Cheapest Car Rentals for Students in Boston
Jack Son
Boston is one of America’s top college cities, home to world-class universities like Harvard, MIT, Boston University, and Northeastern. Students come from all over the world to study here—and while the “T” (Boston’s subway) is convenient, it doesn’t always reach everywhere. Whether it’s a weekend trip to Cape Cod, moving between apartments, or commuting to an internship, having a car can make life easier. But let’s be honest: renting a car as a student can be expensive. Thankfully, many rental companies in Boston offer special student discounts, flexible plans, and affordable short-term options. This guide will help you find the cheapest car rentals for students in Boston along with insider tips on how to save even more.
Why Students in Boston Look for Cheap Car RentalsBoston is a compact but fast-paced city, and students often find that having access to a car gives them freedom that public transport can’t match. Here’s why student car rentals are so popular:
Weekend adventures: Explore New England’s scenic spots like Cape Cod, the White Mountains, or Rhode Island’s beaches.
Moving or dorm swaps: Renting a car—or small van—is much cheaper than hiring movers.
Internships and part-time jobs: Some workplaces are beyond the MBTA routes.
Airport trips and holidays: Easier than juggling luggage on the T.
With so many colleges spread across the city, companies are competing to offer the best deals on car rentals specifically for students.
Top Rental Companies Offering Student Discounts in BostonSeveral national and local rental companies cater to student drivers, offering affordable daily rates, discounted memberships, and convenient pickup locations near major campuses.
a. ZipcarZipcar is one of the most popular options for Boston students. It’s a car-sharing service that lets you rent by the hour or day, with cars parked right near campus.
Student Perks: Discounted memberships through many Boston universities.
Average Cost: Starting at around $10/hour or $80/day, including gas and insurance.
Age Requirement: 18+ with a valid driver’s license.
Best For: Short errands or day trips.
Enterprise is well-known for its College Car Rental Program, which gives students exclusive discounts.
Student Perks: 5–10% off, flexible returns, and waived underage fees through campus partnerships.
Average Cost: Economy cars from $35–$45/day.
Best For: Weekend rentals or longer trips.
Hertz offers competitive rates for students through its university deals.
Student Perks: Up to 10% off base rates.
Average Cost: Compact cars from $40/day; extra savings on weekends.
Age Requirement: 20+ for most locations.
Best For: Affordable short-term rentals with brand-name reliability.
These two rental companies frequently run student-focused promotions around move-in and graduation seasons.
Average Cost: Economy cars for $30–$40/day.
Student Perks: Promo codes, free mileage, and flexible weekend packages.
Best For: Budget-conscious students who plan ahead and book early.
Turo is like Airbnb for cars, connecting students directly with local car owners.
Average Cost: Starting around $25/day—often cheaper than traditional companies.
Perks: Flexible pickup/drop-off, wide variety of vehicles.
Best For: Students 21+ who want convenience and affordability.
Getting the lowest rental rate takes a bit of strategy. Here’s how to cut costs and find the best deal every time.
a. Book EarlyPrices rise quickly during peak seasons like move-in week or holidays. Reserving early guarantees a lower rate.
b. Compare PricesUse comparison sites like Kayak, Expedia, or Skyscanner to find the cheapest base rate. Then, check the rental company’s own website for additional student discounts.
c. Pick Economy CarsSmaller cars are cheaper to rent and fuel-efficient—ideal for Boston’s tight streets and high gas prices.
d. Check Campus PartnershipsUniversities like Harvard, Boston University, and Northeastern often have partnerships with Zipcar or Enterprise, offering automatic discounts and waived age fees.
e. Avoid Airport LocationsRenting from Logan International Airport includes extra surcharges and taxes. Choose city locations for cheaper daily rates.
f. Use Student Discount SitesWebsites like UNiDAYS, Student Beans, and ID.me often feature exclusive coupon codes for car rentals.
g. Decline Extra Insurance (If Covered)Many students already have rental car coverage through their personal car insurance or a credit card. Declining the company’s insurance can save you $10–$25 per day.
Age Rules and Requirements for Student RentalsMost rental companies require drivers to be at least 21, but there are exceptions.
Zipcar: Renters can be as young as 18.
Enterprise & Hertz: Usually 21+, but some campus partnerships allow 18–20-year-olds to rent without extra fees.
Turo: Age requirements depend on the host and car category, usually 21–25.
Always bring your driver’s license, student ID, and payment card in your name. If you’re an international student, you may need your passport and International Driving Permit (IDP) as well.
Best Boston Neighborhoods for Cheap Student Car RentalsBoston has several convenient rental hubs close to major campuses.
Allston & Brighton: Affordable options near Boston College and BU.
Fenway–Kenmore: Close to Northeastern and Berklee, with many Zipcar spots.
Cambridge: Ideal for Harvard and MIT students—several Enterprise and Zipcar stations nearby.
Downtown Boston: Great selection but slightly higher prices.
Somerville: Budget-friendly and less crowded, perfect for students at Tufts.
Choosing a rental location near your campus or housing can save you time and transportation costs.
Alternatives to Traditional Car RentalsIf you don’t need a car often, you might find more value in short-term mobility options:
Zipcar: Hourly or daily rentals—perfect for errands and quick trips.
Getaround: App-based car-sharing service; rent nearby cars instantly.
Bluebikes: Boston’s public bike-sharing system for local commutes.
Uber and Lyft: Ideal for one-way rides or late-night travel.
These alternatives give you flexibility and save money on parking, gas, and insurance.
Tips for First-Time Student RentersBefore hitting the road, keep these simple tips in mind to avoid extra fees:
Inspect the vehicle for any existing scratches or damage—take photos before driving away.
Return the car on time—late returns often trigger hourly charges.
Refuel before drop-off if your plan doesn’t include gas.
Avoid city-center parking tickets—Boston is strict about street parking.
Use GPS apps like Waze or Google Maps to navigate traffic and toll roads.
Being responsible helps you maintain a clean rental history and avoid costly mistakes.
ConclusionFinding the cheapest car rentals for students in Boston isn’t just possible—it’s easy when you know where to look. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a campus move, or a simple grocery run, Boston’s car rental market has plenty of affordable, student-friendly options. From Zipcar’s hourly rentals to Enterprise’s student programs and Turo’s peer-to-peer deals, students can enjoy flexible and budget-conscious transportation across the city. The key is to compare prices, book early, and use your student ID to unlock extra savings. With the right planning, you can hit the road, explore New England, and stay well within your budget.
