Top Car Rental & Carsharing Companies in the USA

In a country built on highways, the car remains king. Whether you’re landing at LAX for a business trip, planning a cross-country road adventure, or simply need a car for a weekend errand in Chicago, renting or borrowing a vehicle is still very much part of how Americans move. In 2025, the car rental landscape in the U.S. is more diverse and tech-savvy than ever before, blending legacy rental giants with fast-evolving carsharing services. Understanding how these services differ—and where they excel—can help you make the right choice depending on your trip, location, and budget.

A country on the move: why Americans still rely on car rentals and carsharing

Despite the rise of rideshares and e-scooters in major cities, car rentals and carsharing continue to play an essential role in American mobility. The simple truth is: in most of the U.S., you still need a car to get around. Public transportation rarely covers the full spectrum of urban, suburban, and rural needs. And for many, owning a vehicle doesn’t make sense financially—especially in big cities where parking costs more than rent.

Car rentals offer flexibility for travelers who want to explore on their own terms. They’re particularly popular in states like California, Texas, and Florida, where long distances, outdoor attractions, and highway travel dominate the experience. At the same time, younger Americans and city dwellers have turned to carsharing as a smarter, greener, and more affordable way to access a vehicle without owning one.

Traditional rental giants: still going strong in a digital age

Legacy car rental companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis continue to dominate the market with their expansive fleets and airport presence. They’ve spent years building trust and convenience, and in 2025, they’ve become more tech-friendly than ever. Many now offer seamless app-based bookings, digital contracts, and even keyless entry options.

Enterprise remains the go-to for many travelers thanks to its sheer volume of locations and well-maintained vehicles. Hertz has leaned into variety, offering everything from fuel-efficient hybrids to luxury and electric vehicles, catering to a more eco-conscious demographic. Avis, with its loyalty programs and business traveler perks, holds a solid base of frequent users, while Budget appeals to those looking for value without sacrificing reliability. National continues to attract corporate clients with its fast-track pickup options and tailored business solutions.

While these companies have traditionally ruled the airport scene, they’ve also adapted to more urban, flexible use cases. In some cities, you can now pick up a rental through a mobile app and be on the road in minutes, no counter needed.

Carsharing in the USA: from urban convenience to nationwide networks

Carsharing, once a niche option for college students or city dwellers without garages, has become a nationwide phenomenon. It’s reshaped the way Americans think about cars—not as something you own, but something you access when needed. And the options today are broader than ever.

Zipcar, one of the pioneers in the space, continues to offer hourly and daily rentals with a fuel card and insurance included. It’s heavily embedded in cities like Boston, Seattle, and D.C., where parking is limited and short trips are common. Then there’s Turo, often called “the Airbnb of cars,” which allows people to rent out their personal vehicles. It’s ideal for those looking for something unique—maybe a Tesla for the weekend, or a vintage Mustang for a special event. Prices vary by owner, but the flexibility is unmatched.

Getaround has taken a slightly different approach, focusing on contactless rentals and instant access via its app. The model is perfect for spontaneous users who want to unlock a nearby car and go. Free2Move, a newer player, is growing its presence in select cities by offering a blend of shared cars and subscription options—all managed digitally.

These platforms thrive in places where parking space is scarce and public transit can’t do it all. They’re also appealing to younger Americans who want freedom without the hassle of ownership.

The tech twist: how apps are reshaping the car access experience

Technology has done more than make rentals convenient—it has transformed expectations entirely. The days of waiting in line at a rental counter are disappearing. Now, whether you’re using Hertz or Getaround, the entire process—booking, unlocking, driving, and even paying fines—can happen through your phone.

New services like Kyte and HyreCar are experimenting with delivery models, where a car is brought directly to your doorstep, ready to go. Others are focusing on subscription models that let you pay monthly and swap vehicles as needed. The app economy has allowed companies to personalize the car rental experience, making it feel less like a transaction and more like a service you actually want to use.

The new players, the new rules

While the giants still hold the majority of the market share, newer companies are changing the way people rent. Peer-to-peer carsharing is booming in resort towns, college cities, and even suburban neighborhoods. You can now pick up a minivan for your family trip from someone three blocks away, often at a better price than a traditional rental.

Platforms like Turo and Getaround are popular not just for the variety, but for the local feel. You’re borrowing a real person’s car—not a fleet vehicle—and that brings both charm and responsibility. Services like Free2Move, meanwhile, offer hybrid models that combine ride-hailing and self-driving rentals under one roof.

While Getmancar is still primarily operating in Europe, its arrival in global conversations about carsharing shows how international this trend has become. Companies across borders are eyeing the U.S. market for expansion, recognizing the American appetite for flexible, affordable vehicle access—especially in underserved mid-size cities.

What matters most to American drivers in 2025

More than ever, Americans are looking for convenience, value, and transparency. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a daily commute, the decision to rent or share a car now involves questions about environmental impact, digital access, insurance clarity, and even aesthetics.

For some, the choice is all about price. For others, it’s about the ability to grab a car for two hours and park it back without thinking. In either case, the line between “rental” and “carsharing” continues to blur. The companies that thrive in 2025 are the ones that make things simple, honest, and adaptable—no matter where the road leads.

What it costs to hit the road: comparing minimum daily rates in 2025

Note: Prices vary by city, car type, and time of year. These are starting rates for economy-class vehicles.

Whether you’re looking for total flexibility or a tried-and-true brand, the right option depends on where you’re going, how long you’ll be behind the wheel, and how much control you want over the experience. Carsharing may win on spontaneity, while traditional rentals still dominate for long-distance travel and consistency.