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Compare rental car prices from top providers in Newark, Ohio with Road Genius. From affordable cars to premium SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at great prices in convenient locations. Save by picking up downtown for lower fees or grab a car at John Glenn Columbus International Airport for the widest selection, then drive the toll-free roads to Columbus, Hocking Hills or Amish Country on your own schedule.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 567314

Visitors to Newark choose between airport rentals in Columbus or local rental offices in Newark.

Location Pros Cons
John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) • Wider selection of vehicles
• All major rental companies available
• Extended hours of operation
• No need for additional transportation
• Approximately 40 miles (64 km) from Newark
• Higher rates due to airport fees (15-20% premium)
• Longer wait times during peak travel periods
Newark City Locations • Lower rates without airport fees
• Convenient if already in Newark
• Shorter wait times
• Closer to local accommodations
• Limited vehicle selection
• Restricted hours (many close by 6 PM)
• May require transportation from airport if flying in

Local Rental Providers: Newark has Enterprise and Hertz offices serving the local area.

Car Rental Prices

How much does it cost to rent a car in Newark, OH?

On average, car rentals in Newark (OH) cost around $52 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $28 per day.

Low-cost rental tips
  • Compare Newark vs CMH pickup: City desks skip the 15-20 % airport surcharge. Add up the cost of a shuttle/ride from CMH; if it's under $60 round-trip, Newark pickups usually win.

  • Shift your dates: Newark counters are quietest Tue-Thu mornings. Picking up midday mid-week and returning before the Friday rush often cuts a few dollars per day.

  • Think weekly, not daily: Staying 4+ days? A 7-day "weekly" rate can beat five individual days, especially in off-peak months (Jan-Mar, Nov). Check both options when you compare.

  • Watch the calendar spikes: Rates jump during summer holidays, Ohio State football home games and fall foliage weekends. For those periods, booking 3-4 weeks ahead locks in cheaper inventory.

  • Use the after-hours drop box: Newark locations let you toss the keys in the slot. Returning late evening instead of the next morning keeps you under the 24-hour clock and avoids an extra day charge.

Parking and Driving

Downtown Newark Parking:

  • Street parking in downtown Newark is generally free but has time limits (usually 2 hours during business hours)
  • Public lots available near the courthouse and downtown square
  • No residential permit requirements for most areas
  • The Canal Market District has dedicated spaces for events

Driving Rules to Know:

  • Speed limits: 25-35 mph in town, 55 mph on rural highways, 70 mph on interstates
  • School zones: 20 mph during designated hours (watch for flashing lights)
  • Complete stops required at all stop signs and red lights
  • Right turns permitted on red after complete stop (unless signed otherwise)
  • Seat belts required for all front-seat occupants
  • Hands-free only for mobile phone use while driving

Tolls: No toll roads in the Newark or central Ohio area. If traveling to northern Ohio, be aware that the Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90) does have tolls.

Why rent a car in Newark, Ohio

Book a rental car so you can see:

  • Local highlights – Newark Earthworks, The Works museum, Longaberger Basket Building

  • Dawes Arboretum and Blackhand Gorge – gardens, nature preserve

  • Columbus – Ohio Statehouse, German Village, COSI Science Center

  • Hocking Hills State Park – Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, Cedar Falls

  • Ohio Amish Country – Berlin, Millersburg, Sugarcreek

  • Licking County countryside – covered bridges, Granville, Utica, The Wilds

Driving Distances from Newark

FAQs

What's the best time to visit Newark, Ohio?
You'll find the best weather and good rental prices in the spring and fall. Fall (September–October) is especially beautiful because of the colorful leaves. In the spring, you can see the landscapes at Dawes Arboretum bloom. Summer is great for outdoor activities, but you should know that rental demand is higher.

Is it better to rent at Columbus airport or in Newark?
If you fly into Columbus, renting at the airport is convenient and gives you more cars to choose from, but it costs about 15–20% more. You can save money by renting in Newark city if you can get a ride from the airport. Just remember that city locations have shorter hours and fewer cars. You should add up all the costs, including transportation, to make your choice.

What are the must-see attractions accessible by car from Newark?
You can take a short drive to see the Newark Earthworks, The Works museum, Dawes Arboretum and Blackhand Gorge. If you're willing to drive 1–2 hours, you can visit Hocking Hills State Park, attractions in Columbus, Amish Country and The Wilds conservation center.

How does weather affect driving conditions throughout the year?
In the winter (December–February), you might see snow and ice, so you should drive carefully. Spring often brings rain showers. In the summer, the roads are usually clear, but you could run into a thunderstorm. Fall gives you great driving weather, and you can also enjoy the colorful leaves along country roads.

Are there any local driving quirks I should know about?
When you drive in Downtown Newark, you should watch out for several one-way streets and a courthouse square that can be tricky for new visitors. The OH-16 expressway is a quick way to travel through the area, but the exits appear fast, so you'll need to pay close attention to the signs.

What kind of vehicle is best for visiting the Hocking Hills region?
You can reach the main attractions in a standard car, but you might be more comfortable in a small SUV on the country roads. If you visit Hocking Hills in the winter, we suggest a vehicle that has all-wheel drive (AWD) because the roads can be steep and slippery.