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Compare rental cars from top providers in Phoenix with Road Genius. From affordable cars to large SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at low prices in convenient locations. Pick up at PHX Airport or choose downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale or Tempe to dodge airport surcharges and score cheaper rates. Secure unlimited mileage deals in minutes and head out to Sedona, the Grand Canyon or wherever the desert takes you.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 541014

Phoenix offers several car rental options, each offering distinct advantages depending on your needs:

Location Pros Cons
PHX Airport
  • Immediate access after arrival
  • All major companies available
  • Extended hours or 24/7 service
  • Large vehicle selection
  • Free PHX Sky Train connection
  • Higher rates (11.1% concession fee, $4.50/day facility charge)
  • Additional taxes (approx. 30% total add-ons)
  • Long lines at peak times
  • Further from downtown
Downtown Phoenix
  • Lower base rates (no airport taxes/fees)
  • Often 20-30% cheaper overall
  • Less crowded counters
  • Limited hours (often 8am-6pm)
  • Fewer vehicle options
  • Requires transport to location
  • Some closed Sundays
Scottsdale
  • Convenient for Scottsdale stays
  • Often less crowded
  • Limited hours
  • Requires transport from airport
Tempe/ASU Area
  • Convenient for university visitors
  • Good for East Valley access
  • Limited selection
  • May have university-related busy periods

Car Rental Prices

How much does it cost to rent a car in Phoenix?

On average, car rentals in Phoenix cost around $73 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $16 per day.

How to pay less?
  • Compare airport vs city pickup PHX slaps on ~30% in concession taxes. A $15 rideshare to a downtown branch often ends up 20-30% cheaper overall, especially for multi-day rentals.

  • Target the heat Rates nosedive in July–August when temps scare off tourists. Expect up to 40% savings versus March Spring Training weeks.

  • Tweak dates and length Toggle pickup/return times on the comparison page. A 7-day "weekly" price can be lower than a 4-day booking.

  • Book early only for peak months If you're coming Jan–Mar, lock in 2-3 months ahead. For summer trips, waiting can snag last-minute deals.

  • Skip pricey extras Bring your own child seat or phone mount and decline prepaid fuel unless you'll roll in on fumes.

  • Join free loyalty programs They cost nothing and can score upgrades or coupon rates while letting you bypass the counter lines.

Parking and Driving

  • Downtown Phoenix: Metered spots enforced 8 am to 10 pm daily, including weekends

  • Meters: Pay by coin, card or ParkMobile app; most have 2–4 hour limits

  • Garages: Multiple public garages available; some offer evening flat rates

  • Event Parking: Dedicated lots near sports venues such as Chase Field and Footprint Center

  • Speed Limits:

    • Residential areas: 25 mph
    • City streets: 30–45 mph
    • Urban freeways: 55–65 mph
    • Rural freeways: 75 mph
    • School zones: 15 mph when flashing (strictly enforced)
  • HOV Lanes: Restricted to vehicles having 2 or more occupants during rush hours (6 am to 9 am and 3 pm to 7 pm on weekdays)

  • Right on Red: Legal after a complete stop, unless signed otherwise

  • DUI Laws: Strictly enforced; legal limit is 0.08% BAC

  • Distracted Driving: No handheld phone use while driving

  • Move Over Law: Change lanes or slow down when passing emergency vehicles

Why rent a car in Phoenix

Rent a car so you can drive to:

  • Grand Canyon South Rim – 230 miles (370 km), 3.5–4 h

  • Sedona – 115 miles (185 km), 2 h

  • Tucson – 116 miles (187 km), 1.5–2 h

  • Camelback Mountain & Papago Park – trailheads 10–20 min from downtown

  • Scottsdale Fashion Square & golf courses – 12 miles (19 km), 20–35 min

Driving Distances from Phoenix

FAQs

What vehicle type is best for Phoenix?

Most travelers find a mid-size car works well for comfortable city driving. We recommend an SUV if you plan to visit mountain areas or take desert trips on approved roads. They give you a better view. You might enjoy a convertible in the winter, but it's not practical in the summer heat.

When is the best time to rent in Phoenix?

You'll find the lowest prices in July and August. Rental companies offer discounts of about 30-40% because fewer tourists visit during the extreme heat. For good weather and reasonable prices, try renting in October or April. These months are just outside the busy season.

Are there toll roads in Phoenix?

No. Arizona has no toll roads, so you won't need electronic toll passes or worry about toll fees during your visit.

How far in advance should I book my rental car?

If you're visiting during the peak season (January-March), book 2-3 months ahead. For summer visits, you only need to book 2-4 weeks ahead.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Phoenix?

Most companies require you to be at least 21 years old. If you're between 21 and 24, they will charge a "young driver fee" of about $19-27 per day. Some local rental places rent to drivers 18 and older, but they have strict rules.

Is it necessary to purchase additional insurance?

This depends on the insurance you already have. If you are visiting from another country, we strongly suggest getting SLI (liability coverage). Your insurance policy from home usually won't cover you in the US. Check if your credit card provides CDW coverage before you buy it at the counter.