Midway Airport Car Rental

All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides, since 1999.

Renting a car at Chicago Midway International Airport is a convenient option for travelers who want maximum flexibility while visiting Chicago and the surrounding region. With several major rental companies operating at the airport and easy highway access, passengers can quickly pick up a vehicle and begin exploring the city, nearby suburbs, or destinations across the Midwest.

Booking your car online in advance usually results in lower prices and shorter waiting times at the airport counter.

Location of the Rental Car Facility

All rental companies at Midway operate from a consolidated Rental Car Facility, located at:

5150 W. 55th Street, Chicago.

Car Rental1 Midway Airport — Free shuttle bus to the car rental facilities

Passengers arriving at the terminal can reach the facility by taking a free shuttle bus that runs regularly between the terminal and the rental center. The facility includes a multi-story garage where vehicles are stored, cleaned, and prepared for customers.

Follow signs for “Rental Car Shuttle” outside the baggage claim area. The ride usually takes 5–10 minutes.

Average Rental Prices

Prices vary depending on the season, vehicle type, and booking time. Typical approximate daily prices include:

Economy or compact car: $25 – $60 per day
Mid-size sedan: $50 – $80 per day
SUV or large vehicle: $70 – $120 per day
Minivan or family vehicle: $80 – $130 per day

Prices may increase during holidays or large events in Chicago.

Weekend rentals are often cheaper than weekday business travel periods.

Popular Destinations by Rental Car

Renting a car is particularly useful for exploring areas outside central Chicago.

Popular driving destinations include:

Indiana Dunes National Park – beaches and hiking trails along Lake Michigan
Brookfield Zoo – one of the largest zoos in the United States
Garfield Park Conservatory – famous indoor gardens
Wisconsin lakes and scenic routes north of Chicago

Downtown Chicago traffic and parking can be difficult. If you mainly plan to visit central attractions, public transport may be more convenient.

Rental Car Insurance Explained

Car rental companies in the United States offer several optional insurance products.

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) / Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)

This waiver covers damage or theft of the rental vehicle. Typical cost:

$10 – $30 per day depending on the provider.

Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS)

Provides additional coverage for damage or injury caused to other people or property.

Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)

Covers medical costs for the driver and passengers after an accident.

Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)

Protects personal belongings inside the vehicle.

Full insurance packages offered by rental companies can cost $30–$60 per day, sometimes doubling the rental price.

Many credit cards and travel insurance policies already include rental car coverage, so it is worth checking before buying extra insurance at the counter.

Additional Tips for Renting a Car

Drivers must usually be at least 21 years old, and drivers under 25 may pay a surcharge.
Inspect the vehicle carefully before leaving the parking facility and photograph any existing damage.
Return the car with a full tank of fuel to avoid expensive refueling charges.
During winter months, choose vehicles equipped with good tires or AWD due to possible snow.

Car rental companies

In Chicago Midway Airport you can find the following car rental companies: