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Find competitive rental car prices in Scranton, Pennsylvania with Road Genius. Compare live rates for SUVs, hatchbacks, passenger vans and make reservations with no booking fees. Choose instant pick-up at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport or save on fees by collecting downtown, then hit I-81 toward the Pocono Mountains, New York City or Philadelphia in just a couple of hours.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 543294

The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) serves as the primary rental hub, located around 10 miles (16 km) from downtown Scranton. City center rental locations provide alternatives for travelers arriving by other means.

Location Pros Cons
Airport (AVP)
  • Immediate access after landing
  • Six major companies on-site
  • Open for all incoming flights (7AM-midnight)
  • After-hours returns available
  • Higher rates (airport fees)
  • Limited selection when demand is high
  • No after-hours pickups
Downtown
  • Lower base rates (around $15/day less than airport)
  • No airport concession fees
  • Limited business hours
  • Often closed on Sundays
  • Transportation needed from airport
  • May require business hours return

Additional Location Notes:

  • Transportation from AVP to downtown costs around $25-30 via rideshare

Car Rental Prices

How much does it cost to rent a car at Scranton Airport?

On average, car rentals at Scranton Airport cost around $88 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $39 per day.

How to save?
  • Compare airport vs downtown pick-ups: downtown counters run about $15/day less. Even after a $25 rideshare from AVP you're ahead on rentals of 2+ days. Check both spots in one search.

  • Lock in early only for peak holidays: rates spike around Thanksgiving and Christmas in Scranton. Grab a deal 2-3 months out then. For winter low season (Jan–Mar) last-minute bookings can actually be cheaper.

  • Shift your dates: starting or ending on a Tue or Wed often undercuts weekend prices. Play with pickup/return times in the tracker.

  • Stay small, pay small: PA highways are smooth so an economy or compact saves on daily rate and gas without sacrificing comfort.

  • Refuel off-airport: top up at the stations on Route 309 before driving back to AVP to dodge premium airport pump prices.

Parking and Driving Tips

  • Downtown Scranton has on-street metered spots and several garages (Electric City Garage, Linden Garage)
  • Meters are enforced during business hours (Monday-Saturday)
  • Evening spots (after 5-6PM) and Sunday are often free (check meter labels)
  • Mobile payment is available through apps
  • Garages have daily maximum rates

  • Pennsylvania requires headlights when wipers are in use during rain or snow

  • School zones have 15 mph limits when lights are flashing
  • Complete stops are required for school buses when red lights flash (both directions)
  • Right turns are allowed on red after a complete stop unless signed otherwise
  • Handheld mobile phone use while driving is prohibited
Why rent a car in Scranton

Rent a car to get to:

  • Pocono Mountain resorts – skiing, hiking, waterparks

  • Lake Wallenpaupack – boating, fishing, summer events

  • Mount Pocono – spa retreats, outlet shopping

  • Clarks Summit and Waverly countryside – fall foliage, scenic drives

  • Day trips to New York City or Philadelphia – museums, dining, entertainment

Driving Distances from Scranton

FAQs

What documents do I need to rent a car in Scranton?
You'll need a valid driver's license, a credit card and a passport (for visitors from other countries). If your license isn't in English, you should also have an International Driving Permit.

Are there any age restrictions for renting in Scranton?
Most rental companies need you to be 25 or older. Some companies will rent to drivers who are 21-24, but they usually add an extra daily fee of about $25.

Can I return my rental after hours?
Yes, you can often return cars after hours at the airport locations because they have key drop boxes. Downtown locations usually need you to return the car during their business hours.

What is the typical cost for a rental car in Scranton?
You can expect to pay about $50-60 a day for a smaller car from a downtown location. From the airport, it's about $65-75 a day. These prices don't include taxes or fees.

Is it better to rent at the airport or downtown?
Renting at the airport is more convenient, but it also costs more. You can save about $15 a day if you rent downtown, but you will need to get a ride from the airport. A rideshare for that trip costs about $25-30.

How far is downtown Scranton from the airport?
Downtown Scranton is about 10 miles (16 km) from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport. The drive takes 15-20 minutes.