KAYAK’s insights & trends for Charlottesville car hire
Check out the latest trends and booking tips to hire a car in Charlottesville with confidence.
How far in advance should you book a rental car in Charlottesville?
You should book your rental car in Charlottesville around 81 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.
What is the most popular rental car in Charlottesville?
Hires in the SUV category (Nissan Pathfinder or similar) are the most popular option in Charlottesville, costing ₹ 6,707/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as ₹ 5,050/day.
What is the cheapest month to hire a car in Charlottesville?
The cheapest month to hire a car in Charlottesville is January at an average cost of ₹ 5,145/day. May is the most expensive month to hire a car in Charlottesville when prices are ₹ 7,337/day on average, which tends to be 11% above the yearly average hire price for Charlottesville.
Which car hire company in Charlottesville has the most locations?
Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates 3 locations in Charlottesville, more than any other car hire company.
Charlottesville car rental price comparison by vehicle type
Find the right rental car in Charlottesville by comparing prices across vehicle types.
Small
Medium
Large
4x4
Van
Pickup truck
Luxury
Small cars
₹ 4,144 - ₹ 7,146
All Car Types
₹ 7,061 - ₹ 9,934
How much does it cost to hire a small car in Charlottesville?
How much does it cost to hire a medium car in Charlottesville?
How much does it cost to hire a large car in Charlottesville?
How much does it cost to hire an SUV in Charlottesville?
How much does it cost to hire a van in Charlottesville?
How much does it cost to hire a pickup truck in Charlottesville?
How much does it cost to hire a luxury car in Charlottesville?
Small car hire in Charlottesville typically costs around ₹ 5,816 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average ₹ 4,144 per day, which is about 29% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 34% cheaper than the average car hire in Charlottesville, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
Medium car hire in Charlottesville typically costs around ₹ 7,918 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average ₹ 6,264 per day, which is about 21% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 10% cheaper than the average car hire in Charlottesville, offering a good balance of space and value.
Large car hire in Charlottesville typically costs around ₹ 8,948 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average ₹ 7,177 per day, which is about 20% less than the yearly average. Large cars are typically 2% more expensive than the average car hire in Charlottesville but offer more comfort for longer trips.
SUV hire in Charlottesville typically costs around ₹ 9,415 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average ₹ 7,867 per day, which is about 17% less than the yearly average. SUVs are typically 7% more expensive than the average car hire in Charlottesville but provide extra space and capability for groups or road trips.
Van hire in Charlottesville typically costs around ₹ 11,409 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average ₹ 8,384 per day, which is about 27% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 24% more expensive than the average car hire in Charlottesville but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.
Pickup truck hire in Charlottesville typically costs around ₹ 7,971 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average ₹ 6,574 per day, which is about 18% less than the yearly average. Pickup trucks are 10% cheaper than the average car hire in Charlottesville, making them a practical choice for hauling gear or outdoor adventures.
Luxury car hire in Charlottesville typically costs around ₹ 12,399 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average ₹ 10,290 per day, which is about 18% less than the yearly average. Luxury cars are typically 30% more expensive than the average car hire in Charlottesville but deliver premium comfort and style for special occasions.
Good to know
Most popular car type
Medium
Charlottesville car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users
Insights shared by verified travellers who rented a car in Charlottesville
If you use the Pantops location, be sure to know your insurance information or be prepared for extra charges of their collision protection!
Verified travelerSept 2023
Allow enough time to thoughtfully go through the car before you drive off in it. But the staff in Charlottesville was very friendly and kind.
AnemoneJun 2023
I did not stay in Charlottesville. My SUV broke down in the mountains and I just rented from there.
JameelJun 2023
Maybe more staff. One person had to do all the work of checking in and out vehicles.
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Charlottesville
If you're looking to experience as much as you possibly can from your Charlottesville trip, having a rental car can go a long way. Transportation plays a major role in how well you can enjoy your trip and how much you can do in the amount of time you have. Most cars from car rentals in Charlottesville come equipped with high-tech GPS navigational systems that will help you reach the city’s hidden spots. You won't have to worry about getting there or getting back because everything will be at your own pace. Besides, renting a car is budget-friendly, especially if you're traveling in a group or with children. Even better, you can explore outside the city and enjoy some wine at Cardinal Point Winery, which is about 24 miles away. The Massanutten Indoor Waterpark, situated about 56 miles away from the city, is another popular day excursion.
