San Luis Obispo car hire

Driver's age: 25-65

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Cheap car rentals in San Luis Obispo

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Booking Insights

KAYAK’s insights & trends for San Luis Obispo car hire

Check out the latest trends and booking tips to hire a car in San Luis Obispo with confidence.

How far in advance should you book a rental car in San Luis Obispo?

You should book your rental car in San Luis Obispo around 38 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.

What is the most popular rental car in San Luis Obispo?

Hires in the SUV category (Jeep Wrangler or similar) are the most popular option in San Luis Obispo, costing ₹ 9,172/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as ₹ 3,630/day.

What is the cheapest month to hire a car in San Luis Obispo?

The cheapest month to hire a car in San Luis Obispo is January at an average cost of ₹ 4,935/day. July is the most expensive month to hire a car in San Luis Obispo when prices are ₹ 6,453/day on average, which tends to be 12% above the yearly average hire price for San Luis Obispo.

Which car hire company in San Luis Obispo has the most locations?

Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates 4 locations in San Luis Obispo, more than any other car hire company.

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San Luis Obispo car rental price comparison by vehicle type

Find the right rental car in San Luis Obispo by comparing prices across vehicle types.

Small cars

₹ 4,317 - ₹ 6,168

All Car Types

₹ 6,868 - ₹ 8,875

How much does it cost to hire a small car in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to hire a medium car in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to hire a large car in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to hire an SUV in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to hire a van in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to hire a pickup truck in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to hire a luxury car in San Luis Obispo?

How much does it cost to hire a convertible in San Luis Obispo?

Small car hire in San Luis Obispo typically costs around ₹ 5,140 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average ₹ 4,317 per day, which is about 17% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 35% cheaper than the average car hire in San Luis Obispo, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers.

Medium car hire in San Luis Obispo typically costs around ₹ 5,968 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average ₹ 5,124 per day, which is about 15% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 24% cheaper than the average car hire in San Luis Obispo, offering a good balance of space and value.

Large car hire in San Luis Obispo typically cost around ₹ 6,745 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average ₹ 5,219 per day, which is about 23% less than the yearly average. Large cars can be 14% cheaper than the average car hire in San Luis Obispo, offering more comfort for longer trips at a reasonable price.

SUV hire in San Luis Obispo typically costs around ₹ 8,211 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average ₹ 6,595 per day, which is about 20% less than the yearly average. SUVs are typically 5% more expensive than the average car hire in San Luis Obispo but provide extra space and capability for groups or road trips.

Van hire in San Luis Obispo typically costs around ₹ 12,431 per day. The best time to book is September, when prices average ₹ 11,008 per day, which is about 12% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 37% more expensive than the average car hire in San Luis Obispo but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.

Pickup truck hire in San Luis Obispo typically costs around ₹ 7,844 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average ₹ 5,314 per day, which is about 33% less than the yearly average. Pickup trucks are typically 1% more expensive than the average car hire in San Luis Obispo but are ideal for hauling gear or outdoor adventures.

Luxury car hire in San Luis Obispo typically costs around ₹ 8,751 per day. The best time to book is June, when prices average ₹ 7,022 per day, which is about 20% less than the yearly average. Luxury cars are typically 11% more expensive than the average car hire in San Luis Obispo but deliver premium comfort and style for special occasions.

Convertible hire in San Luis Obispo typically costs around ₹ 8,991 per day. The best time to book is March, when prices average ₹ 7,022 per day, which is about 22% less than the yearly average. Convertibles are typically 13% more expensive than the average car hire in San Luis Obispo but are perfect for scenic drives and warm-weather destinations.

Good to know

Most popular car type

Medium

San Luis Obispo car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users

Insights shared by verified travellers who rented a car in San Luis Obispo 
Verified travelerJan 2026
Find the location ahead of time so they know where to find Avis. Ask the representative to show you where the car is in person and how to work it.
Verified travelerAug 2023
Book way in advance for good rates
HingMay 2023
It’s a tiny airport and the car rental facility was east to navigate.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in San Luis Obispo

