This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 48 hours by searching for a car hire in Philadelphia with a pick-up date of 11/7 and drop-off date of 18/7. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of hire. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
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KAYAK’s insights & trends for Philadelphia car hire
Check out the latest trends and booking tips to hire a car in Philadelphia with confidence.
How far in advance should you book car hire in Philadelphia?
You should book your car hire in Philadelphia around 7 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.
What is the cheapest car hire company in Philadelphia?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest hire cars were found at Sixt (£26.87/day), Budget (£28.93/day), and Dollar (£32.12/day). The cheapest car hire price was found at Sixt 1500 Market Street (0.7 mi from city centre).
What is the most popular car to hire in Philadelphia?
Hires in the Medium category (Toyota Corolla or similar) are the most popular option in Philadelphia, costing £48/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as £30/day.
What is the cheapest month to hire a car in Philadelphia?
The cheapest month to hire a car in Philadelphia is January at an average cost of £34/day. July is the most expensive month to hire a car in Philadelphia when prices are £60/day on average, which tends to be 3% above the yearly average hire price for Philadelphia.
Which car hire company in Philadelphia has the most locations?
Avis operates 8 locations in Philadelphia, more than any other car hire company.
Philadelphia car hire price comparison by vehicle type
Find the right car hire in Philadelphia by comparing prices across vehicle types.
Small
Medium
Large
SUV
Van
Pickup truck
Luxury
Convertible
Small cars
£26 - £48
All Car Types
£46 - £76
How much does it cost to hire a small car in Philadelphia?
How much does it cost to hire a medium car in Philadelphia?
How much does it cost to hire a large car in Philadelphia?
How much does it cost to hire an SUV in Philadelphia?
How much does it cost to hire a van in Philadelphia?
How much does it cost to hire a pickup truck in Philadelphia?
How much does it cost to hire a luxury car in Philadelphia?
How much does it cost to hire a convertible in Philadelphia?
Small car hire in Philadelphia typically costs around £35 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average £26 per day, which is about 26% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 38% cheaper than the average car hire in Philadelphia, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
Medium car hire in Philadelphia typically costs around £48 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average £40 per day, which is about 17% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 15% cheaper than the average car hire in Philadelphia, offering a good balance of space and value.
Large car hire in Philadelphia typically cost around £51 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average £41 per day, which is about 20% less than the yearly average. Large cars can be 9% cheaper than the average car hire in Philadelphia, offering more comfort for longer trips at a reasonable price.
SUV hire in Philadelphia typically costs around £53 per day. The best time to book is April, when prices average £45 per day, which is about 16% less than the yearly average. SUVs can be 6% cheaper than the average car hire in Philadelphia, providing extra space and capability for groups or road trips at a reasonable price.
Van hire in Philadelphia typically costs around £78 per day. The best time to book is March, when prices average £52 per day, which is about 34% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 29% more expensive than the average car hire in Philadelphia but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.
Pickup truck hire in Philadelphia typically costs around £46 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average £38 per day, which is about 18% less than the yearly average. Pickup trucks are 18% cheaper than the average car hire in Philadelphia, making them a practical choice for hauling gear or outdoor adventures.
Luxury car hire in Philadelphia typically costs around £71 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average £57 per day, which is about 20% less than the yearly average. Luxury cars are typically 22% more expensive than the average car hire in Philadelphia but deliver premium comfort and style for special occasions.
Convertible hire in Philadelphia typically costs around £89 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average £63 per day, which is about 30% less than the yearly average. Convertibles are typically 38% more expensive than the average car hire in Philadelphia but are perfect for scenic drives and warm-weather destinations.
Good to know
Most popular agency
Most popular car type
Average price
Good deal
Turo
Medium
£39/day
£30/day
Philadelphia car hire experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users
Insights shared by verified travellers who hired a car in Philadelphia
If you are picking up a rental from the airport, if you are not arriving on an incoming flight it is rather difficult to get to the agent.
Verified travelerJan 2026
Do not rent with out doing your research on all costs upfront.
NormanSept 2024
The fact that you were open till 1 AM made my rental possible as it had been booked with Sixt because of pricing and a package. But they closed at 12 PM and I needed to be sure even if the flight was an hour late - needed to get the car. Flight was on time but it was tight with getting the bag and getting the shuttle so I left the rental center at 12:45. Thanks
RobertOct 2024
Check your route before leaving, as this is a large airport with a lot of traffic. Philadelphia drivers are merciless. One level below NY drivers.
