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Compare car rental prices from top providers in Columbia, TN with Road Genius. From small economy cars to large SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at low prices. Downtown Columbia offers pick-ups and free parking, and if you need extended hours or a bigger fleet Nashville International Airport's rental plaza is only an hour north. Book early around the April Mule Day festival when car rentals in Columbia TN can sell out fast.
Columbia has several rental options to consider:
| Location | Pros | Cons |
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| Columbia City Locations |
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| Nashville Airport (Alternative) |
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| Franklin/Spring Hill (Alternative) |
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Availability Note: Columbia's rental locations maintain a small fleet. If rental agencies in Columbia have low inventory, they might bring a vehicle from another town if you book early.
Transportation Challenge: Getting to Columbia without a car requires private transfer or rideshare from Nashville or other nearby cities, as public transportation is virtually nonexistent.
On average, car rentals in Columbia cost around $79 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $20 per day.
Skip the airport fees by comparing Columbia city outlets with Nashville Airport; rates in town are usually lower and you'll avoid the 45-mile back-track.
Book early for Mule Day (April) and other local events when the tiny Columbia fleet gets snapped up fast and prices jump. Off-peak months (Dec-Feb) usually score the cheapest deals.
Check nearby Franklin or Spring Hill in the search results. A 20-minute drive can open more vehicle choices and sometimes beat Columbia's limited stock on price.
Aim for a weekly rate if you need 5+ days. In small markets like Columbia the "pay for 5 but keep for 7" deal often beats daily pricing.
Columbia offers convenient parking throughout the town:
| Location | Type | Cost | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Town Square | Street parking | Free |
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| Public Lot near Courthouse | Surface lot | Free |
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| Side Streets | Street parking | Free |
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| Shopping Areas | Private lots | Free |
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Safety Note: Columbia is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Lock your vehicle and don't leave valuables visible when you park.
Get a car so you can visit:
Natchez Trace Parkway – overlooks, historic markers
Nashville – music venues, museums
Franklin – downtown square, Civil War sites
James K. Polk Home – museum, gardens
How far is Columbia from Nashville International Airport?
Columbia is about 60 miles (97 km) from Nashville International Airport. The drive usually takes 60 to 75 minutes on I-65 or US-31.
Can I rent a car in Nashville and return it in Columbia?
Rental companies may limit one-way rentals between Nashville and Columbia and might charge you extra drop-off fees. You should ask the rental company directly if they allow this.
What type of car is best for visiting Columbia?
Most visitors find a standard sedan works well. If you plan to explore country roads or visit in the winter, a small SUV can give you more comfort and better grip on the road.
Are there any toll roads in the Columbia area?
You won't find any toll roads in Columbia or anywhere else in Tennessee. This means you can drive without worrying about a toll pass.
How early should I book a rental car for Mule Day?
For Mule Day, which is usually in April, you should book your car at least one or two months early because the rental companies have a small number of cars and many people want them.
Do rental car companies offer pickup service in Columbia?
In Columbia, Enterprise often picks up customers who are inside the city limits. You should call them ahead of time to set up a ride.
Is it possible to rent a car for just one day in Columbia?
Yes, you can rent a car for just one day, but the price might be higher for short rentals. When it's busy, some places might require you to rent the car for more than one day.
What documents do I need to rent a car in Columbia?
You'll need to show a valid driver's license, a major credit card in your name and maybe proof of insurance. If you are visiting from another country, you should bring your passport. You may also need an International Driving Permit if your license is not in English.
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