  • Renting a car in San Luis Obispo is a convenient and flexible means of visiting the city and getting a feel of the culture. Several airports are remotely far from the town center, such as the Santa Barbara Airport, approximately 75.8 miles away, and the Los Angeles International Airport, 158.9 miles away, thus it is more ideal and cheaper to opt for rental cars in San Luis Obispo. There are also several sandy beaches, hot springs, and beautiful landscapes located a few miles out of town, easily accessible using a personal vehicle.
  • Some of the car rentals in San Luis Obispo are conveniently situated at the San Luis Obispo County (SBP) Airport, including Enterprise, Avis, Hertz, and Easier, which can be found at the baggage claim area at the Car Rental Center with the cars parked around 260 feet from the terminal. Off-site rentals, such as Budget, can be accessed via the airport shuttle, which is located on the east side of the terminal and are cheaper than taxis.
  • Like other major cities, visitors are advised to be cautious while on the road and observe traffic rules. There are a few intersections in San Luis Obispo which are known to be hazard zones, especially to speeding drivers, such as the Santa Rosa and Foothill intersection and Los Osos Valley and Calle Joaquin intersection. There are also a few cases of distracted driving, as well as jaywalkers and cyclists who fail to observe traffic laws. While selecting a vehicle in one of the car rentals in San Luis Obispo, it advisable to get GPS to be able to navigate through unfamiliar roads.
  • The rush hour in San Luis Obispo is pretty short-lived, with commuters spending an average of around 15 to 20min on the road, but is usually extended on roads undergoing construction. Rush hour in the morning is usually between 7:30am and 8:30am when people are leaving for work and school, and picks back up at 6pm to 7pm when people are heading back home. Heavy rains are also known to extend commute times in San Luis Obispo.
  • Small rental cars in San Luis Obispo are around 42% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in San Luis Obispo

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in San Luis Obispo?

    There are several options to choose from at San Luis Obispo car rentals, depending on whether you’re considering a solo trip or planning to explore the Central Coast area as a group. Compact vehicles are recommended for when your visit to San Luis Obispo is concentrated in the town, while large SUVs are more ideal for large numbers of people and are a more comfortable option for those who visit the landscape in the outskirts of town.

  • What’s the speed limit in San Luis Obispo?

    The statutory speed limit in San Luis Obispo is set at 50mph. School zones have a set speed limit of between 15mph and 40mph at specific times of the day, while the speed limit in the business district is 25mph. There are also a couple of speed traps set up on Foothill Ave between Casa St and California Blvd, as well as Northbound Hwy 1, thus motorists are advised to drive with caution.

  • Where are the best places to park in San Luis Obispo?

    There are several parking options available while on your stay in San Luis Obispo. There are parking garages such as the City of San Luis Obispo Parking as well as the Marsh Street Parking Structure, which closes at around 6pm and provide 1h free parking on weekdays, 2h free parking on Saturdays, and all-day free parking on Sundays. The municipal lot on Marsh St provides free parking for up to 2h. Parking is free in Downtown San Luis Obispo.

  • How can I find car hires near me in San Luis Obispo?

    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 San Luis Obispo?

    A Medium car hire in San Luis Obispo costs ₹ 5,248 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Large car rental cost in San Luis Obispo?

    A Large car hire in San Luis Obispo costs ₹ 6,362 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Small car rental cost in San Luis Obispo?

    A Small car hire in San Luis Obispo costs ₹ 8,014 per day, on average.

San Luis Obispo car rental reviews and directory

 

Avis

8.4

Very Good

Cleanliness

8.6

Comfort

8.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.4

Value for money

7.9

2 locations in San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

333 Madonna Road

+1 805 595 1464

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 13:00
Sunday10:00 - 14:00

975 Airport Drive, Suite 8

+1 805 544 0630

Monday08:00 - 23:00
Tuesday08:00 - 23:00
Wednesday08:00 - 23:00
Thursday08:00 - 23:00
Friday08:00 - 23:00
Saturday08:00 - 23:00
Sunday08:00 - 23:00

Filters

Reviews

6.0 Okay

Anonymous, Aug 2026

Supplier choice

KAYAK
They gave me all electric car without offering me an alternative. Never used one before and was not aware of the hassle it is to find a charging station.

10.0 Wonderful

Matt & Wendy, Apr 2026

Intermediate SUV

KAYAK
Quick check in and check out. Car was clean and new.

2.0 Poor

Mark, Apr 2026

Luxury

KAYAK
Avis promised a Cadillac, a full luxury car. Instead, they provided a Kia with 35,000 miles on it. It was a mediocre exchange. I asked for a financial compensation for that downgrade and I was told that Avis may take care of it later. It feels like a bait and switch to me.

4.0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Jan 2026

Standard SUV

KAYAK
Our pickup was in the back side of a motel with NO signs anywhere that said Avis. Hard to find and had to call Avis representatives to find office. The desk representative was not helpful and not very friendly… didn’t show us where the car was, how to work it, NOTHING.. I give her a zero. The car was nice and the drop off in Tuson was easy to find and the representative was very friendly and helpful.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Mar 2025

Pick-up truck

KAYAK
The entire experience was wonderful. The front desk staff was fantastic to work with.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Sept 2024

Standard

KAYAK
Pro:Easy check in. Improvement: Needed to call earlier that they were closing right when we were going to pick up car. Did not realize they closed same time we were to pick up car.