Verified travelerSept 2024
Make sure you get or know the rental closing time before you book
BillieJun 2024
If renting an EV ask more questions if it's your first time renting/using one. EV charging stations are not compatible to every car, at least not yet( heard that will be a new required regulation?). Ask about % of charge required for return. What fee will be applied per day or if returned below a certain charge.
AdamApr 2024
The best tip I would give is to not allow people to rent cars from places that close when they're supposed to be renting the car at that time. I would have gladly gone with a different rental car company that was open...which I ultimately had to do on my own.
Verified travelerDec 2023
Use Hertz. Avis was double the price.
DanielJan 2024
Make sure that the company funds you eligible to rent a car otherwise you can find yourself in a big situation like I did however, Avis did not turn me down
Verified travelerDec 2023
When returning the car be prepared to drive a big loop of the departure and arrival area before coming back around to stop the car off
Verified travelerNov 2023
Should you need to rent a car from the Philadelphia airport, your only consideration needs to be Payless Car Rental.
KiranOct 2023
Train station is good location. The man was good that assisted
AngelaNov 2023
Know whether you will be parking in a garage or on the street. If it’s an RPP enforced area, get a visitor’s pass from the Philadelphia Parking Authority to avoid getting ticketed. Never leave valuables in your rental. Double check to make sure your vehicle is locked.
AlinaSept 2023
Maybe call ahead and confirm that they have an actual car onsite for you
Verified travelerSept 2023
Ensure your rental is at the train station rather than the airport.
JimOct 2023
Be aware of exits to where you need to go
DannyJun 2023
Secure parking garages close to Independence hall made taking the hop on and off tours easy and got to see all the downtown sites as well as history of the sites and community. Did not experience any concerns because we did not stay past 6 o'clock any evening but was told by several locals and/or regular visitors to be off the streets downtown after dark.
AndrewJul 2023
Be sure to know where to pick up the rental vehicle shuttle. We were not successful in getting on a shuttle for Budget and ended up walking (only a couple blocks, but not pleasant with luggage in hot weather). On return, if flying American, be sure to know what terminal/gate you are flying out of as American uses 5 terminals at PHL. There are several gas stations near the airport, so filling a car before return is easy.
DAug 2023
Call the rental company to verify they have your car available before you go to pick up your car
Verified travelerAug 2023
Was not a rental for Philadelphia, we were driving from Philadelphia to Chicago.
Verified travelerJun 2023
Have cars available for people who reserved them.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Double check they have car before you go
Verified travelerMay 2023
Use gps to avoid construction
KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in Philadelphia
A hire car will give you the ultimate flexibility during your stay in Philadelphia. Drive into the city from the airport in under 20 minutes and reach all sights and attractions conveniently with your car, such as the Lincoln Field Stadium to see the Eagles play, or other places of interest outside of the city, such as Princeton University, which is less than an hour by car away, or Atlantic City, which is just over an hour’s drive.
The easiest pick-up location for a hire car is at the Philadelphia International Airport. Various companies offer vehicles here, including Avis, Enterprise, and Hertz. Information and pick-up is located at the Ground Transportation Information desks at the baggage claim area, but the airport is signposted throughout, so finding the right desk should be no problem.
When driving in Philadelphia there are some things to bear in mind, such as the red light cameras, some dare-devil cyclists, and the difficulties of finding a parking spot. Make sure to drive with patience and attention, as fines can reach hundreds of dollars quickly. Watch out for side track cyclists and opt for a hotel with an included parking space so your vacation will go smoothly.
Especially when venturing out of the city core, road conditions in Philadelphia can be challenging, so adapting your speed is crucial. Driving through the rush hour should also be avoided if possible, which is usually between 7 and 9 AM and 4 and 6 PM. The I-76W is especially affected with commuters clogging up the street. Also bear in mind that winters in Philadelphia can include snow, sleet, and ice, so ensuring that the vehicle is properly equipped is important.
25% of our users found a car hire in Philadelphia for £28 or less
Medium hire cars in Philadelphia are around 35% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about car hire in Philadelphia
What type of car is recommended for driving in Philadelphia?
As parking spots are hard to come by in Philadelphia, it is advisable to opt for a smaller car that can easily cruise through the city. A minivan is a great option for families who need additional space, and it still provides the right size. Travelers wanting to explore the surrounding nature like Schuylkill River may want to choose an SUV.