The Charlottesville Albemarle Airport has an on-site rental car counter where you can conveniently pick up your car once you arrive. It's located in the baggage claim lobby. Just follow the "Arrivals" and "Baggage Claim" signs to get there. This is where you'll find Charlottesville car rentals, including National, Budget, and Hertz. The cars are located right outside the baggage claim.
Jaywalking violations are no longer enforceable in Virginia, so it is advisable to watch out for pedestrians that may be inattentive when crossing the street, whether on a marked crosswalk or not. Cyclists are also allowed on the road and even though they’re advised to ride as close to the sidewalk as possible, make sure you keep three feet between you and the bike when passing them.
You may have to commute early because the morning rush hour starts around 7am and ends around 10am. Interstate 64, in particular, gets congested, and traffic on US 29, especially close to the US 250 bypass, often drags for miles during evening rush hours, which span from 4pm to 6pm. If you can hang out where you are and wait until 7pm, you'll get to your destination much faster. You might experience snow and patches of slippery ice on Charlottesville roads during the winter, so you’ll want to choose the right kind of vehicle for these conditions.
Medium rental cars in Charlottesville are around 33% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Charlottesville
What type of car is recommended for driving in Charlottesville?
Charlottesville is a city well-suited for on-road cars unless you specifically intend to go off-roading on some of the trails around the city. You can choose any car from a premium to an economy or a standard SUV, depending on your needs and budget. If you're bringing kids to the city, a minivan or station wagon is an ideal choice. If you're here on business, consider getting a premium or luxury car from car rentals in Charlottesville.
What’s the speed limit in Charlottesville?
In Charlottesville, VA, the statutory speed limit for all highways is 55mph, and in business or residential areas, you have to adhere to a limit of 25mph. When driving your rented car on unpaved roads, you need to maintain a limit of 35mph, and when cruising around school zones, you have to drive at 25mph.
Where are the best places to park in Charlottesville?
On-street parking in the city streets around the mall is free for a maximum of 2h. If you need to park longer, you'll find parking garages in the immediate vicinity of the downtown area. The Market Street Garage and Water Street Garage offer free parking for the first hour, then charge about $1 for every half-hour after that.
How can I find car hires near me in Charlottesville?
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 rental cost in Charlottesville?
A Medium car hire in Charlottesville costs ₹ 5,944 per day, on average.
How much does a Small car rental cost in Charlottesville?
A Small car hire in Charlottesville costs ₹ 9,491 per day, on average.
How much does a Special car hire cost in Charlottesville?
A Special car hire in Charlottesville costs ₹ 4,896 per day, on average.
Easy pick up and return. Professional stuff. Good pricing
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, May 2022
The inside front window needed some cleaning. Otherwise, it was terrific. I loved the car (Toyota Camry), the people were nice, and the whole process was very quick and smooth. Thanks!
1 out of 6
Alamo
10.0
Wonderful
Cleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
One location in Charlottesville
Locations in Charlottesville
100 Bowen Loop
+1 844 934 1095
Monday
08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday
08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday
08:00 - 23:59
Thursday
08:00 - 23:59
Friday
08:00 - 23:59
Saturday
08:00 - 23:59
Sunday
08:00 - 23:59
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Apr 2025
Compact
Will rent from Alamo again
1 out of 1
Hertz
8.0
Very Good
Cleanliness
7.4
Comfort
7.7
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.0
Value for money
7.4
2 locations in Charlottesville
Locations in Charlottesville
100 Bowen Loop #200
+1 434 208 1295
Monday
08:00 - 23:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 23:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 23:00
Thursday
08:00 - 23:00
Friday
08:00 - 23:00
Saturday
08:00 - 23:00
Sunday
08:00 - 23:00
104 Meade Ave
+1 434 978 4433
Monday
08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 17:00
Thursday
08:00 - 17:00
Friday
08:00 - 17:00
Saturday
09:00 - 12:00
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Aug 2024
Supplier choice
They cancelled my reservation because they didn’t have any cars. No apology. I then had to wait for a ride or pay $300 for an Uber. Poor process. If there wasn’t cars to rent, I shouldn’t have been given the option to reserve one.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jul 2024
Economy
Hertz website let us search non airport locations easily. The guy at the location was friendly and professional especially considering the CloudStrike cyber issue that was affecting all systems.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jan 2024
Supplier choice
They didn’t have a car - any car! Had to wait an extra 1.5-2 hours and ride to a local body shop to get the not-cleaned car.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Dec 2021
Under staffed, car was filthy,1/4 tank of gas. Paid up front and had to wait a hr to pick up cat
1 out of 3
Avis
7.4
Good
Cleanliness
7.8
Comfort
8.4
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.7
Value for money
7.5
One location in Charlottesville
Locations in Charlottesville
100 Bowen Loop Suite 102
+1 434 973 6000
Monday
08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday
08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday
08:00 - 23:59
Thursday
08:00 - 23:59
Friday
08:00 - 23:59
Saturday
09:00 - 23:59
Sunday
09:00 - 23:59
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jun 2026
Intermediate SUV
The customer service agent was kind and helped me through the rental process quickly. The car was a great size and in great shape.
