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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Modesto
Modesto
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Modesto
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Modesto
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Modesto
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in Modesto?
Modesto, California, offers a blend of urban attractions and access to the surrounding natural beauty of the Central Valley. While ride-sharing services are available, renting a car provides the flexibility to explore Modesto and its neighboring regions at your own pace.
Explore the Central Valley. Modesto serves as an excellent base for exploring Yosemite National Park, the Sierra Nevada foothills, and other scenic destinations within a few hours' drive. A rental car lets you embark on day trips and weekend adventures without the constraints of public transportation schedules.
Convenience for Families and Groups. If you're traveling with family or a group, a rental car offers ample space for luggage and passengers, making it easier to navigate Modesto's attractions and beyond. Avoid the hassle of coordinating multiple ride-sharing vehicles or relying on limited public transportation options.
Visit Local Attractions. Modesto is home to attractions like the Gallo Center for the Arts, the McHenry Mansion, and the Vintage Faire Mall. With a rental car, you can easily visit these spots and discover hidden gems throughout the city without worrying about transportation logistics.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Modesto
Before booking a rental car in Modesto, understand the rental terms and conditions. Key considerations include age requirements, driver's license policies, insurance coverage, mileage restrictions, and fuel policies. Being aware of these factors ensures a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
45.1 square miles
Population
Approximately 215,000 residents
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Ideal for
Exploring the Central Valley
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.0/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Modesto require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Renters under 25 may be subject to additional fees or restrictions on vehicle types.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver's license is required for all rentals. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English. A passport or other form of identification is typically required.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard rentals include basic insurance, but additional coverage options are available, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) and supplemental liability protection. A security deposit is usually held on the renter's credit card and refunded upon vehicle return.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicySome rentals come with unlimited mileage, while others may have restrictions. Fuel policies vary—many require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS and child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Modesto – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20
SUV:
from £9 / $11 / €10
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often come with discounts
*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 Modesto?
Compare prices, choose the right car, and review rental terms to avoid surprises. Book early for the best rates, especially in peak seasons. Don’t forget your license, credit card, and ID when picking up the vehicle.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison site like rentycars.com to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s an economy car for city driving or an SUV for longer trips.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
General Information About Modesto
Modesto is a city in California's Central Valley, known for its agricultural heritage and cultural attractions. Ideal for day trips and exploration, it's best experienced with an understanding of local traffic and parking regulations.
Modesto, California, offers a mix of urban attractions and access to the surrounding natural beauty of the Central Valley. Known for its agricultural heritage and cultural offerings, Modesto provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. While Modesto has public transportation options, renting a car is a practical choice for those planning to explore beyond the city center.
Top Attractions to Discover
Gallo Center for the Arts
A premier performing arts venue showcasing a variety of shows and performances.
McHenry Mansion
A beautifully preserved Victorian-era mansion offering guided tours and historical insights.
Vintage Faire Mall
A large shopping center with a wide range of retail stores and dining options.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use city-operated parking garages for secure and convenient parking in downtown Modesto.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on many streets, but be mindful of time limits and restrictions.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities located on the outskirts of the city and utilize public transportation to reach downtown.
Gas Stations in Modesto
Major Brands
Find gas stations from major brands like Chevron, Shell, and Arco throughout Modesto.
Convenient Locations
Refueling is generally easy, with gas stations located along major thoroughfares and highways.
Use Navigation Apps
Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby stations in real time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Modesto
Plan for Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM / 4:00–6:00 PM) when roads are often heavily congested.
Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during hot summer months, to stay hydrated while exploring the city.
Check Event Schedules
Check local event calendars for festivals, concerts, and other events that may affect traffic and parking.
Explore Local Cuisine
Sample the diverse culinary scene, including farm-to-table restaurants and ethnic eateries.
Key Transportation Hubs in Modesto
Bus Stations
Modesto Transit Center
Serves as the primary hub for local bus routes and connections.
Railway Stations
Modesto Amtrak Station
Provides passenger rail service to destinations throughout California and beyond.
Airports
Modesto City-County Airport (MOD)
Offers limited commercial flights and general aviation services.
Stockton Metropolitan Airport (SCK)
Located approximately 30 miles northwest of Modesto, offering a wider range of flights.
Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
Located about 90 miles north of Modesto, providing extensive domestic and international flight options.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Modesto?
Renting a car in the United States is generally straightforward, but it's essential to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road. Here's what you'll need
If you're a U.S. resident, your state-issued driver's license is sufficient. Visitors from most countries can use their home-country license for a limited period, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Renters under 25 may be subject to additional fees.
A valid credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies may prefer or require a credit card.
A passport or another form of identification may be required, particularly for international renters.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Modesto as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the 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.
Pretty chill, actually.
Mike Johnson
Reviewed: 05.03.2025
Modesto was great! Renting a car made seeing friends so easy. Highly recommend.
Sarah Lee
Reviewed: 16.04.2025
Pretty relaxed vibe
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 14.03.2025
Having a car was perfect for exploring Modesto this summer! So much to see and do.
Jessica Miller
Reviewed: 16.03.2025
Modesto visit was effortless; saw friends, explored easily.
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 15.12.2024
Pretty laid-back, really.
Brian Wilson
Reviewed: 14.08.2025
Relaxing, low-key trip
Kevin Brown
Reviewed: 04.05.2025
Low-key, kinda fun
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 31.07.2025