Rental Car Cost Per Day Calculator

Use the Per-Day Cost tab to estimate the daily driving cost (fuel plus a simplified non-fuel per-mile operating cost).

• All Automotive Calculators
• All Rent Calculators
• Gas Cost Per Month Calculator
• Cost Per Mile of Driving Calculator
• Annual Fuel Cost Calculator
• Cost Per Hour Calculator

Per-Day Driving Cost (Fuel + Operating Costs) Formula

The following equation is used to estimate the per-day driving cost (fuel plus a simplified non-fuel operating cost). This is separate from the rental company’s daily base rate and fees.

D = c\cdot m + \left(\frac{GC}{MPG}\cdot m\right)

Methodology reference:  U.S. Department of Energy – Alternative Fuels Data Center: Vehicle Cost Calculator Assumptions and Methodology
The DOE page discusses components of vehicle ownership and operating costs. This calculator uses a simplified approach and assumes a constant c value shown below.

• Where D is the estimated driving cost per day ($/day)
• m is the distance driven per day (miles)
• GC is the gas price ($ per U.S. gallon)
• MPG is the vehicle fuel efficiency (miles per U.S. gallon)
• c is the assumed non-fuel operating cost per mile (this calculator uses $0.20/mi as a rough estimate)

Typical rental car cost per day

Rental car prices vary widely by location, season, vehicle class, and the rental company’s pricing model. When comparing options, focus on the total (base rate + taxes/fees + add-ons + fuel + mileage rules) rather than the advertised daily rate alone. Depending on the trip, renting can sometimes be a cost-effective alternative to other travel options.

The table below shows illustrative daily base-rate examples by vehicle type (not a survey and not inclusive of taxes, fees, fuel, or optional add-ons).