Car Rental at San Diego Airport
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Cheapest Car Rental Rates
Intermediate
Nissan Sentra
or similar
$45.71
per day
Compact
Ford Focus
or similar
$56.71
per day
Economy
Chevrolet Spark
or similar
$69.67
per day
Standard
Volkswagen Jetta
or similar
$78.13
per day
Most Popular Car Rental Deals
Full-size
Chevrolet Malibu
or similar
$80.06
/ per day
Premium Regular Cab Pickup
Ford F-150
or similar
$85.87
/ per day
Luxury
Chrysler 300
or similar
$117.48
/ per day
Mini Van
Dodge Caravan
or similar
$651.06
/ per day
The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 12:27 on 2023-06-02. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
Why book with us?
Special offers
As a market leader (see SimilarWeb), we get special offers like contactless pick-ups, great prices, and free upgrades.
Award-winning
World's Leading Car Rental Booking Website in the World Travel Tech Awards (3 years in a row).
Highly-rated
A combined rating of 4.5 with 90k total reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, Google, and Review Center.
4M users
Have already booked on one of the fastest-growing car rental booking websites.
Awards
World Travel Tech Awards - World's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2022
World Travel Tech Awards - World's Best Car Rental Booking App 2022
Magellan Awards Gold Winner 2022
Travel & Hospitality Awards 2021
FT 1000: Europes Fastest Growing Companies - Top 300 Companies 2021
FT 1000: Europe's Fastest Growing Companies - Top 100 Companies 2020
Uzakrota Travel Awards - World’s Leading Car Rental Website 2022
Inc. 5000 Europe - Top 500 Companies 2019
Travel Information
Language
English,
Spanish
Spanish
Currency
USD
Drive on
Right-hand side
Country code
+1
Average car rental price
$148.09 / per day
Average car rental length
8 days
Speed limit within town
40 - 48 km/h
25 - 30 mph
Speed limit out of town
88 - 104 km/h
55 - 65 mph
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.08%
Average gasoline price
$1.43 per liter
Highest gasoline price
$1.68 per liter
Lowest gasoline price
$1.19 per liter
Airport Car Rental
Known for its excellent beaches, surfer culture, and many family attractions, San Diego is one of the most famous destinations of the Golden State. In addition to being a great destination in its own right, the city can serve as a hub for exploring Southern California. These are three of the most interesting destinations in and around San Diego. If you only have a weekend, then make sure to check this sample San Diego itinerary for ideas of what to do with your time.
- La Jolla. Located right on the oceanfront, about a 20-minute drive from downtown, ‘The Jewel’ is one of the most popular areas of San Diego for locals and visitors alike. The main draw of La Jolla is its atmosphere, but there are also famous landmarks that include the monumental Museum of Contemporary Art, Birch Aquarium, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and the unmistakable La Soledad cross that overlooks the neighborhood.
- The Gaslamp Quarter. Located right at the heart of the city, the Gaslamp Quarter (or the District, as it is known among locals) is another popular area of San Diego. Listed as a historic district, it was primarily settled in the 1860s when it was known as New Town. Nowadays, it is home to a large number of heritage buildings like the William Heath Davis House, Old City Hall, and Broker’s Building.
- Balboa Park. This immense park is home to beautiful green spaces, gardens, museums, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Spend some time outdoors in the sun, or check out the Air & Space Museum, the Fleet Science Center, or the Museum of Art.
- Temecula Valley. Located about an hour’s drive northeast, Temecula Valley is one of the greatest wine-growing areas in the United States — and consequently, one of the most popular day trips from San Diego. In addition to more than 30 wineries (that are fascinating to visit even if you are driving and cannot participate in tastings), the area is also home to a well-preserved old town and several interesting olive oil tours (this being another important industry of the area).
Top international routes
- San Jose del Cabo
- London
- Vancouver
- Tokyo
- Frankfurt
Main airlines
Southwest Airlines is the main airline serving San Diego Airport, with more than a third of the airport’s total passengers. Its most popular destinations are San Francisco, Denver, Phoenix, San Jose, Las Vegas, and Sacramento.
The three major domestic carriers all also serve the airport with each carrying a little over 10% of the airport’s traffic each. United’s busiest routes are to and from San Francisco and Denver, its West Coast and Rocky Region hubs. American’s busiest destinations from the airport are to Phoenix, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Chicago-O’Hare. Delta’s busiest routes include Seattle, its West Coast hub.
Alaska Airlines is the other major airline serving the airport. It flies to many destinations on the West Coast, to the Hawaiian Islands, and to Cabo in Mexico.
The three major domestic carriers all also serve the airport with each carrying a little over 10% of the airport’s traffic each. United’s busiest routes are to and from San Francisco and Denver, its West Coast and Rocky Region hubs. American’s busiest destinations from the airport are to Phoenix, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Chicago-O’Hare. Delta’s busiest routes include Seattle, its West Coast hub.
Alaska Airlines is the other major airline serving the airport. It flies to many destinations on the West Coast, to the Hawaiian Islands, and to Cabo in Mexico.
Terminals
There are two passenger terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Each is divided into two sections, East and West. There are shuttle buses and vans that can take you from one terminal to other.
Location
The airport is just 3 miles (4.8 km) north of downtown San Diego. Harbor Drive is the main street that connects San Diego Airport to the city.
Most popular types of rental car
- Convertibles - from $86 per day
- Large cars - from $46 per day
- Medium cars - from $57 per day
- Vans - from $118 per day
- Premium cars - from $71 per day
- Small cars - from $57 per day
- SUVs - from $62 per day
Car rental desks
Those rental companies with on-airport locations can be found in the Consolidated Rental Car Facility at 3355 Admiral Boland Way. A free shuttle runs at all hours between the terminals and the facility.
Mex, Nu, and Ace are not located in the facility. All of them are located just east of the airport off of Pacific Highway. Each provides a shuttle for its customers.
Mex, Nu, and Ace are not located in the facility. All of them are located just east of the airport off of Pacific Highway. Each provides a shuttle for its customers.
Services and facilities
You’ll find many bars and dining opportunities, shops and stores, lounges, relaxation services, a spa, and three lactation rooms for new mothers. There are also ATMs, a currency exchange, and a lost and found office. Luggage carts can be found on the upper level of Terminal 2, near entrance doors. San Diego Airport offers help to passengers with reduced mobility, but you should contact your airline in advance if this is needed. You can find more information on the airport's official website.
Nearest gas station
If returning to the airport from downtown along Pacific Highway, there is a Mobil station between Hawthorn Street and Grape Street. There is a Shell station a few blocks to the north which is closer to the airport; however, it’s prices are significantly higher.
For those returning cars to Nu, or Ace, then the same Mobil station is the best at which to fill up no matter which direction you are coming from.
If traveling to the rental car facility via I-5 from either direction, a Shell station at the corner of India and Vine Streets is very convenient. From the south take exit 18B and from the north, 18A. The rental car facility is just a block away from the station and Vine Street will lead you to Kettner Blvd. from which you can turn right to reach the facility.
For those returning cars to Nu, or Ace, then the same Mobil station is the best at which to fill up no matter which direction you are coming from.
If traveling to the rental car facility via I-5 from either direction, a Shell station at the corner of India and Vine Streets is very convenient. From the south take exit 18B and from the north, 18A. The rental car facility is just a block away from the station and Vine Street will lead you to Kettner Blvd. from which you can turn right to reach the facility.
Popular one-way rentals
- Los Angeles (125 mi / 201 km)
- San Francisco (525 mi / 845 km)
- Las Vegas (334 mi / 537 km)
- Phoenix (358 mi / 576 km)
- Seattle (1,256 mi / 2,021 km)
- Palm Springs (142 mi / 228 mi)
Fact checked by:
Megan Starr & Aram Vardanyan
Megan & Aram is a travel blog run by two friends that have been helping people travel the world since 2010. They have visited well over 100 countries together and share a special passion for lesser-known destinations, as well as the Nordics. Megan is currently based in Germany and Aram is based in Armenia. They run 4 destination-specific websites in addition to Megan & Aram.
Airport info
San Diego Airport (SAN)
- IATA: SAN
- ICAO: KSAN
- Name: San Diego Airport (SAN)
Top 20 Locations near San Diego Airport
-
Car Rental at San Diego Cross Border Xpress from $29.76 per day28.8 km / 17.9 miles away
-
Car Rental at John Wayne Airport from $64.51 per day122.3 km / 76.0 miles away
-
Car Rental at Palm Springs Airport from $69.42 per day137.4 km / 85.4 miles away
-
Car Rental at Long Beach Airport from $78.04 per day150.1 km / 93.3 miles away
-
Car Rental at Ontario Airport from $64.51 per day151.9 km / 94.4 miles away
-
175.3 km / 108.9 miles away
-
Car Rental at Los Angeles Airport from $49.88 per day175.7 km / 109.2 miles away
-
Car Rental in Los Angeles (Downtown) from $54.90 per day176.7 km / 109.8 miles away
-
Car Rental at Burbank Airport from $52.10 per day195.9 km / 121.7 miles away
-
Car Rental at North Hollywood Lankershim Blvd from $74.59 per day196.6 km / 122.2 miles away
-
Car Rental at Santa Barbara Airport from $68.64 per day309.5 km / 192.3 miles away
-
Car Rental at Meadows Field Airport from $79.96 per day346.2 km / 215.1 miles away
-
Car Rental at Visalia Downtown from $1452.40 per day443.6 km / 275.6 miles away
-
Car Rental at Fresno Airport from $59.34 per day505.3 km / 314.0 miles away
-
Car Rental at Monterey Airport from $75.16 per day603.8 km / 375.2 miles away
-
Car Rental at San Jose Airport from $56.49 per day671.4 km / 417.2 miles away
-
Car Rental at Oakland Airport from $54.45 per day718.4 km / 446.4 miles away
-
Car Rental at San Francisco Airport from $53.52 per day718.9 km / 446.7 miles away
-
Car Rental at Sacramento International Airport from $62.48 per day772.6 km / 480.1 miles away
-
Car Rental at Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport from $75.16 per day818.5 km / 508.6 miles away
Map of Car Rental Locations
When are car rental prices the lowest at San Diego Airport?
The cost of renting a car at San Diego Airport varies by season. This graph compares prices from month to month in order to help you find the best time of year.
Average rental costs per day at San Diego Airport
The cheapest month of the year to rent a car at San Diego Airport is May — when rental costs average $45.71 per day. This is 29% cheaper than the yearly average and 49% cheaper than renting a car in October (when prices average $89.63 per day).
This information can help you identify the low season. But these are only average numbers. How much your car rental will cost will depend on the type of vehicle you rent, how long you’ll rent it for, and how far ahead you book. Simply enter your dates in the form at the top of the page to see the exact prices.
This information can help you identify the low season. But these are only average numbers. How much your car rental will cost will depend on the type of vehicle you rent, how long you’ll rent it for, and how far ahead you book. Simply enter your dates in the form at the top of the page to see the exact prices.
For how long do renters keep their vehicles at San Diego Airport?
How long travelers keep their rental cars varies by the time of year: in February the average rental period is 18 days, while in September, the average rental period is only 6 days.
Average rental length at San Diego Airport
What is the most popular time of year to rent a car at San Diego Airport?
Based on how many users search for a car in at San Diego Airport, travelers are most likely to rent a car at San Diego Airport in August, while they are least likely to rent in in February.
Monthly searches at San Diego Airport by pick-up date relative to the average
Car Rental Information
| Popular suppliers | Thrifty, Dollar, SIXT, Alamo, MEX RENT A CAR |
| Popular car categories | Large cars, SUVs, Medium cars, Small cars |
| Lowest price | $46 per day |
| Cheapest supplier | SIXT |
Most Popular Car Models of Rental Suppliers
| Rental Supplier | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollar | Nissan Rogue | 5 | 3 | SUVs |
| Thrifty | Mazda 3 | 5 | 3 | Large cars |
| SIXT | VW Jetta | 4 | 2 | Large cars |
| Alamo | Nissan Kicks | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| Alamo | Nissan Rogue | 5 | 3 | SUVs |
| Dollar | Mazda 3 | 5 | 3 | Large cars |
| Dollar | Ford Focus | 4 | 2 | Medium cars |
| SIXT | Nissan Sentra | 4 | 2 | Large cars |
| MEX RENT A CAR | Nissan Versa | 4 | 2 | Large cars |
| Thrifty | Nissan Pathfinder | 4 | 2 | Large cars |
FAQ
Can I cross the border into Mexico with a rental car?
Yes, some companies allow crossing the border into Mexico but usually require the purchase of additional insurance to do such. You may also be restricted to only be able to drive in Baja California. An alternative, particularly if a longer trip is planned, is to drop off your rental car at the border and pick up another one on the Mexican side of the border (of course, this requires renting from a company that has a rental office at the border).
What if I incur a traffic fine?
If you have been fined during your rental, you will usually receive a notification of the fine from the rental company which will automatically bill your credit card for it along with an administrative fee.
What coverage is included in the rental rate?