What’s the speed limit in Philadelphia?
When driving through residential areas, 25 mph is usually permitted, but also look out for street signs indicating the speed limit. Outside of residential areas, drivers can speed up to 35 mph unless indicated otherwise. On motorways, speeds of up to 55 mph are permitted unless the posted sign allows more.
Where are the best places to park in Philadelphia?
There are metered parking spots in the city -- but be careful, as the PPA are very efficient in Philadelphia and a ticket can be issued the second your time runs out. Also, if you park in a no-parking area, you can expect your car to be ticketed and towed. There are also PPA car parks and garages available, which cost around $25 for 24 hours and are dotted around the city, for example Parkade on 8th, Gateway Parking Garage, or 19th and Callowhill Street.
How much does it cost to hire a car in Philadelphia?
On average a car hire in Philadelphia costs £39 per day.
Which car hire agencies are at Philadelphia airport (PHL)?
Car hire companies onsite at Philadelphia airport include National and Thrifty.
Which car hire companies will pick you up at Philadelphia airport (PHL)?
Car hire companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Philadelphia airport to off-airport locations include National and Thrifty.
How can I find car hires near me in Philadelphia?
Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.
How much does a Medium car hire cost in Philadelphia?
A Medium car hire in Philadelphia costs £40 per day, on average.
How much does a Small car hire cost in Philadelphia?
A Small car hire in Philadelphia costs £37 per day, on average.
How much does a Large car hire cost in Philadelphia?
A Large car hire in Philadelphia costs £88 per day, on average.
What is the most popular car hire location in Philadelphia?
In Philadelphia, cars are most frequently hired at Sixt 1500 Market Street (1 miles from city centre).
Should I get insurance when hiring a car in Philadelphia?
Most car hire providers in Philadelphia offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car hire in Philadelphia, check out KAYAK's car hire insurance guide.
I cancelled my reservation but keep receiving no show fees from budget. Have had to call several times. I assume this is related to a lack of communication between your systems. Very frustrating
8.0 Very Good
Anonymous, May 2026
Full-size SUV
The staff was absolutely terrific. The type of vehicle we needed was not available(exposition)The staff upgraded the reservation to get us a bigger Van to comfortably accommodate 5 adults a baby all the extra luggage.
8.0 Very Good
Anonymous, Apr 2026
Intermediate SUV
Everything was fine. Except when we return the car on Saturday, April 18 around 3 PM. The attendant said that my invoice would be sent to me probably by email never heard a peep from budget. Would like to know what’s going on.!!!
6.0 Okay
Anonymous, Mar 2026
Full-size SUV
Car was very nice. Easy shuttle ride the the Budget location. Wait time in Budget was long. 9 check-in desks and only 2 people working.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jan 2026
Standard
The vehicle kept being changed, Twice, and each time the rental increased. The explanation was mechanical issue with then original car. Which makes no sense since there are multiple version of the car and car class on their lot. Then upselling toll tags cheaper options exist but were not presented and when questioned said they dont exist. Having traveled most of my professional career i knew differently, but due to the circumstances, a family emergency, i had to go with their deal. Although the guy at the exit gate told me that i had been "hustled".
4.0 Mediocre
Anonymous, Oct 2025
Intermediate
Did not get car that I was told I would get. Car was poorly maintained, alignment and tire problems. Vibrated down highway. Staff has one speed which is slow.
Only one person was available to help multiple customers. Employee did not go over vehicle prior damages nor vehicle features with the customer. Drop off services were horrible. Employees at customer service phone number were not helpful nor could they answer questions to my problem.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Apr 2024
Intermediate
I landed at the airport and waited for the Payless shuttle van to show up. I saw the shuttle vans for Avis, Hertz, Alamo, etc. No Payless van. After 20 minutes, I tried to call the Payless location and they were closed. I had to rent another car from a company that was actually open (Avis). Please refund me my money for this rental since they were closed and I never picked up a car from them. Thanks.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Dec 2023
Intermediate
Best value with the least hassle
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Nov 2023
Intermediate
Staff is friendly and allowed for a welcoming environment. Value of the car was note worthy. The car could have been cleaner.
1.5 hours in the car pickupline to get the car and then was charged 3 times for it because there system was having issues.
2.0 Poor
John, Feb 2026
Compact SUV
Completely disappointing. When I arrived at the Dollar pick up spot, there was a long line Z. People said they had been waiting for more than an hour, and still only halfway through. I walked over to Budget. There was no one in line. Rented a car in minutes and was on my way, for $80 more. Good riddance to Dollar.