1 out of 8

Budget

7.7

Good

Cleanliness

7.9

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.4

Value for money

7.6

2 locations in San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

4554 Broad Street

+1 805 541 3977

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 12:00

975 Airport Drive, Suite 5

+1 805 541 2722

Monday08:00 - 22:00
Tuesday08:00 - 22:00
Wednesday08:00 - 22:00
Thursday08:00 - 22:00
Friday08:00 - 22:00
Saturday08:00 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 22:00

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Oct 2026

Intermediate

KAYAK
I was charged $300 for an “Out-of-State” Fee

10.0 Wonderful

Luther, Mar 2026

Intermediate

KAYAK
Counter service was a little slow but the agent was friendly. Walk to /from lot to the terminal is a bit inconvenient.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jul 2025

Intermediate

KAYAK
Please contact me

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jul 2025

Intermediate SUV

KAYAK
Rental agent was exceptionally helpful and very nice!

6.0 Okay

Daniel, May 2025

Economy

KAYAK
I requested a child’s booster seat and when I made the reservation, it didn’t cost extra. It just showed my total cost with seat included free. When I arrived for pickup, they informed me that it was an additional $15 per day. This obviously is frustrating for a renter to find out at this point. Not cool

10.0 Wonderful

Elizabeth, Sept 2024

Intermediate

KAYAK
TOO NOTCH!

1 out of 9

Hertz

7.3

Good

Cleanliness

7.3

Comfort

7.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

6.0

3 locations in San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

4554 Broad Street Suite #130

+1 805 781 3385

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00

4751 Aviadores Way

+1 805 781 3383

Monday09:00 - 21:30
Tuesday09:00 - 21:30
Wednesday09:00 - 21:30
Thursday09:00 - 21:30
Friday09:00 - 21:30
Saturday09:00 - 21:30
Sunday09:00 - 21:30

975 Airport Drive Ste.06

+1 805 781 3383

Monday09:00 - 22:30
Tuesday09:00 - 22:30
Wednesday09:00 - 22:30
Thursday09:00 - 22:30
Friday09:00 - 22:30
Saturday09:00 - 22:30
Sunday09:00 - 22:30

Filters

Reviews

4.0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Dec 2021

KAYAK
United Dropped me in DC and I had to Rent a Car to Drive myself home to VA Beach. I requested a FULL SIZE Car and got a Little KIA. It didn't even have Electric Seats or a Rear Window Wiper. The Driver who took us from Airport to Avis was Very Rude and insisted on playing his Radio Loud even when I explained I needed to Make an Important Phone Call.

1 out of 1

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

7.0

Good

Cleanliness

7.2

Comfort

7.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.2

Value for money

6.4

4 locations in San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

12318 Los Osos Valley Rd

+1 805 546 6270

Opening times not available

2989 Broad Street

+1 805 546 6270

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday
Sunday

975 Airport Dr

+1 844 942 0338

Monday08:00 - 20:00
Tuesday08:00 - 20:00
Wednesday08:00 - 20:00
Thursday08:00 - 20:00
Friday08:00 - 20:00
Saturday08:00 - 20:00
Sunday08:00 - 20:00

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Opening times not available

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jul 2026

Pick-up truck

KAYAK
I only needed the car for 3 hours. The 24 hour rate was a lot. A nice option for 12 hours or same day pickup/drop off discount

6.0 Okay

Loren, Jun 2026

Intermediate

KAYAK
The windows were not clean, inside and out. I had to buy cleaning solution and paper towels the next morning to clean them so I could see. Ridiculous !

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Dec 2024

Compact SUV

KAYAK
Great and easy collection, very helpful staff and easy drop off! Would use again for a rental car.

4.0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Nov 2024

Intermediate

KAYAK
When I went to pick up the car my credit card wasn't working when putting in the machine. The representative said he couldn't enter it manually. Finally it worked but almost had a heart attack if it didn't. Then on my on 2nd to last day the battery went bad had to call road side assistance and was told it would be a $55 charge. The AAA driver said it was the original battery and wouldn't hold a charge and probably would have to call the next morning. Fortunately I ran the car for about an hour and half and it did start the next day and the enterprise representative waived the fee.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Sept 2024

Compact

KAYAK
Car was not available upon arrival. No cars.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jun 2024

Standard

KAYAK
No car available

1 out of 2

National

8.1

Very Good

One location in San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

975 Airport Dr

+1 844 942 0338

Opening times not available

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 San Luis Obispo

Locations in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo County Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

101 travellers who rented a car in San Luis Obispo gave the car agency they used an average rating of 4.8

Car hire locations in or near San Luis Obispo

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Pismo Beach
Atascadero
Cambria
Morro Bay
Paso Robles
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San Luis Obispo car hire information

Pick-up locationSan Luis Obispo
Car types
Hire locations13
Airport locations7