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No booking fees. Free cancellation on most cars
Save by finding great deals and securing low price rentals
Compare rental car prices from top companies in Key West, Florida with Road Genius. From affordable cars to premium SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at great prices in convenient locations. Pick up your ride the moment you land at Key West International Airport or choose a city spot on N. Roosevelt Blvd to skip airport fees, then drive the Overseas Highway or around Old Town and Duval Street on your own schedule.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Key West International Airport (EYW) | • Immediate pickup upon arrival • All major rental agencies available • No need for taxi/shuttle to rental location |
• Higher rates (airport fees) • Can have long wait times during peak season • May sell out during high season even when reserved |
| City Locations (N. Roosevelt Blvd) | • Generally lower rates (no airport fees) • Sometimes wider selection of vehicles • Good for renting only on days needed |
• Requires transportation from airport • Extra time needed to reach rental location • Limited hours of operation |
| Type | Description | Wait Time Notes |
|---|---|---|
| On-Site Airport Rentals | • Avis and Budget have counters and cars at terminal • Quick access—no shuttle needed • Walk directly to the rental lot |
• Can have lines during busy periods • Weekends and mid-afternoon flight arrivals may experience longer waits |
| Off-Site Airport Rentals | • Companies like Alamo and Enterprise • Often offer lower rates • Located on Roosevelt Blvd |
• Require shuttle transportation (around 5 minutes) • Use courtesy phone in baggage claim for pickup • Total wait time can exceed 1-2 hours during peak periods |
On average, car rentals in Key West cost around $53 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $31 per day.
Compare airport vs city pick-ups
City spots on N. Roosevelt Blvd skip the ~10% airport concession fee. Even after a $15-ish cab ride, multi-day rentals usually come out cheaper.
Book to match the season, not a random "early" rule
Lock in 6-9 months ahead for winter (Dec-Apr) or big events like Fantasy Fest. In low season (Jun-Oct) grab a free-cancellation deal 1-2 months out and recheck prices—rates often dip last minute.
Play with your dates
Shift pickup/return to Tue-Thu and compare 4-day vs 7-day quotes. Weekly pricing can beat a long weekend rate.
Size matters in Old Town
Compact or midsize cars are not only easier to squeeze into $4/hour street spots—they're usually the cheapest class to rent and refuel.
Rent only for the road trip portion
If you'll mostly walk or bike Key West, pick up the car the morning you head up the Overseas Highway and drop it when you get back. One less day on the contract = instant savings.
Refuel on Roosevelt Blvd before drop-off
Island gas is pricey but still way cheaper than the rental company's per-gallon service charge.
| Type | Cost | Restrictions | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street Parking | Paid hourly (varies by zone) | • Many spots for "Residential Permit Only" • Often 3-hour time limits • Enforced 8 AM to midnight |
• Use Passport Parking app to extend time remotely • Look for free spots in less busy areas • Avoid parking in residential zones |
| Public Garage (Caroline St) | Paid hourly or daily max | • Can fill up during peak times | • Central location near Duval Loop bus stop • Good option for full-day parking |
| Public Lots (Mallory Square, Key West Bight) | Paid daily | • Limited spaces available | • Arrive early to secure a spot • Convenient for major attractions |
| Hotel Parking | Varies (nightly fee) | • Limited spots at many properties | • Confirm availability when booking • Often worth the convenience |
Texting while driving is prohibited
Avoid peak travel times (Friday afternoons southbound, Sunday afternoons northbound)
A car opens up the Overseas Highway and the surrounding Keys beyond the compact island center.
Rent a car to drive to:
Seven Mile Bridge – Veterans Memorial Park, ocean panoramas
Bahia Honda State Park – rail bridge, beaches
Big Pine Key – Key Deer refuge, nature trails
Marathon – Turtle Hospital, waterfront dining
Islamorada – Robbie's Marina, sportfishing charters
Key Largo – John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Do I need a car in Key West?
If you're only staying in Old Town and don't plan to explore other Keys, you don't need a car. The island is small (2 × 4 miles) and easy to walk around. You can also rent bikes or use the free Duval Loop shuttle. However, a car is helpful if you want to explore beyond Key West or get to places outside the main tourist area.
Can I find free parking in Key West?
It's hard to find free parking. Some neighborhood streets have spaces you don't need a permit for, but people take them quickly. The most convenient spots are usually metered or in paid lots. If your hotel has parking, that's often your best choice.
How far in advance should I book my rental car?
For the busy winter season from December to April, you should book 6–9 months ahead to get the best prices and car choices. During the slower summer and fall season, booking 1–2 months ahead is usually enough. If you're coming for a big event like Fantasy Fest, you should book your car as soon as you know your travel dates.
What's the best vehicle type for Key West?
We recommend a compact or midsize car to help you get through narrow streets and find parking. People love convertibles for the scenic drive, but they don't have much room for luggage. SUVs give you more cargo space but can be hard to park in Old Town.
Are there tolls between Miami and Key West?
The Overseas Highway (US-1) itself does not have tolls. However, if you drive from Miami using the Florida Turnpike, you will have to pay tolls. Most rental companies offer a program to pay tolls electronically for an extra fee.
What happens if a hurricane is forecast during my rental period?
If the government calls for a mandatory evacuation, you must follow their instructions. Most rental companies will let you drop off the car at a different location during an emergency. You should contact your rental company about their specific rules and consider getting travel insurance for trips during hurricane season.
Can I take a rental car on the ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park?
No. There is no ferry for cars going to Dry Tortugas. You can only get to the park by a passenger boat or seaplane and these do not take vehicles.
Are there restrictions on where I can drive a rental car in the Keys?
You can drive a standard rental car anywhere on paved roads in the Florida Keys. You cannot take some specialty vehicles, like golf carts, on highways. You should check your rental agreement for any specific rules.
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