Car Rental Manhattan

FAQs

Is it worth renting a car in Manhattan?
If you're just exploring Manhattan, you'll find a car is usually not worth the trouble and cost. You can get around more easily using public transportation, taxis and rideshares. However, a car is very useful if you're taking day trips outside the city or visiting several spots in the outer boroughs on the same day.

How much should I budget for parking in Manhattan?
You should plan to spend $40–$70 per day for a parking garage in Midtown or Downtown and $25–$45 in Upper Manhattan. If your hotel has valet parking, it can cost up to $85 per day plus a tip. You can find street parking that is free or metered at $2–$4 per hour, but it is very hard to find a spot.

Are there any areas of Manhattan where parking is easier?
You can usually find more street parking in Upper Manhattan (above 96th Street) than in Midtown or Downtown. You might also find open spots in neighborhoods on weekends because many locals leave the city. However, you should always read parking signs carefully since the rules can change from block to block.

What's the best strategy for street parking in Manhattan?
If you try to park on the street, your best bet is on weekdays between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. This is after the morning street cleaning rules end and before the evening rush begins. You can use an app like NYC 311 to see if they have suspended the street cleaning rules for the day. Always read all the signs on the street carefully because the rules can change from one block to the next.

How does the Manhattan congestion pricing affect rental cars?
New York City plans to start its congestion pricing program in late 2024 for cars driving into Manhattan below 60th Street. The current plan is to charge passenger cars once a day. The charge will likely be around $15 during busy hours. The rental company will bill the toll to your car's transponder and add its own service fee.

Can I return a rental car to a different Manhattan location than where I picked it up?
Most rental companies let you return a car to a different spot in Manhattan. They often won't charge an extra fee, but their policies can be different. You should always ask about one-way options when you book. If you return the car to another borough or a different state, you will usually have to pay a one-way fee.

What happens if I get a parking ticket in a rental car?
The rental company will get the ticket and charge your credit card for the fine. They will also add their own service fee, which is usually $25–$50. Parking rules in Manhattan are very strict. Tickets can cost anywhere from $65 to $115, depending on what rule you broke.

Should I get a rental car for my entire Manhattan stay?
Most visitors find it's cheaper to rent a car only for the days they really need it, like for weekend trips. If you keep the car for your whole stay, you might find that daily parking costs quickly add up to more than the rental price itself.

What's the best time to drive out of Manhattan for a day trip?
To miss the worst traffic when you're leaving Manhattan, you should head out before 7:00 AM or between 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM on weekdays. On weekends, it's best to leave before 9:00 AM. When you come back, try to arrive before 3:00 PM or after 8:00 PM.