Car Rentals in Pittsburgh, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Pittsburgh

Renting a car in and around Pittsburgh offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as PNC Park, which is ideal for family and outdoor experiences, or enjoy the thrills at Kennywood, a theme park perfect for entertainment seekers. Cultural enthusiasts can pay a visit to the Sri Venkateswara Temple for a unique experience.

A car also provides convenient access to popular destinations. You can navigate through Downtown Pittsburgh, home to sites like the Benedum Center and Point State Park, or venture to Bethel Park to explore the Carnegie Science Center and Andy Warhol Museum. If you're feeling adventurous, take a drive to Washington, where you can discover the historic David Bradford House and enjoy the serene Canonsburg Town Park.

This flexibility is particularly beneficial for families, outdoor lovers, and those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. With easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans, a rental car is a practical choice for making the most of your time in Pittsburgh.

Most popular car hires in Pittsburgh

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups. With ample space for both passengers and luggage, a Midsize SUV is perfect for those who wish to explore the Pittsburgh area comfortably and conveniently.
• Standard SUV: With room for 5 travellers and capacity for up to 2 medium suitcases, the Standard SUV is well-suited for couples, families, or groups looking for a versatile vehicle. This option provides a balance of space and manoeuvrability, allowing you to navigate Pittsburgh with ease while accommodating your travel essentials.
• Compact SUV: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, the Compact SUV accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly useful for those who desire a smaller vehicle that still offers sufficient space for luggage, making it a practical choice for exploring Pittsburgh at your leisure.

Top rated car suppliers in Pittsburgh

• Avis: With two rental locations in the Pittsburgh area, Avis is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. This supplier is well-known for its reliable service and extensive vehicle selection. The most booked cars with Avis are the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, making it an excellent option for those needing space and comfort while exploring the region.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car has one rental location situated in Pittsburgh, catering to those who prefer a straightforward car hire experience. This supplier is particularly favoured for its Midsize SUV and Compact SUV offerings, providing a mix of comfort and efficiency ideal for navigating both urban and rural landscapes. Alamo is committed to customer satisfaction, ensuring a pleasant hiring process.
• Budget: Budget operates two rental locations in and around Pittsburgh, making it convenient for visitors to access their services. Known for offering competitive rates, Budget is a great choice for travellers looking for value. The most popular vehicles from Budget include the Midsize SUV and Compact, perfect for those wanting to explore the area without breaking the bank.

Where to stay in Pittsburgh

• Downtown Pittsburgh: A vibrant neighbourhood, Downtown Pittsburgh is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor experiences. Visitors can enjoy the arts at the Benedum Center, take in scenic views at Point State Park, and watch a game at PNC Park, all within close proximity. The area also boasts numerous dining options, from casual eateries to wineries, making it an excellent base for exploration.
• Washington: This charming city offers a romantic and family-oriented experience, with attractions such as the historic David Bradford House and the F. Julius LeMoyne House. Washington features shopping centres and recreational areas, perfect for leisurely afternoons. The Canonsburg Town Park provides an urban park setting suitable for outdoor activities, making it an inviting option for visitors seeking a city-themed getaway.
• Cranberry Township: Renowned for its family and business-friendly environment, Cranberry Township offers a mix of modern amenities and local charm. Key highlights include Ehrman Farms Playground for family fun, and both Glen Eden Park and North Boundary Park, which are perfect for outdoor activities. With shopping centres and dining options, including wineries and restaurants, this area caters well to various interests.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Pittsburgh

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for sunny days, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, making it wise to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to benefit from lower rates and enhanced availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in the event of unforeseen circumstances during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Pittsburgh

The best time to rent a car in and around Pittsburgh is September, when prices are slightly low and demand remains average. In May, you may also find slightly low prices and moderately low demand, making it a good shoulder month. However, from June through August, prices rise to slightly high levels with increased demand, peaking in July. This busy period can make securing a rental car more challenging and expensive.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	28.6°F (-1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	31.3°F (-0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
March	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
April	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	61.7°F (16.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
June	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
December	35.2°F (1.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average