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| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF) | • Multiple agencies on-site (Avis, Enterprise, Hertz) • Convenient for air travelers • Easy pickup/return process |
• Higher rates due to airport fees • Around 8 miles (13 km) from downtown • Can be busy during peak travel times |
| Downtown/City Locations | • Lower rates than airport • Multiple agency options • Convenient if staying downtown |
• Limited hours (often closed Sundays) • Transportation needed from airport • May have smaller fleet selection |
On average, car rentals in Springfield (MO) cost around $104 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $33 per day.
Compare airport vs downtown pickups – city locations usually run about 20 % cheaper because you skip SGF airport surcharges; a quick 8-mile (13 km) rideshare can still leave you ahead.
Shift your rental window – weekday pickups/returns in Springfield often cost less than weekends, so nudging dates by a day can shave off dollars.
Book 2-3 weeks early for peak periods (June–August, Branson events) – prices climb fast once the summer crowd targets the Ozarks, while off-season dates stay steady.
Grab a weekly rate if you need 5+ days – in southwest Missouri the "7-day" bundle can beat paying the daily rate for four or even five days.
Leverage Missouri's free spouse driver rule – add a partner without the usual $10-15 per-day fee and share the Ozark mileage.
Skip upsells you don't need – decline GPS, use your phone, and fill the tank yourself before drop-off to dodge premium refuel charges.
City Parking:
Popular Attractions:
Local Driving Rules:
Toll Roads:
Get a rental car to visit:
Branson – shows, Silver Dollar City
Table Rock Lake – boating, fishing
Route 66 towns – Carthage, Lebanon
Ozark Mountains parks – trails, waterfalls

Is a car necessary when visiting Springfield? Yes, we highly recommend you get a car. The city has limited public transportation and the main sights are spread out across the city and nearby areas.
What are the busiest traffic times in Springfield? Traffic gets heavier during weekday rush hours (7:30–9:00 AM and 4:30–6:00 PM). You'll see the most traffic on Battlefield Road, Sunshine Street and Glenstone Avenue.
Are there any environmental or traffic restrictions? No, Springfield does not have emissions zones or congestion charges. You can drive in all parts of the city without special permits or fees.
What documents do I need to rent a car in Springfield? You will need a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name to rent a car. If you're an international visitor, you need a valid passport and driver's license. Many companies also recommend (or require) an International Driving Permit if your license isn't in English.
How much should I budget for fuel? You can expect to pay about $3.00 to $3.60 per gallon for gas, depending on the season. This is usually lower than the U.S. national average.
What is the best vehicle type for exploring the Ozarks? Any car will work for most paved roads. If you plan to explore rural areas or state parks that have gravel roads, a small SUV will give you better ground clearance and a more comfortable ride.
Can I find electric vehicle charging stations in Springfield? Yes, you can find EV charging stations in some places like hotels, shopping centers and public parking areas. Keep in mind that the city is still building out its charging network.
How does winter weather affect driving in Springfield? Snow and ice can make driving tricky in the winter. Crews clear the main roads quickly, but side streets can stay slick for longer. You might want to get an AWD vehicle if you visit between December and February.