Travelers seeking rental cars over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays faced sharply higher prices, according to a recent survey from CheapCarRental.net. The study found that rates at many airport locations jumped dramatically between Dec. 23 and Dec. 27, in some cases doubling or tripling compared with typical winter prices.
In the New York area, the most affordable rental available for pickup at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) averaged $179 per day during the holiday period, representing a 223 percent increase over the city’s average winter rental rate. Of the 40 destinations the survey examined, New York City showed the highest baseline holiday starting rate for rental cars.
Seattle and New Orleans ranked as the second- and third-most expensive markets. At Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) the most affordable rentals started around $118 per day, while at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) the lowest daily rates were approximately $109. Although New York had the highest absolute starting price, Seattle recorded the largest percentage spike relative to its normal winter rates—more than a 300 percent increase for the Christmas period.
By contrast, the survey identified several markets where holiday rates remained comparatively low. Major airports in Louisville, Orlando and San Antonio each offered the most affordable rental-car options starting near $40 per day during the same timeframe.
The findings highlight how demand surges during major holidays can sharply affect airport rental-car pricing, making advance reservations and rate comparisons important for travelers planning trips over peak holiday dates.