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

On average, car rentals in **Downey** cost around **$73** per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at **$22** per day.

Car Rental Downey, CA

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Finding a rental car in Downey is easy with Road Genius. Compare prices of vehicles from dozens of suppliers around California with no booking fees. Book at a neighborhood counter to avoid airport surcharges or pick up your car at LAX or Long Beach Airport for round-the-clock pickup, then hop on I-5 or I-605 and be in downtown Los Angeles, Disneyland or the beach in under an hour.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Key Rental Locations and OptionsLocation TypeProsConsNotes
Downey Local Branches• Lower rates (no airport fees)
• Less waiting time
• Close to accommodation• Limited operating hours
• Smaller vehicle selection
• No after-hours returns at some locationsEnterprise on Firestone Blvd does not offer after-hours drop-off
LAX Airport• Larger selection
• 24/7 operation
• Multiple companies• Around 18% higher rates
• Airport concession fees
• Potential 1-2 hour waits during peak timesLocated around 20 miles (32 km) from Downey
Long Beach Airport• Closer than LAX (12 miles / 19 km)
• Shorter waiting times
• Less congestion• Fewer rental companies
• Limited late evening options
• Still includes airport feesGood alternative if flying into LGB

Location Type	Pros	Cons	Notes
Downey Local Branches	• Lower rates (no airport fees) • Less waiting time • Close to accommodation	• Limited operating hours • Smaller vehicle selection • No after-hours returns at some locations	Enterprise on Firestone Blvd does not offer after-hours drop-off
LAX Airport	• Larger selection • 24/7 operation • Multiple companies	• Around 18% higher rates • Airport concession fees • Potential 1-2 hour waits during peak times	Located around 20 miles (32 km) from Downey
Long Beach Airport	• Closer than LAX (12 miles / 19 km) • Shorter waiting times • Less congestion	• Fewer rental companies • Limited late evening options • Still includes airport fees	Good alternative if flying into LGB

Car Rental Prices

Average: $73/day
From: $22/day

How to pay less?

Compare Downey city branches vs. LAX/LGB airport counters. Local pick-ups avoid airport concession fees and are usually 15-20 % cheaper.
Shift your pickup to Tue–Thu or mid-day. Demand dips then, so base rates on our site often drop and lines are shorter.
Check the "weekly rate" box for 5+ day trips. In Downey a 7-day booking can cost less than paying six daily rates.
Fly into LAX? Rideshare to Downey, then rent. You skip a day of rental and dodge airport surcharges.
Refuel at Costco or stations along Firestone/Lakewood Blvd. Cheaper gas saves $10-15 compared to filling up near the freeway or paying the rental company.

Car rental prices in Downey 2025/2026

Parking Tips

Downey offers easier parking options compared to central Los Angeles:

Downtown Downey: Mix of free and metered street spaces, often limited to 2 hours in many areas
Stonewood Shopping Center: Free spaces available
Street Parking: Usually available in commercial areas but watch for street sweeping days (signs posted)
Speed Limits:
- Residential streets: 25-35 mph
- Major thoroughfares (Firestone Blvd, Lakewood Blvd): 40-45 mph
- Freeways: 65 mph
Cameras: Some intersections have red light cameras, especially on major boulevards

Why rent a car in Downey

Renting a car in Downey gives you fast access to Los Angeles highlights, Orange County attractions and nearby beaches.

Downtown Los Angeles – museums, Crypto.com Arena
Disneyland, Anaheim – Disneyland Resort
Long Beach – waterfront, Aquarium of the Pacific
Santa Monica – pier, beaches
Hollywood – Walk of Fame, theaters

Local Rental Locations

FAQs

What are the primary rental companies in Downey?

You can rent from Enterprise (on Firestone Blvd), Hertz, Avis, Budget, Dollar and Thrifty in Downey.

Do I need a car in Downey?

Yes, the city doesn't offer much public transportation. You'll find a car is the easiest way to get around Downey and see nearby places.

When is the best time to pick up a rental car to avoid waits?

Try picking up your car mid-morning (10-11 AM) or mid-afternoon (2-4 PM). The lines are often shorter then, so you can avoid the morning and evening rushes.

Can I return my rental after hours in Downey?

Some places let you, but not all of them. For example, the Enterprise on Firestone Blvd does not allow after-hours returns. You should check the location's rules when you book your car.

Is parking difficult in Downey?

No, you should find parking to be pretty easy. Most businesses have their own parking lots and you can also find street parking in shopping areas, but be sure to check for time limits.

What's the minimum age requirement to rent a car in Downey?

You need to be at least 21 to rent a car. If you're under 25, the rental company will add a daily 'young driver' fee of about $25-30.