The Best Car Rental Companies in Atlanta: Your Easy, No-Stress Guide

So, you’re planning a trip to Atlanta — or maybe your own car is in the shop. Either way, you need a reliable, affordable ride to get around. That’s where a car rental service in Atlanta comes in.

But with so many options out there, how do you know which car rental companies are actually the best?

Don't worry — we’ve got you. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top rental companies in Atlanta, what to look for, and how to save money while getting the wheels you need.

Let’s roll!

Why Rent a Car in Atlanta?

Atlanta is a big city. Public transportation exists, but it’s limited. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft work, but they can get pricey if you’re bouncing between meetings, tourist spots, or neighborhoods.

With a rental car, you get:

• Freedom to explore at your own pace

• Comfort (especially in that Southern summer heat!)

• Flexibility to go off the beaten path — like a day trip to Stone Mountain or Helen

What Makes a Car Rental Company “The Best”?

Not all rental companies are created equal. So how do we define “best”? Here’s what really matters:

• Price (obviously)

• Ease of booking

• Clean, well-maintained cars

• Good customer service

• Location convenience (airport vs city)

• No hidden fees

Top Car Rental Companies in Atlanta

Let’s break down some of the top-rated companies in Atlanta — whether you’re flying into Hartsfield-Jackson or picking up in Midtown.

1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Why people love it: Friendly staff, lots of locations, and a smooth experience
Best for: Local rentals, insurance replacements, long weekends
Tip: Sign up for their rewards program if you rent often

“I booked a last-minute SUV, and they had it ready in 10 minutes. Super helpful and no surprises.” — Maria, Atlanta

2. Hertz

Why it’s great: Fast pick-up at the airport, wide variety of cars
Best for: Business travelers or people who want premium car options
Tip: Try their "Gold Plus Rewards" to skip the line and earn free rentals

3. Avis/Budget

Why it stands out: Good rates, especially for longer rentals
Best for: Weekly rentals or trips with family
Tip: Budget is the more affordable version of Avis — both are managed by the same company

4. Turo

Okay, this one’s different.
Turo is like the Airbnb of car rentals. You rent directly from local car owners.
Best for: Unique vehicles, lower prices, and more flexibility
Tip: Read reviews carefully and communicate with the host before booking

5. Sixt Rent a Car

Why it’s cool: Stylish cars, modern locations, solid service
Best for: Travelers who want a luxury or European-style ride
Tip: Great for high-end cars without high-end prices

Local Car Rental Services (Hidden Gems)

If you want to support small businesses — or avoid big-brand prices — Atlanta has local options too.

• Atlanta Best Car Rental – Known for friendly service and lower deposits

• Xclusive Auto Rentals – Offers exotic car rentals (think Lamborghini or Rolls Royce)

• ATL Airport Car Rental Services – Smaller fleets but competitive pricing

These companies often offer free airport pick-up and more flexibility with deposits.

What to Know Before You Rent

Here are a few helpful things to keep in mind:

✅ Check the mileage policy

Some companies offer unlimited miles. Others charge after a certain limit. If you're road-tripping, this matters!

✅ Inspect the car

Take pictures before driving off. This protects you from getting charged for damage you didn’t cause.

✅ Understand the fuel policy

Many rentals require you to return the car with a full tank. Otherwise, you’ll get charged (a lot) for their fuel.

✅ Bring your documents

You'll need a valid driver’s license and a credit card. Some places accept debit, but not all.

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Atlanta

Let’s be real — car rentals can get expensive fast. Here’s how to keep costs down:

• Book early (especially during holidays or big events like Dragon Con or Falcons games)

• Use discount codes (AAA, AARP, credit cards, or company deals)

• Compare prices on sites like Kayak, Expedia, or Priceline

• Avoid airport pick-ups if possible — they often have higher fees

• Stick to one driver — adding extras can increase the cost

Is It Worth It?

If you’re wondering whether renting a car in Atlanta is worth it, here’s a quick breakdown:

Final Thoughts

Whether you're flying in for business, moving around the city, or planning a weekend escape, finding the best car rental service in Atlanta doesn't have to be stressful. You’ve got options — from trusted names like Enterprise and Hertz to newer platforms like Turo and local hidden gems.

Just keep your budget, travel plans, and convenience in mind. A little planning goes a long way.

Safe travels — and enjoy the ride!

FAQs

1. What’s the cheapest car rental company in Atlanta?
Budget and Turo usually offer some of the lowest rates, especially if you book in advance.

2. Can I rent a car without a credit card in Atlanta?
Some companies allow debit cards, but you might need to show proof of return flight or provide extra ID.

3. Is it cheaper to rent a car at the airport or in the city?
City locations are often cheaper because they don’t include airport concession fees.

4. What’s the age requirement to rent a car in Atlanta?
Most companies rent to drivers 21+, but expect a “young driver fee” if you’re under 25.

5. Do I need rental insurance?
You might already be covered through your personal car insurance or credit card. Always check before buying extra coverage.