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Compare rental car prices from leading companies in Glendale with Road Genius. From small economy cars to premium SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at low prices in convenient locations. Glendale sits between Downtown Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Mountains, so a rental lets you reach Hollywood, Pasadena or the Angeles Crest Highway in under 30 minutes while avoiding airport surcharges. Book early to grab lower weekday rates and hassle-free one-way returns to LAX or Burbank Airport.
Glendale provides several rental options concentrated around major commercial areas:
| Location Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Glendale Galleria/Americana Area | • Central to shopping and hotels • Multiple rental companies • Walkable from downtown Glendale |
• Possible mall traffic congestion • Limited weekend hours • Parking can be challenging during pickup |
| Brand Blvd Corridor | • Close to business district • Easy access to freeways • Often less crowded than mall area |
• Limited selection at some locations • Street parking challenges • Some locations closed Sundays |
| Los Feliz/Atwater Border | • Sometimes lower rates • Easier parking for pickup/drop-off • Quick access to I-5 |
• Less centrally located • Fewer luxury options • Limited hours |
Major Rental Companies in Glendale:
On average, car rentals in Glendale (AZ) cost around $83 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $22 per day.
Compare Glendale pickups vs airports – local branches skip the airport concession fees, so even after a quick rideshare from BUR or LAX you can still spend 10-15 % less.
Shift your dates a day or two – weekday pickups (Mon-Thu) usually undercut weekend starts. Test a Friday vs Monday return in the search box and watch the price swing.
Skip the mall zone – offices on Brand Blvd or the Los Feliz/Atwater border often list rates 5-10 % cheaper than the Galleria/Americana hot spot and parking is a breeze.
Toggle "weekly" when renting 5+ days – weekly rates can shave 15-25 % off the same days booked separately.
Use free local pickup – many Glendale depots will collect you from your hotel or Metrolink stop, saving an extra Uber fare.
Refuel smart – hit Costco on Los Feliz or stations along San Fernando Rd for some of the cheapest gas in LA before you hand the car back.
Glendale offers easier parking than many LA areas, but still has specific rules:
| Area | Parking Options | Local Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Glendale Galleria/Americana | • Free mall parking structures • Validation often available |
• Look for structure entrances on Central, Harvard or Orange • Upper levels are usually less crowded |
| Brand Blvd/Downtown | • Metered street parking • Public garages • Some free lots |
• Meters enforced Mon-Sat usually until 6pm • Exchange garage offers affordable rates • Read street cleaning signs carefully |
| Residential Areas | • Street parking having some restrictions • Fewer permit zones than central LA |
• Watch for street cleaning days • Some areas have overnight restrictions • School zone restrictions during school hours |
| Shopping Centers | • Free parking at most strip malls and centers | • Usually time-limited (2-3 hours) • Some enforce for specific businesses only • Larger centers have plenty of space |
Local Driving Rules:
Get a rental car so you can easily reach:
Angeles National Forest – Angeles Crest Highway viewpoints
Griffith Park – Observatory, hiking trails
Hollywood – Walk of Fame, theaters
Universal Studios Hollywood – theme park
Pasadena – Rose Bowl, Old Town
Santa Monica – beach, pier
Is it better to rent a car in Glendale or at nearby airports?
Rental companies in Glendale usually charge less than the ones at LAX or Burbank Airport because their fees and taxes are lower. However, you'll need to find a ride to get to a Glendale rental office. If you fly into Burbank, it's very close, so renting a car at the airport might be more convenient even if it costs a little more.
How is parking in Glendale compared to central Los Angeles?
Parking is much easier and often free. Most shopping centers offer free parking and street parking is easier to find. Downtown Glendale has affordable public garages and residential areas have fewer rules than central LA neighborhoods.
Do I need a special vehicle to drive Angeles Crest Highway?
You can drive any standard car on Angeles Crest Highway when the weather is good. The road is paved and kept in good shape. However, a car that handles well is more fun on the curves and an SUV can make it easier to pull over at some scenic spots.
Is there overnight street parking in Glendale?
On most Glendale streets, you can park overnight, though some neighborhoods have rules against it. Always check the posted signs. This is different from nearby cities like Pasadena, where they don't allow overnight street parking unless you have a permit.
Are there any toll roads near Glendale?
There are no toll roads right in Glendale. The closest ones are the ExpressLanes on the I-10 and I-110 freeways in Los Angeles. Using them is optional and you need a transponder to pay the toll.
Can I easily return my rental to LAX if flying out?
Yes, most major companies let you rent a car one-way from Glendale to LAX. Expect a one-way fee of about $30–50, but they sometimes drop this charge for longer rentals. Plan on the drive to LAX taking 45–75 minutes, depending on traffic.
What's the best vehicle for visiting both city attractions and mountain areas?
A midsize SUV is your most flexible option. It gets good gas mileage and is easy to park when you're exploring the city. It also handles mountain roads comfortably, so it's great for day trips to Angeles National Forest or nearby hiking areas.
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