on Saturday, closed Sunday)
  • Smaller vehicle selection
  • Advance booking recommended
  • Call ahead to confirm hours
  • Some agencies offer local pickup service
  • After-hours drop-off available at most locations
Lowell Area (5 miles from Chelmsford)
  • More rental options
  • Competitive pricing
  • Better selection
  • Requires transportation to/from Chelmsford
  • Similar limited hours as Chelmsford
  • More agencies to choose from
  • Short taxi/rideshare from Chelmsford
Boston Logan Airport (30 miles from Chelmsford)
  • 24/7 service
  • Largest vehicle selection
  • All major rental companies
  • Higher rates (airport fees)
  • 45-60 minute drive to Chelmsford
  • Possible wait times after flights
  • Free shuttle buses to Rental Car Center
  • Convenient for air travelers
  • Longer drive to Chelmsford

Car Rental Prices

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

On average, car rentals in Chelmsford cost around $91 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $23 per day.

Saving Tips
  • Compare town vs airport pickup: Chelmsford and nearby Lowell branches skip Logan's airport fees and can be 15-25 percent cheaper, so the 45-minute drive or quick rideshare often pays off.

  • Peak foliage or summer trip? Lock in a free-cancellation booking 3-6 weeks out, then keep checking—rebook if rates drop, cancel the old one, easy savings.

  • Hop to Lowell for more choice: a $15 rideshare unlocks extra vehicle classes and promo rates that can beat Chelmsford prices by $10+ per day.

  • Tweak your dates: starting on a Monday or ending mid-week often dodges weekend surcharges at neighborhood branches and opens up better inventory.

  • Refuel in New Hampshire on your way back via Route 3—gas is usually cheaper there, so you avoid both higher MA prices and any rental refueling fee.
Car rental prices in Chelmsford 2025/2026

Local Parking and Driving

Area Parking Options Local Regulations
Chelmsford Center
  • Free parking at most businesses
  • Time limits may apply in busy areas
  • Municipal lots available
  • Check for posted restrictions
  • Winter bans may be in effect during snow emergencies
Driving Rules
  • Right-hand driving
  • Speed limits: 65 mph on highways, 45-55 mph on major roads, 30 mph in residential areas, 20 mph in school zones
  • Seat belts required for all occupants
  • Children must use appropriate car seats based on age/size
  • Right turn on red allowed after complete stop (unless signed otherwise)
  • Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
  • Headlights required when wipers are in use
Mobile Phone Use
  • Handheld phone use while driving is banned
  • Must use hands-free systems
  • No texting or browsing while driving
Why rent a car in Chelmsford

Book a rental so you can drive to:

  • Boston – Freedom Trail, Museum of Fine Arts

  • Salem – Witch Museum, Peabody Essex Museum

  • New Hampshire SeacoastPortsmouth Market Square, Hampton Beach

  • White Mountains, NH – Kancamagus Highway, Franconia Notch

  • Nashua and Merrimack, NH – Pheasant Lane Mall, Premium Outlets

Driving Distances from Chelmsford

FAQs

What's the best kind of car for visiting Chelmsford?
Most people find a standard or midsize car is enough. If you visit in the winter (December to March), you might want to get an AWD or 4WD vehicle to help you drive better in the snow.

Can I charge my electric car in Chelmsford?
Yes, you can find several public charging stations in Chelmsford and nearby towns. The Chelmsford Public Library and some shopping centers have EV chargers.

Can I drive my rental car to New Hampshire or other nearby states?
Yes, most rental companies let you drive freely throughout the New England states. You should always check the specific rules with your rental company.

How should I pay for tolls in a rental car?
Most rental companies give you the option to pay for tolls electronically. You'll pay a daily fee plus the cost of the tolls. If you have your own E-ZPass, you can use it in your rental car. Just remember to update the car's license plate on your account.

Can I park on the street overnight in Chelmsford?
Yes, you usually can. But in the winter (November to April), you can't park overnight on many streets so the town can clear snow. You should check the street signs or ask the people where you are staying.

What should I do if there's a snow emergency?
When the town declares a snow emergency, you need to follow special parking rules. This usually means no parking on the street. The staff at your hotel or rental property can tell you where to park.