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Car rentals in Costa Mesa, California

Are you looking for cheap car rental deals in Costa Mesa, California? Search right here!

Costa Mesa, CA
Mar 26 — Apr 2
Costa Mesa, CA
Tue 3/26
Noon
Tue 4/2
Noon

Deals from rental companies in 70,000+ locations.

Rental cars insight and trends in Costa Mesa

Useful insights to help you book the perfect rental car in Costa Mesa

What is the cheapest rental car agency in Costa Mesa?

The cheapest rental cars in Costa Mesa are generally found through Ace. When booking with Ace, you may be able to find rental car prices for as low as $6/day. The average price to rent a car in Costa Mesa is $77/day.

What car do most people rent in Costa Mesa?

Most momondo users will rent the Hyundai Elantra in Costa Mesa, though renting the Kia Niro is a popular second choice according to our data. If you’re interested in renting the Hyundai Elantra, prices are $53 per day on average. Some users have found Hyundai Elantra rental deals in Costa Mesa for as low as $23 per day. Kia Niro rentals in Costa Mesa are $69 per day on average, with some of the cheapest deals at $26 per day.

Best deals found for Costa Mesa, California car rentals

Find great deals below on a variety of popular rental car types in Costa Mesa, California
Economy$23/day
Compact$19/day
Intermediate$26/day
Standard$28/day
Full-size$30/day
Minivan$33/day
Passenger van$36/day
Luxury$21/day
Pickup truck$36/day
Intermediate SUV$30/day
Standard SUV$32/day
Best rates found by momondo users in the past 48 hours.

Important information about Costa Mesa car rentals

How to get from John Wayne Airport (SNA) to the rental car center

Consider landing at Costa Mesa through John Wayne Airport (SNA) which is the closest airport to the city center. To move around the city comfortably you should consider using the city’s rental cars located within this airport. This will save you more energy from looking for taxis and buses once at the airport. There are several on-site car rentals agencies such as Dollar, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Alamo, Hertz, Thrifty, and National where you can pick any type of car of your preference. These rental cars counter is located at the Arrival lower level in between Terminal A and B across the John Wayne statue. You need to reserve your car at the counter before going to pick it up at Level O of parking lot structures A2 and B2 which opens at 5:30 am and closes at 11:30 pm.  Alternatively, you can consider using off-site rental cars that are located at the Ground Transportation Center upon your arrival to your final destination.

What documentation do I need to rent a car at Costa Mesa?

If you want to rent a car in Costa Mesa you should have a government-issued valid driving license for the entire period of renting the car. Costa Mesa does not allow digital driving licenses, thus foreigners in the city are requested to visit the appropriate department of the motor vehicle in states and provinces they intend to move around for the certainty of compliance with their various licensing laws.  Drivers with non-English driving licenses are reminded of having an additional International Driver’s Permit which will help with translation purposes. If the International driving license is not in your home country you can present a handwritten translation which should be accompanied by the original driving license. You should also have a debit card or a credit card with your full name which will help the payment process while reserving your car rental. If you want to rent a luxury vehicle you should present insurance verification documents.

What driving laws should I keep an eye out for in Costa Mesa?

One of the most important driving laws in Costa Mesa to be aware of is age restrictions. For instance, Costa Mesa's car rental agencies only permit customers who are at least 25 years old to rent the vehicle of their choice. Ages 21 to 24 can only rent a few types of vehicles and are subject to a $25 underage fee. Another issue to keep in mind while taking your youngster along in a rental car in Costa Mesa is child seat regulations. These regulations mandate that any child under the age of 8 and under the height of 4'9" always ride in a suitable child restraint device, such as a booster seat, child car seat, or infant-only seat. Additionally, these children should maintain the back seats which is a safe place to be while moving around Costa Mesa. Those moving in cars that do not have back seats are allowed to keep a child in the front seat who weighs at least 40 lbs and is 5'7'' tall.

Can I drive to other states, regions, or countries with a rental car from Costa Mesa?

