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Find lower rental car prices in Lawrence, Kansas with Road Genius. Compare live rates for SUVs, compact cars, passenger vans and reserve with no booking fees. We scan trusted brands like Hertz, Enterprise and Avis so you can collect a ride downtown near the University of Kansas or at Kansas City International Airport and hit I-70 to Clinton Lake, Topeka or Kansas City in minutes.
| Rental Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Lawrence Downtown | • Convenient local access • Competitive rates • Local knowledge |
• Limited selection • Potentially limited hours • May require advance booking |
| Kansas City International Airport (MCI) | • Wider vehicle selection • Extended hours • More rental companies |
• 50 miles (80 km) from Lawrence • Transportation needed to Lawrence • Airport premium pricing |
| Topeka Regional Airport | • Less busy than KCI • Closer to Lawrence (30 miles / 48 km) |
• Limited flight schedule • Fewer rental options • May have higher rates |
Additional Notes:
On average, car rentals in Lawrence (KS) cost around $66 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $33 per day.
Compare pick-up spots: Downtown Lawrence often beats airport rates. Add up the airport surcharge and shuttle/bus fare from MCI before deciding.
Avoid KU rush days: Prices jump for move-in, graduation and home games. Shifting pick-up to a non-game Monday or Tuesday can save big.
Hunt for weekly deals: In summer or other off-peak weeks, a 5–7-day "weekly" price can cost less than four separate daily rates.
Stick with round-trip rentals: Dropping the car at Kansas City Airport usually adds a one-way fee. Returning to Lawrence and grabbing a shuttle can be cheaper.
| Area | Details | Local Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Lawrence | • Metered street parking • Public garages |
• Meters enforced Mon-Sat 9:30am-6pm |
| University of Kansas | • Permit required weekdays • Visitor parking available |
• Gameday parking requires special permits/payment • Avoid campus during basketball games |
| Shopping Centers | • Free parking at all major shopping centers | • South Iowa Street shopping district has plenty of spaces |
| Residential Areas | • Some require permits • Time restrictions in areas near campus |
• Watch for neighborhood restriction signs • Street cleaning days have special restrictions |
Local Driving Rules:
Get a rental car so you can get to:
Clinton Lake – marinas, trails, beaches
Kansas City – museums, barbecue districts, stadiums
Topeka – Kansas State Capitol, museums, zoo
South Iowa Street shopping district – malls, outlets
Where is the best place to park near Massachusetts Street?
You can park for free for the first two hours at the New Hampshire Street and Vermont Street parking garages. They are both just one block from the shops and restaurants on Massachusetts Street.
Do I need to pay tolls when driving to Kansas City from Lawrence?
Yes, you will need to pay tolls on I-70 between Lawrence and Kansas City because it's part of the Kansas Turnpike. You can pay cash at a toll booth or use a K-TAG electronic payment system. For a regular car, the toll is about $3.50.
How does University of Kansas basketball season affect car rentals?
During basketball season (November–March), a lot more people are looking to rent cars, especially on home-game weekends. Rental prices may be higher and cars harder to find. You should book at least a month in advance for tournament weekends.
What is parking like on campus during KU events?
For major events like basketball games, football games and graduation, you will need a special permit or have to pay for most parking spots on campus. Some lots offer event parking for a fee, usually from $20–$40, depending on the event and location.
Are there any rental companies that offer one-way rentals from Lawrence to Kansas City Airport?
Most major rental companies in Lawrence let you rent a car one-way to Kansas City Airport, but they usually charge an extra fee for it. You will often save money if you rent and return the car to the same place.
As an international visitor, what should I know about driving in Lawrence?
If your driver's license isn't in English, you should get an International Driving Permit before you arrive. Lawrence is a college town and has a lot of people walking, so be extra careful when driving around campus. You'll find the streets are easy to navigate because they are mostly on a grid, but be sure to watch for the one-way streets downtown.
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