2.0 Poor
Brandon, Aug 2024
Intermediate
Front driver side of bumper was detached, several damage spots around car. Water bottle/trash left from previous renter
1 out of 2
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
6.3
Okay
Cleanliness
6.5
Comfort
6.7
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.7
Value for money
6.4
3 locations in Charlottesville
Locations in Charlottesville
100 Bowen Loop
+1 844 934 1096
Monday
08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday
08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday
08:00 - 23:59
Thursday
08:00 - 23:59
Friday
08:00 - 23:59
Saturday
08:00 - 23:59
Sunday
08:00 - 23:59
1650 Seminole Trl
+1 434 974 7488
Monday
08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday
08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday
08:00 - 17:30
Thursday
08:00 - 17:30
Friday
08:00 - 17:30
Saturday
09:00 - 12:00
Sunday
10:00 - 13:00
392 Pantops Center
+1 434 979 5566
Monday
08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 18:00
Thursday
08:00 - 18:00
Friday
08:00 - 18:00
Saturday
Sunday
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Aug 2026
Intermediate SUV
Despite the reservation, I was told no cars were available. Ended up having to take a Lyft for a 2 hour drive
4.0 Mediocre
Anonymous, Sept 2024
Full-size SUV
The suv was rather old and needed to be detailed. It showed over 50,000 miles of wear.
10.0 Wonderful
William, Sept 2024
Compact
Awesome all the way around. Great car, great service
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Dec 2023
Pick-up truck
The rental car (pickup truck) that was requested was not available. No other suitable options were available either.
1 out of 3
National
6.0
Okay
Cleanliness
6.6
Comfort
7.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.0
Value for money
4.6
One location in Charlottesville
Locations in Charlottesville
100 Bowen Loop
+1 844 934 1095
Monday
08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday
08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday
08:00 - 23:59
Thursday
08:00 - 23:59
Friday
08:00 - 23:59
Saturday
08:00 - 23:59
Sunday
08:00 - 23:59
Filters
No reviews available
Dollar
2.0
Poor
Cleanliness
2.0
Comfort
2.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
2.0
Value for money
2.0
2 locations in Charlottesville
Locations in Charlottesville
100 Bowen Loop
+1 866 434 2226
Monday
08:00 - 23:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 23:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 23:00
Thursday
08:00 - 23:00
Friday
08:00 - 23:00
Saturday
08:00 - 23:00
Sunday
08:00 - 23:00
104 Meade Ave
+1 434 978 4433
Monday
08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 17:00
Thursday
08:00 - 17:00
Friday
08:00 - 17:00
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Nov 2025
Intermediate
Bad, impossible to cancel.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Nov 2024
Full-size
They would not recognize the reservation and said they had no cars
Thrifty
6.0
Okay
2 locations in Charlottesville
Locations in Charlottesville
100 Bowen Loop
+1 866 434 2226
Monday
08:00 - 23:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 23:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 23:00
Thursday
08:00 - 23:00
Friday
08:00 - 23:00
Saturday
08:00 - 23:00
Sunday
08:00 - 23:00
104 Meade Ave
+1 434 978 4433
Monday
08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 17:00
Thursday
08:00 - 17:00
Friday
08:00 - 17:00
Filters
No reviews available
Easirent
4.5
Mediocre
Cleanliness
5.2
Comfort
5.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.5
Value for money
5.1
One location in Charlottesville
Locations in Charlottesville
Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
Sunnycars
No score available yet
One location in Charlottesville
Locations in Charlottesville
100 Bowen Loop
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
79 travellers who rented a car in Charlottesville gave the car agency they used an average rating of 4.7
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