Mandatory insurance is not included for residents of Canada and the USA. If you wish to use your own insurance, you may be asked to provide an insurance ID card with the coverage shown and the same name and address as listed on your driver's license. Insurance from outside of the USA and Canada is not accepted.
Can I pick up the car after 11:30 PM?
Yes, some of the car rental companies are open until 12:30 AM at San Diego Airport. To see which, be sure to use your desired drop off time when searching for a car.
Our Customers' Reviews
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have an option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic, verified, and trustworthy.
MS
Netherlands
Nissan Rogue
February 24, 2023
We did a roadtrip of western USA. Loads of nature and mountains.
SL
United States of America (USA)
Kia Rio
July 3, 2020
Great service
BK
Canada
Kia Rio
March 25, 2020
Beautiful place to visit and great roadway system
CV
United States of America (USA)
Hyundai Accent
February 12, 2020
Friendly honest staff....
TG
United States of America (USA)
Hyundai Accent
July 16, 2018
Great car... great price... great service... definitely would recommend and use again!
Car Rental Statistics
Highest rated company
Alamo
9.4 / 10
Lowest rated company
GreenMotion
7.4 / 10
Total number of reviews
5
Total rental companies
13
Average daily price
$148.09
Lowest daily price
$45.71
Total cars available
153
Top 13 Suppliers at San Diego Airport in 2023
+18888266893 / +18337631741
3355 Admiral Boland Way, San Diego, CA 92101
$78 - $161
+16192943313 / +18337631739
3355 Admiral Boland Way, San Diego, CA 92101
$80 - $163
+18887498227
3355 Admiral Boland Way, San Diego, CA 92101
$46 - $143
Working hours
Mon:07:00-23:59
Tue:07:00-23:59
Wed:07:00-23:59
Thu:07:00-23:59
Fri:07:00-23:59
Sat:07:00-23:59
Sun:07:00-23:59
National
+18888266890 / +18337631740
3355 Admiral Boland Way, San Diego, CA 92101
$82 - $165
Advantage
8007775500
3355 Admiral Boland Way
Working hours
Mon:05:00-23:59
Tue:05:00-23:59
Wed:05:00-23:59
Thu:05:00-23:59
Fri:05:00-23:59
Sat:05:00-23:59
Sun:05:00-23:59
+16194320620 / +18002254369
3355 Admiral Boland Way, San Diego.
$331 - $765
Working hours
Mon:00:00-00:30
Tue:00:00-00:30
Wed:00:00-00:30
Thu:00:00-00:30
Fri:00:00-00:30
Sat:00:00-00:30
Sun:00:00-00:30
Budget
+16192945921
3355 Admiral Boland Way
$81 - $193
Working hours
Mon:00:00-23:59
Tue:00:00-23:59
Wed:00:00-23:59
Thu:00:00-23:59
Fri:00:00-23:59
Sat:00:00-23:59
Sun:00:00-23:59
Payless
6192964966
3355 Admiral Boland Way
Working hours
Mon:06:00-23:00
Tue:06:00-23:00
Wed:06:00-23:00
Thu:06:00-23:00
Fri:06:00-23:00
Sat:06:00-23:00
Sun:06:00-23:00
8664342226
3355 Admiral Boland Way
$70 - $77
Working hours
Mon:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Tue:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Wed:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Thu:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Fri:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Sat:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Sun:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Thrifty
+18772830898
3355 Admiral Boland Way
$57 - $125
Working hours
Mon:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Tue:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Wed:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Thu:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Fri:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Sat:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
Sun:00:00-01:00; 06:00-23:59
+16196885000
3355 Admiral Boland Way
Working hours
Mon:00:00-23:59
Tue:00:00-23:59
Wed:00:00-23:59
Thu:00:00-23:59
Fri:00:00-23:59
Sat:00:00-23:59
Sun:00:00-23:59
NUCarrentals
+18442702377
2269 Pacific Hwy San Diego, CA 92101
Working hours
Mon:08:00-17:00
Tue:08:00-17:00
Wed:08:00-17:00
Thu:08:00-17:00
Fri:08:00-17:00
Sat:08:00-15:00
Sun:08:00-15:00
GreenMotion
+1877247336
San Diego International Airport
Working hours
Mon:06:00-23:59
Tue:06:00-23:59
Wed:06:00-23:59
Thu:06:00-23:59
Fri:06:00-23:59
Sat:06:00-23:59
Sun:06:00-23:59
Highly recommended by our customers
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