- US car rental costs rose 9.1pc year-over-year as of September 2026.
- Prices rose 0.1pc month-over-month from August to September.
- Rental car prices are up 27.5pc compared to September 2016.
- Airline fares are up 22.4pc and lodging up 4.4pc over the same period.
- Overall CPI rose 3.7pc year-over-year.
Car and truck rental prices in the United States rose 9.1pc year-over-year as of September 2026 according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The increase highlights a broader squeeze on travel budgets. Demand for autumn travel remains firm even as prices for flights and lodging in popular destinations have moved higher than summer levels.
Rental car prices rose 0.1pc month-over-month from August to September 2026. Prices are up 27.5pc compared to September 2016. Airline fares are up 22.4pc and lodging is up 4.4pc over the same annual period. The overall Consumer Price Index rose 3.7pc year-over-year.
The recent surge in US car rental costs coincides with rising fuel prices forcing rental companies to adjust pricing models. Analysts note that the travel industry is sustaining higher baselines because market demand remains resilient. Wholesale used vehicle prices are sliding slightly, which may soften retail rental rates if rental companies begin offloading over-aged fleets.
