
Santa Barbara Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals
Compare rent a car rates in Santa Barbara from popular car rental companies
- Change your mindPenalty-free cancellation on many/select car hire
- Treat yourselfMembers save 10% or more on over 1 million car hire
- Shop smartCompare car suppliers to unlock big savings
Explore Santa Barbara with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals
* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.
Midsize
Toyota Corolla
- 5 people
- Unlimited mileage

NZ$97
total
found 2 days ago
Standard Elite Special
Ford Mustang Mach-E
- 5 people
- Unlimited mileage

NZ$99
total
found 2 days ago
Standard
Volkswagen Jetta
- 5 people
- Unlimited mileage

NZ$99
total
found 2 days ago
Full Size
Toyota Camry
- 5 people
- Unlimited mileage

NZ$99
total
found 2 days ago
Economy Special
Managers Special
- 4 people
- Unlimited mileage

NZ$108
total
found 2 days ago
Midsize Elite
Polestar 2
- 5 people
- Unlimited mileage

NZ$115
total
found 22 hours ago
Full Size Elite Pickup Regular Cab
Ram 2500 Big Horn
- 6 people
- Unlimited mileage

NZ$126
total
found 22 hours ago
Mini Van
Chrysler Pacifica
- 7 people
- Unlimited mileage

NZ$129
total
found 22 hours ago
Luxury
Genesis G70
- 5 people
- Unlimited mileage

NZ$161
total
found 22 hours ago
Luxury Elite
Genesis G80E
- 5 people
- Unlimited mileage

NZ$184
total
found 22 hours ago
Lowest prices found within the past 2 days. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a rental car per day in Santa Barbara?
The most affordable daily rate in Santa Barbara was NZ$97 based on prices within the last seven days. Take a look at our terrific range of options, from small and affordable vehicles to cruise-in-style rides.
Can I rent a car from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)?
Arrive at Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) and then head for Dollar or Enterprise, both a short distance away. You'll be exploring Santa Barbara in your own set of wheels in no time at all.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Barbara car reservation?
We understand that plans change at the last moment. That's why a large number of prepaid rentals allow for a complete refund if you cancel six hours prior to pickup. Your rental policy should contain all the details you need. If you can't find the answer there, our Customer Service Portal is always accessible.
What types of cars can I rent in Santa Barbara?
Whatever meets your needs! Go for an intermediate or full-size if you're travelling with the family, or level up to a premium for sleek sophistication. Or, choose an economy vehicle — the most booked rental in Santa Barbara. Affordable and with terrific mileage, they're a good match for solo travellers, couples or anyone else who doesn't need a great deal of room. They're particularly suited to exploring cities. Zipping into narrow parking spots will be a cinch!
Where can I go on a road trip from Santa Barbara?
There are lots of things to see and do in Santa Barbara, but venture further afield and you'll find even more magic. Pick up a set of wheels and you can cruise around the greater area at your own speed. Add these fantastic places to your itinerary:
- Los Angeles is approximately 137 kilometres from Santa Barbara. Notable sights like Universal Studios Hollywood deserve to be high on your must-see list here.
- Your next stop? Santa Ana, which is around 193 kilometres away. Santa Ana Zoo is one local highlight you won't want to miss.
- Balboa Park is around 306 kilometres from Santa Barbara and is one of the region's most spectacular nature spots. Stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh air.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Barbara with Expedia?
Getting the best deal on your Santa Barbara rental car is easy with Expedia. Choose your preferred ride, add in a few more details and compare the offers from top suppliers. Why not add flights and hotels to your booking? You'll get access to even more savings when you create a holiday package.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Santa Barbara?
Rental car rules in Santa Barbara require drivers to be at least 21. Are you a young driver? A few surcharges and restrictions could apply. Rental companies impose what's known as a young renter surcharge, which is an additional fee to the cost of the rental car. Restrictions usually apply to the classes of cars young motorists can rent as well. Age limits may differ between companies, so check before you book.
What do you need to rent a car in Santa Barbara?
Generally, you'll need a valid driver's licence and credit card in your name when picking up your car. Proof of coverage may also be needed if you'd like to opt out of the company's insurance plan. Rules may differ between rental providers, so it's wise to check the terms and conditions.
What is the cheapest car rental in Santa Barbara?
According to prices found within the past seven days, the lowest daily rate for a car rental in Santa Barbara was NZ$97. The next lowest was NZ$99 per day. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Santa Barbara?
You can, and the terrific news is suppliers often offer lower rates the longer you rent. Scroll through our long-term car rental deals in Santa Barbara and drive away with a real bargain.
Where can I find a Santa Barbara car rental if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to look into the age policy of the Santa Barbara rental suppliers you're interested in. If you're under 25 years old, some will charge additional fees. It's handy to know about this before collecting the vehicle so you can tailor your budget accordingly. Each rental car company has its own terms and conditions for young drivers, so it pays to do your research.
Explore a world of travel with Expedia
- Historic Downtown Santa Barbara Hotels
- Hotels near Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
- Hotels near Goleta Beach
- Hotels near Seven Falls
- West Beach Hotels
- Santa Barbara Beach Hotels
- Oak Park Hotels
- Montecito Hotels
- The Funk Zone Hotels
- Summerland Hotels
- Eastside Hotels
- Hotels near Santa Barbara Municipal
- Goleta Hotels
- Downtown Santa Barbara Hotels
- East Beach Hotels
- Hope Ranch Hotels
- Santa Barbara Hotels
- Upper Riviera Hotels
- Santa Barbara County Hotels
- Hotels near Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club
- Pet Friendly Hotels in Goleta
- Casino Hotels in Montecito
- Beach Hotels in Montecito
- Boutique Hotels in Montecito
- Luxury Hotels in Montecito
- Romantic Hotels in Montecito
- Family Hotels in Montecito
- Spa Hotels in Montecito
- Historic Hotels in Montecito
- Pet Friendly Hotels in Santa Barbara Beach
- Luxury Hotels in Santa Barbara Beach
- Pet Friendly Hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara
- Luxury Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Boutique Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Business Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Family Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Beach Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Cheap Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Historic Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Hotels with Parking in Santa Barbara
- Casino Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Winery Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Resort in Summerland
- Town Houses in Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail
- B&B in Santa Barbara
- Holiday Homes in Santa Barbara
- Villas in Santa Barbara
- Apartments in Santa Barbara
- Cottages in Santa Barbara
- Motels in Santa Barbara
- Condo Rentals in Santa Barbara
- Marriott Hotels & Resorts in Santa Barbara
- Saba Group Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Motel 6 Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Q - Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Independent Hotels in Santa Barbara
- La Quinta Inn & Suites Hotels in Santa Barbara
- Flights from Guatemala City (GUA) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
- Flights from Lahore (LHE) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
- Flights from Orlando (MCO) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
- Flights from Palm Springs (PSP) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
- Flights from Honolulu (HNL) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
- Flights from Seattle (SEA) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
- Flights from Las Vegas (LAS) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
- Flights from Portland (PDX) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
- Flights from Boise (BOI) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
- Flights to Santa Barbara
- Flights from Santa Barbara
- Flights from Santa Barbara Municipal
- Visit Santa Barbara
- Visit Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail
- Visit Summerland
- Visit Hope Ranch
- Visit Santa Barbara Beach
- Visit East Beach
- Visit Montecito
- Santa Barbara Holidays
- Lookout Park
- Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church
- Moreton Bay Fig Tree
- Montecito Holidays
- Stearns Wharf
- Lotusland
- Montecito Village Shopping Center
- Santa Barbara County Courthouse
