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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Manhattan
Manhattan
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Manhattan
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Manhattan
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Manhattan
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Manhattan?
Manhattan, while known for its excellent public transportation, offers unique opportunities where a rental car can be advantageous. Renting a car in Manhattan provides flexibility to explore areas outside the immediate city centre and enjoy day trips to nearby regions.
Explore Beyond Manhattan: A rental car provides the freedom to easily venture beyond Manhattan to discover the broader New York area, including the scenic landscapes of upstate New York or the beaches of Long Island.
Convenience for Out-of-City Travel: If you plan to visit other boroughs or travel to nearby states, a car offers the most direct and comfortable transportation option, especially when travelling with luggage or a group.
Personalised Itinerary: Public transportation can be limiting. With a rental car, you can create your own itinerary and visit specific destinations at your own pace, ensuring a more personalised travel experience.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Manhattan
Before renting a car in Manhattan, it’s crucial to understand the specific terms and conditions to ensure a smooth rental experience. Key aspects include age requirements, necessary documentation, insurance policies, and potential fees.
Area
22.7 square miles (59 square kilometres)
Population
Approximately 1.6 million residents
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST), GMT-5
Ideal for
Out-of-city excursions
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Manhattan require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, renters under 25 may be subject to additional surcharges.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English. Ensure you also have a passport or additional photo ID.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is typically included, but options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) are available for extra coverage. A security deposit is held on your credit card and returned upon the vehicle's safe return.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy, as some rentals offer unlimited mileage while others have restrictions. Fuel policies often require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesExtra fees may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or add-ons like GPS navigation systems and child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Manhattan – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €11 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
7 Seater:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €14 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand from tourists and holidaymakers.
Low season (November to February): Rental rates often come with discounts as demand decreases during the colder months.
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Manhattan?
Booking a car in Manhattan involves a few key steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best rates from various rental companies based on your dates and requirements.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, whether it’s an economy car for city trips or an SUV for longer journeys.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review the rental agreement for mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking well in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any required identification when collecting your rental vehicle.
General Information About Manhattan
Manhattan is a bustling hub with unique driving conditions. Being aware of traffic rules, parking options, and fuel availability is essential for a smooth driving experience.
Manhattan, a borough of New York City, is renowned for its iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and vibrant atmosphere. While the borough is well-served by public transport, renting a car can be beneficial for exploring areas outside the city centre or for day trips to surrounding regions. However, driving in Manhattan presents challenges, including heavy traffic, congestion charges, and limited parking.
Top Attractions to Discover
Times Square
The iconic entertainment district known for its bright lights and bustling crowds.
Central Park
A sprawling urban oasis offering recreational activities and scenic views.
Statue of Liberty
A symbol of freedom and democracy, accessible by ferry.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Utilise parking garages offered by companies like Icon Parking and SP Plus for secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available but limited, and regulations must be followed carefully to avoid tickets.
Park & Ride
Consider parking outside Manhattan and using public transportation to enter the borough.
Gas Stations in Manhattan
Limited Availability in the Centre
Gas stations are scarce in central Manhattan, so plan your refuelling stops accordingly.
Major Brands on Outskirts
Find major fuel brands like Shell and Mobil on the outskirts of the borough and along major highways.
Use Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps to locate nearby gas stations in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Manhattan
Use Contactless Payment
Use contactless payment methods for subway and bus fares for convenience.
Watch for Pedestrians & Cyclists
Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in crowded areas.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during peak hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM) due to heavy congestion.
Key Transportation Hubs in Manhattan
Major Bus Stations
Port Authority Bus Terminal
One of the largest bus terminals in the world, serving commuter and long-distance routes.
Railway Stations
Grand Central Terminal
A historic train station with Metro-North Railroad services.
Pennsylvania Station
Serves Amtrak, Long Island Rail Road, and New Jersey Transit lines.
Airports
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Located in Queens, it is one of the busiest international airports in the world.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
Located in Queens, serving primarily domestic flights.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Located in New Jersey, it provides another option for accessing the New York metropolitan area.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Manhattan?
Renting a car in Manhattan requires fulfilling specific criteria. Here's what you need
A valid driver’s license is mandatory. International visitors might need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their original license.
Most companies require renters to be at least 21 years old, with potential surcharges for those under 25.
A credit or debit card in the renter's name is needed for the security deposit. Some companies prefer credit cards.
A passport or government-issued photo ID may be necessary, especially for international renters.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Manhattan as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Heard so much about Manhattan; driving there was a breeze!
David Lee
Reviewed: 18.03.2025
I'd heard great things about Manhattan, and they were all true! Having a car made exploring so much easier, allowing us to see so many hidden gems. Highly recommend!
Jessica Brown
Reviewed: 26.05.2025
So glad I finally visited Manhattan! Everything lived up to the hype. Having a car made getting around incredibly easy, and I saw so much more than I expected.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 12.06.2025
Family vacation in Manhattan was perfect; easy car rental made exploring a breeze.
Evelyn Reed
Reviewed: 17.04.2025
Wonderful spontaneous weekend! Manhattan exceeded expectations. Having a car made exploring all the diverse neighborhoods so convenient and fun.
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 24.02.2025
Pretty good, I guess.
Brian Wilson
Reviewed: 10.01.2025
Pretty chill, actually.
Chloe Garcia
Reviewed: 16.10.2024
Pretty cool, I guess.
Kevin Nguyen
Reviewed: 24.05.2025
Summer in Manhattan was fantastic; so easy getting around!
Maya Hansen
Reviewed: 19.06.2025
Manhattan was amazing! Getting around with a rental car was surprisingly easy, and it let us explore beyond the usual tourist spots. We saw so much, from Central Park to the charming side streets – a truly unforgettable trip!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 30.11.2024