The holding car rental companies determines whether you can drive their car rental to other parts of the city. For instance, in Costa Mesa, there are three holding car rental companies such as Hertz Global Holdings, Enterprise Holdings, and Avis Budget Group that do not restrict their customers from exploring outside the city with their car rentals. However, while reserving your car, you are supposed to book with unlimited mileage which does not limit the distance you should cover with your rental car and will not incur incremental fees. Some holding car companies may require you to book a one-way rental if you want to get out of the city for a vacation. This is because you’ll have to drop off their car far from where you picked it up which will require a one-time charge. If you need to drive out of the city to other countries, states, and regions you should always consult with your preferred rental agency before reserving your car. 


Costa Mesa, California car rental deals found on momondo

Find the rental car in Costa Mesa that's right for you

Small cars

$33 - $57

All Car Types

$55 - $93

The average price of a small car rental in Costa Mesa, the United States is $47. The cheapest time to rent a small car in Costa Mesa, the United States is in January. The price is 32% lower than the rest of the year at just $33 per day. A small car rental is typically 33% less expensive than the average rental car in Costa Mesa. The average price of a vehicle rental in Costa Mesa can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car. Below are the best prices for Costa Mesa small car rentals found on momondo in the past week.

The average price of a medium car rental in Costa Mesa, the United States is $58. The cheapest time to rent a medium car in Costa Mesa, the United States is in May. The price is 23% lower than the rest of the year at just $45 per day. A medium car rental is typically 19% less expensive than the average rental car in Costa Mesa. The average price of a vehicle rental in Costa Mesa can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car. Below are the best prices for Costa Mesa medium car rentals found on momondo in the past week.

The average price of a large car rental in Costa Mesa, the United States is $96. The cheapest time to rent a large car in Costa Mesa, the United States is in May. The price is 26% lower than the rest of the year at just $72 per day. A large car rental is typically 27% more expensive than the average rental car in Costa Mesa. The average price of a vehicle rental in Costa Mesa can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car. Below are the best prices for Costa Mesa large car rentals found on momondo in the past week.

The average price of a SUV rental in Costa Mesa, the United States is $65. The cheapest time to rent a SUV in Costa Mesa, the United States is in January. The price is 31% lower than the rest of the year at just $46 per day. A SUV rental is typically 8% less expensive than the average rental car in Costa Mesa. The average price of a vehicle rental in Costa Mesa can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car. Below are the best prices for Costa Mesa SUV rentals found on momondo in the past week.

The average price of a van rental in Costa Mesa, the United States is $128. The cheapest time to rent a van in Costa Mesa, the United States is in August. The price is 25% lower than the rest of the year at just $97 per day. A van rental is typically 45% more expensive than the average rental car in Costa Mesa. The average price of a vehicle rental in Costa Mesa can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car. Below are the best prices for Costa Mesa van rentals found on momondo in the past week.

The average price of a luxury car rental in Costa Mesa, the United States is $119. The cheapest time to rent a luxury car in Costa Mesa, the United States is in April. The price is 70% lower than the rest of the year at just $37 per day. A luxury car rental is typically 41% more expensive than the average rental car in Costa Mesa. The average price of a vehicle rental in Costa Mesa can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car. Below are the best prices for Costa Mesa luxury car rentals found on momondo in the past week.

The average price of a convertible rental in Costa Mesa, the United States is $78. The cheapest time to rent a convertible in Costa Mesa, the United States is in August. The price is 35% lower than the rest of the year at just $52 per day. A convertible rental is typically 11% more expensive than the average rental car in Costa Mesa. The average price of a vehicle rental in Costa Mesa can vary based on a number of factors including supply, popularity of the vehicle, and how far out you book your rental car.

Mini Hatch
or similar Compact
Up to 4 passengers

$19/day

2 Apr - 4 Apr
Mini Hatch
Toyota Yaris
or similar Economy
Up to 2 passengers

$23/day

26 Mar - 2 Apr
Toyota Yaris
Hyundai Venue
or similar Compact
Up to 4 passengers

$35/day

23 Mar - 23 May
Hyundai Venue

Costa Mesa car rental directory

All major car rental suppliers in Costa Mesa, California

Fox

5.7
Fair
209 reviews1 location
Overview

Cleanliness

6.0

Comfort

6.2

Overall

5.6

Pick-up/drop-off

5.6

Value

6.1

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8.9
Very good
5 reviews2 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