2.0 Poor
Vincent, Aug 2024
Compact
I set up my reservation online well in advance (and specifically turned down additional coverage) but the reserved car was not ready for me when I arrived, so I had to go to the desk where they apparently signed me up for the additional coverage I had previously opted out of - and I didn't find this out until the end of my rental when they charged my card for $200 more than expected. Be very careful when dealing with desk agents, they will scam you!
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Aug 2024
Standard SUV
The car was just as described very nice car to drive, but I had problem with learning all the gizmos that it had. I was finally able to figure some of them out. Very comfortable and easy to drive.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Aug 2024
Full-size
Very lucky to get a car at the last minute. Thanks for a great experience!
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Aug 2024
Full-size SUV
The website said you could rent with a debit card. Then told me I had to use a credit card. Then did not refund any of the money I paid. This is unacceptable. I also can not call in because nobody ever answers the phone. It’s an automated line that says 10 min wait every time you call no matter what day or time.
Picked up the car at Philadelphia airport. The car was not cleaned and smelled of heavy smoke and Weed. Called to report it and ask for an exchange. They were not helpful and said my options were to have it detailed for $100, put some air fresheners in the car or drive back to the airport and see if they had a full sized SUV available but we’re not able to guarantee this. We rented this size of vehicle to move my son to a new university so smaller wasn’t an option. I did my best to clean the vehicle as I didn’t have time to try and navigate getting the car detailed and $100 would not cover it. I put arm and hammer hanging deodorizer in the vehicle and drove mostly with the windows down. Upon the beginning of our drive about 1 hour outside of Philadelphia we had a flat tire on the Pennsylvania Turnpike which was dangerous. Fortunately an emergency pull off zone was there as this started to happen so we were able to pull off safely. The only authorized company on the turnpike came 2.5-3 hours later to change the tire and direct us to a tire shop. This cost me $90. We proceeded to search and find a tire shop to check the tire out. They said the leak was from a failed patch but they could repair it from the inside. They did so and we were able to restart our journey. This delayed our trip 6 hours and caused a lot of stress to our trip. Sadly, I am not really happy with my experience with Hertz☹️
4.0 Mediocre
Sara, Sept 2025
Standard SUV
My car smelled horrible; like dirt and stale smoke. It was disgusting.
4.0 Mediocre
Anonymous, Mar 2025
Intermediate SUV
I was not texted a pickup spot, there were no suvs left in gold slots even tho I was told to choose one from there, car I did get from another area had not been washed. I was just left to stumble around until I went back to the office. Ver6 poke experience.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jan 2025
Intermediate
very good
4.0 Mediocre
Mark, Oct 2024
Intermediate SUV
Washer solvent for windshield needed refil.....car was dirty inside and out.. not good.
8.0 Very Good
Anonymous, Oct 2024
Full-size
Check in was quick and smooth. Returns area was understaffed. One person doing the mid-morning returns. Longer than expected wait.
The car was dirty. The inside of the windshield was filthy. Please clean your cars, especially the windshield inside and out.
10.0 Wonderful
Lisa, Aug 2024
Economy
Kind and polite customer service. Clean vehicle.
6.0 Okay
Anonymous, Aug 2024
Standard SUV
It was ok ,
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jul 2024
Standard SUV
Picking it up was pretty messy. And they were going to charge me twice once at the desk and then again as I was leaving the gate when she attempted to charge me as I was leaving the gate, I called it out and she said that there were two reservations that’s why they were charging me double. I told them no there was only one issued it through KAYAK and she insisted I had two reservations, so she ended up fixing it but cleary the kayak booking through other travel partners it got double booked somehow so I would recommend looking into that problem.
2.0 Poor
Ha, Jul 2024
Premium SUV
The care smell like weed, drove off the lot of a damage tire.
Billed is an extra $95 in facility fees that weren’t quoted in my email confirmation. I asked why, and was told some places can charge those fees and it’s. Too to them and they wouldn’t credit them back. Wouldn’t recommend
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, May 2026
Full-size SUV
Old raggedy taho
8.0 Very Good
Ellen, Mar 2026
Supplier choice
The staff was fine. They were extremely helpful and very friendly. The car was not the best and I wasn’t clear on whether I needed to fill the tank and so I probably spent more money than I should have.
