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Finding a car rental in Daly City is simple with Road Genius. Compare prices of vehicles from dozens of suppliers across California with no reservation fees. Rates here often run 15 to 20 percent lower than at San Francisco Airport or downtown, and you can jump on I-280 or Highway 1 within minutes for an easy drive to San Francisco, Silicon Valley or the Pacific coast.
Car Rental Locations & Options
Key Rental Locations and Options
| Rental Location | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Daly City (Serramonte Area) | • Lower rates than airport or SF locations • No airport fees • Convenient for southbound exploration | • Limited hours (most close by 6PM, reduced weekend hours) • Smaller vehicle selection • May require transportation to location |
| San Francisco Airport (SFO) | • Extensive vehicle selection • 24/7 service • Convenient pickup upon arrival | • Airport fees add approximately 11% to rental cost • Distance from Daly City (approximately 10 miles / 16 km) • Potential for long wait times during peak periods |
| San Francisco Downtown | • Accessible via BART from Daly City • Extended hours at some locations • Multiple operator options | • Higher rates than suburban locations • City tax increases costs • Traffic congestion can delay pickup |
Additional Notes
- Major rental companies in Daly City are located near Serramonte Center and along Junipero Serra Boulevard
- BART provides public transportation connections to both San Francisco and SFO
- Loyalty program membership can expedite the rental process and provide upgrades
- Consider ride-sharing services to reach rental locations if not arriving by car
Car Rental Prices
Saving Tips
- Pick up in Daly City, not SFO or downtown SF to skip airport fees and city taxes. Average saving: roughly 15-20%, easily covering a short BART or rideshare hop.
- Price out a weekly rental even for 4–5 days. In the Bay Area a "7-day" deal can cost less than five separate daily rates.
- Time your booking: lock in early only for summer, holidays or big conventions. Off-peak? Track prices and rebook if they dip rather than committing months out.
- Refuel in Daly City where gas is cheaper than San Francisco and avoid the premium refuel charge at the counter.
- Skip the pricey toll gadget; Golden Gate and Bay Bridge tolls can be paid online within 48 hours using the plate number.
Car rental prices in Daly City 2025/2026
Parking Tips
| Area | Parking Availability | Regulations |
|---|---|---|
| Serramonte Center | Ample free parking | Time limits may apply in certain sections |
| Daly City BART | Paid parking lot | Fill early on weekdays; payment required |
| Residential Areas | Street parking available | Watch for permit requirements and street cleaning days |
Local Driving Rules
- Standard speed limits: 25 mph in residential areas, 35-45 mph on major streets, 65 mph on highways
- Right turns permitted on red after complete stop unless posted otherwise
- Cell phone use while driving requires hands-free operation
- Daly City streets can have steep grades; use your brake when parked on hills
- Street cleaning restrictions in residential areas (check signs for days and times)
Important
- San Francisco has unique challenges including street cleaning and permit areas
- Fog can reduce visibility suddenly, especially near the coast and during summer
- The Great Highway along Ocean Beach may close during certain hours or for events
Why rent a car in Daly City
Rent a car to drive to:
- San Francisco – Golden Gate Park, Fisherman's Wharf
- Half Moon Bay – beaches, trails
- Silicon Valley – campuses, Levi's Stadium
- Napa Valley – wineries, vineyards
- Monterey and Carmel – 17-Mile Drive, Cannery Row
Local Rental Locations
- Berkeley, CA
- Burlingame, CA
- Car Rental Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS)
- Car Rental Norman Y. Mineta San José International Airport (SJC)
- Car Rental Oakland International Airport (OAK)
- Concord, CA
- Eureka, CA
- Fishermans Wharf
- Fremont, CA
- Hayward, CA
- Milpitas, CA
- Mountain View, CA
- Oakland, CA
- Palo Alto, CA
- Petaluma, CA
- Pleasanton, CA
- Redding, CA
- Redwood City, CA
- San Jose, CA
- San Rafael, CA
- San Ramon, CA
- Santa Clara, CA
- Santa Rosa, CA
- South Lake Tahoe, CA
- Sunnyvale, CA
- Truckee, CA
- Union City, CA
- Union Square
- Vallejo, CA
- Walnut Creek, CA
FAQs
Is it better to rent a car at SFO or in Daly City?
You can usually save 15-20% if you rent in Daly City instead of at the airport, because you won't have to pay airport fees and extra charges. But if you want the most convenient option when you land, SFO lets you get a car right away, 24/7.
Do I need a car if I'm staying in Daly City and visiting San Francisco?
BART is a great way to travel between Daly City and San Francisco. But a rental car gives you more freedom to explore the coast, destinations to the south and other spots that are hard to reach on public transit. It really depends on your travel plans.
How do I handle the Golden Gate Bridge toll in a rental car?
The Golden Gate Bridge only takes electronic payments, so there are no cash lanes. Most rental companies can sell you a toll package for a daily fee. You can also pay the toll yourself online up to 48 hours after you cross, using the car's license plate number.
What type of vehicle is best for driving in Daly City and San Francisco?
We recommend a compact or mid-size car to get around narrow streets and find parking more easily. Large SUVs or vans can be tough to handle on steep hills and in tight parking spots. You might also want a hybrid or fuel-efficient car to save money on gas, since it's more expensive in California.
How do I park on San Francisco's steep hills?
When you park facing uphill, turn your wheels away from the curb. When you park facing downhill, turn your wheels toward the curb. You should always use your parking brake and leave the car in gear (or in Park for an automatic). This stops the car from rolling away if the brakes fail.
Can I drive to wine country as a day trip from Daly City?
Yes, the Napa and Sonoma Valleys are about 60 miles (97 km) away from Daly City, which is a drive of about 1.5 hours. It's an easy day trip. We suggest you start early to avoid traffic, especially on weekends. If you plan on tasting wine, make sure you have a designated driver or book a wine tour.