8.7

Comfort

9.2

Overall

9.0

Pick-up/drop-off

9.5

Value

8.7

Budget

7.7
Good
9 reviews1 location
Overview

Cleanliness

7.2

Comfort

7.2

Overall

7.7

Pick-up/drop-off

7.5

Value

6.2

Avis

6.8
Okay
3 reviews1 location
Overview

Cleanliness

6.8

Comfort

6.8

Overall

6.8

Pick-up/drop-off

6.8

Value

6.8

Europcar

1 location
Overview

Cleanliness

6.5

Comfort

7.5

Overall

6.0

Pick-up/drop-off

6.5

Value

6.5

Hertz

5.4
Fair
7 reviews3 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

5.7

Comfort

5.5

Overall

5.3

Pick-up/drop-off

4.8

Value

5.3

Payless

5.2
Fair
11 reviews1 location

Airport Van

2 locations

Quick facts about car rentals in Costa Mesa

Get the overview on great rental deals, popular car rental companies, and best car types for your visit in Costa Mesa

Most Popular Agency

Hertz

Popular Car Types

SUV, Intermediate, Economy

Cheapest Rental Car

$28

Most Popular Model

Class Special Car
The most popular Costa Mesa car rental agency found on momondo this month is Hertz. Other top choices for car rental companies are Budget and Enterprise Rent-A-Car
The following car types were offered at rental car companies in Costa Mesa in the past 72 hours: SUV, Intermediate, Economy.
The lowest price for a rental car in Costa Mesa is $28/day. For this area, you can expect average prices starting from $49/day.
The most popular car model to rent in Costa Mesa in the past 7 days is the Class Special Car. Our users also prefer the Toyota Yaris as an alternative.

Find popular attractions close to your rental car pick-up

Visit these must-see attractions near popular rental car locations in Costa Mesa

Nearby attractions:

Fairview Park33.1 mi
South Coast Repertory34.7 mi
Segerstrom Center for the Arts34.8 mi

Nearby attractions:

South Coast Repertory1.4 mi
Segerstrom Center for the Arts1.4 mi
Fairview Park4.2 mi

Nearby attractions:

Segerstrom Center for the Arts29.9 mi
South Coast Repertory30.0 mi
Fairview Park33.4 mi

Rent a car near one of these popular hotels in Costa Mesa

Below are the most popular hotels in Costa Mesa
Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa/Newport Beach

Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa/Newport Beach

325 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

2.8 mi from city center

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Costa Mesa / Newport Beach

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Costa Mesa / Newport Beach

1515 South Coast Drive, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

3.5 mi from city center

Ramada by Wyndham Costa Mesa/Newport Beach

Ramada by Wyndham Costa Mesa/Newport Beach

1680 Superior Ave I-405, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

0.5 mi from city center

Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County

Crowne Plaza Costa Mesa Orange County

3131 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

3.5 mi from city center

Travelodge by Wyndham Orange County Airport/ Costa Mesa

Travelodge by Wyndham Orange County Airport/ Costa Mesa

1400 Bristol Street, Suite A, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

2.7 mi from city center

The Westin South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa

The Westin South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa

686 Anton Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

3.9 mi from city center

Costa Mesa Inn

Costa Mesa Inn

2645 Harbor Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

1.9 mi from city center

Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

3350 Avenue of The Arts, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

4.1 mi from city center

Best Western Plus Newport Mesa Inn

Best Western Plus Newport Mesa Inn

2642 Newport Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

2.0 mi from city center

Travelodge by Wyndham Costa Mesa Newport Beach Hacienda

Travelodge by Wyndham Costa Mesa Newport Beach Hacienda

1951 Newport Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

0.3 mi from city center

Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa

Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa

3050 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

3.5 mi from city center

Vagabond Inn Costa Mesa

Vagabond Inn Costa Mesa

3205 Harbor Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

3.2 mi from city center

Costa Mesa Marriott

Costa Mesa Marriott

500 Anton Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

4.1 mi from city center

Oc Hotel

Oc Hotel

2430 Newport Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

1.5 mi from city center

Residence Inn by Marriott Costa Mesa Newport Beach

Residence Inn by Marriott Costa Mesa Newport Beach

881 Baker Street, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

3.0 mi from city center

Holiday Inn Express Costa Mesa, An IHG Hotel

Holiday Inn Express Costa Mesa, An IHG Hotel

2070 Newport Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

0.6 mi from city center

Star Inn Motel

Star Inn Motel

2656 Newport Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

2.1 mi from city center

Cozy Inn

Cozy Inn

325 West Bay Street, Costa Mesa, CA, United States

0.6 mi from city center


Driving with a rental car in Costa Mesa - FAQs

Learn everything there is to know about renting a car in Costa Mesa so you can be properly prepared for your next trip

How much will it cost to rent a car in Costa Mesa, California in April?