6.0 Okay
Felicia, Jul 2025
People carrier
I believe the communication could’ve been better. I walked in with hopes that I’d get a spacious mini van for my family of seven, but got a SUV with less comfort.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Apr 2025
People carrier
They only asked me about insurance once. It was easy and smooth
No one showed up to open the office at 7 am when my car was due for pick up. Employee called out and wasn’t able to get my car for 2 more hours thus delaying my whole day
10.0 Wonderful
Andy, Sept 2024
Luxury SUV
Very pleased using Sixt. They were helpful, quick, and the car was perfect.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Sept 2024
Standard
I booked to pick up the car at 7pm. When I got to the location at 7pm I was told they have closed . I saw a gentle man inside the store and another gentleman sited outside the store. And they both told me they have closed. I was never told the store closed at 7pm. Also I got there at 7pm as booked but never attended to. That’s not professional. If you agree to attend to a customer at 7pm, you should honor your agreement . That messes up all my plans as I intended to travel that night
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Apr 2024
Full-size
literally best car rental experience I have ever had. Seriously!!
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Nov 2022
great workers
8.0 Very Good
Anonymous, Oct 2022
There was a little bit of a wait for pick-up - another clerk would have helped. But everyone was courteous and it was very efficient. Interior of car could have been a little cleaner.
Nothing will NEVER rent with them or they Kayak again
2.0 Poor
Uwe, Apr 2026
People carrier
Avis never again. Rip off. I did try to extend my rental but they tried to charge me more than double the price per day than they showed on the previous rental. Had to go next door to Alamo to get a car and Alamo was friendly and gave me even an upgrade for half the price.
6.0 Okay
Pesach, Apr 2026
People carrier
i didnt receive any email notifying me that my car was returned
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Nov 2025
Full-size SUV
The minute we were give the car we were asked if they had an alternative to which we were abruptly told “no” the car smelled (mix of air freshener and smoke) there were holes in the driver and passenger side floor carpet- not the mats. We had a 3 hour drive the car was unstable and shoot at speeds over 45-50. the next morning the car was replaced when the car arrived and we opened the door- the small of marijuana was horrific. Even the delivery driver acknowledged it: We had to travel the next morning for a family situation so we didn’t have the time (or energy) to go through the exchange process. Every morning we opened all windows ran the car and the A/c to try to reduce the smell for wherever we had to travel. While that helped the smell was so permeated in the car it really did not make a big difference (it helped maybe 25%). Because of this we (and our clothes) and our passengers smelled of Marijuana for 12 days. I could not drive my young niece (13 years old)and her friends to school or sports events because of how she would smell upon arrival. I took my mother to a retirement community smelling of marijuana. While in isolation this might cause a chuckle- in reality it as mortifying and horribly inappropriate. At 56 I am a very seasoned traveler having lived and traveled extensively on 5 continents. This is the single WORST car rental ever.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Sept 2025
Intermediate SUV
Horrible after a 3-hour flight I just wanted to get a car and get to my hotel to sleep mind you I landed at 1:15 am. Only one person is at the counter she is rude its a line of 9/10 people took over an hour and I was told that they didn't have the type of car I reservation for I would have to pay extra for an upgrade I refused
Very comfy, reasonable prices, nice cars, excellent service
8.0 Very Good
Anonymous, Oct 2025
Full-size
Good
2.0 Poor
Jaylen, Aug 2025
Pick-up truck
Offer a better refund policy for flights out of customer’s control
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jun 2025
Compact
I prepaid for the rental and my flight time was changed where the rental office was closed early on the day of my arrival. I tried numerous times and there was no local phone number for the location for my rental at the airport. Customer service was not able to assist, and also denied a refund for my rental.I was not able to pick up my rental and was charged the full cost of the rental as well. Highly unsatisfied.
10.0 Wonderful
Jamie, Jan 2025
Compact SUV
Everything was seamless, price was great, vehicle was perfect and pick up and drop off were super easy.
Some Philadelphia car providers already include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection Waiver into the hire price but not all of them. We recommend being aware of your coverage when hiring a car in Philadelphia.
Keep in mind that car hire insurances often have a deductible clause, which is the amount you’ll have to pay if something happens during the time of your hire. If you want to avoid unwanted surprises, you should consider adding a non-deductible option to your Philadelphia car hire.
Small, Medium, SUV, Large, Van, Luxury, Pickup truck
Hire locations
97
Airport locations
23
Popular agencies
Turo, Budget
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