For a weekend in April, the best deals in Costa Mesa start from around $38 up to around $52. For a one-week car rental, Costa Mesa prices in April average $58 with the best deals starting at $36.

Is there a fee to cancel my Costa Mesa, California car rental?

The majority of car rental agencies in Costa Mesa offer free cancellation. momondo will always tell you whether or not rental car centers such as Fox, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and Budget have a cancellation fee for travelers who have last-minute itinerary changes.

What is the best type of car to rent in Costa Mesa during April?

When temperatures average 62.6 °F and precipitation is 0.2″, your best car rental option for the month of April is a Convertible. Renting a Convertible in Costa Mesa is an exciting way to see the area without having to worry about the weather being uncooperative. However, it is always a good idea to check the forecast before you travel and make any adjustments to your car rental plans. Renting a Convertible in Costa Mesa will cost you $53/day on average.

What is the speed limit in Costa Mesa, California?

Costa Mesa’s speed limit is 25 mph when you are driving in the city. This speed limit might also apply to surrounding towns and neighborhoods. The suburban speed limit in Costa Mesa is 75 mph and the speed limit for highways is 75 mph. However, be sure to look for posted signage as these speeds may vary.

What car rental company has the Kia Niro in Costa Mesa?

What is the weather like in Costa Mesa, CA in March?

In March, Costa Mesa usually gets 2.6″ of precipitation and has an average temperature of 57.2 °F. This information can be very helpful when looking at rental cars in Costa Mesa as it can help you make the best decision.

Is the weather in Costa Mesa similar to the rest of California?

If you’re looking for a Costa Mesa rental car for a road trip to the surrounding areas during the month of March it’s important to know that the rest of California typically has a temperature of 57.2 °F and will usually expect 2.2″ of precipitation.

When did momondo last update prices for cars in Costa Mesa?

Prices for cars in Costa Mesa are updated daily.

How many operators does momondo search for cars in Costa Mesa?

How old do you have to be to hire a car in Costa Mesa?

Among different countries, including Costa Mesa, the minimum age for drivers varies. In numerous EU countries, drivers must be 18 years old. To hire a car overseas, you'll generally need to be at least 21, and if you're under 25, a young driver surcharge may be imposed. It's recommended that you review the policy of the rental company you're considering before booking.

What documentation or ID do you need to rent a car in Costa Mesa?

All drivers must have a valid full driving license when renting a car in Costa Mesa. If the license is written in a different language from the country of rental, an International Driving Permit may be required to avoid the risk of potential fines. If you're renting a car overseas, you may also need to provide proof of return travel and accommodation information during your stay. It is always advisable to check with the individual rental company you're booking with.


Why use momondo?

Why should I use momondo to book a car rental in Costa Mesa?

You should use momondo to book a car rental in Costa Mesa because it could save you time and money. momondo fetches and allows you to compare car rental prices and policies from thousands of car rental websites.

How does momondo help me find the best car rental deal in Costa Mesa?

momondo enables you to find the best car rental deal in Costa Mesa by providing useful filters to narrow your search. Filters include, but are not limited to: price, body type, rental company and specific policies that you may want.

Does momondo show car rental deals in Costa Mesa with free cancellation?

Yes you can filter specifically for car rental companies in Costa Mesa offering free cancellation on momondo.

Can I rent a car with a fair fuel policy in Costa Mesa on momondo?

Yes, fair fuel policies are a specific filter offered on momondo for all car rental locations including Costa Mesa.

Can I find a car rental in Costa Mesa which offers enhanced cleaning on momondo?

Enhanced cleaning services can be found on all car rental locations on momondo including Costa Mesa.

Can I search for rental cars in Costa Mesa with unlimited mileage on momondo?

Unlimited mileage is indeed an option momondo offers on rental cars in Costa Mesa.


An easier way to manage your Costa Mesa trip

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Popular rental car types in Costa Mesa


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