Get wheels when you need them.
Cars are expensive. They’re expensive to buy, and they’re expensive to fuel, insure, and maintain. If you pay extra for parking at home, then you’re also paying to not use your car.
In 2024, the average American spent 17% of their income on transportation. A handful of companies are proving that people don’t need to own a car to have reliable access to one. These companies are promoting carsharing as an alternative to car ownership. Some of these services are available in Contra Costa County.
Turo
Turo allows you to rent just about any car, just about anywhere by using their website or app. With hundreds of thousands of vehicles listed by local hosts, you can choose the exact car you want and pick it up where you want. Turo offers:
- The ability to search by location
- Reviews of individual vehicles from previous renters
- Vehicle delivery and airport vehicle rental
- The ability to easily chat with your host or customer support
Requirements: To book a car on Turo, have a valid driver’s license and be 18 years old or older.
Míocar (Richmond)
Míocar is a revolutionary 100% electric vehicle (EV) car sharing service. Members can access vehicles at locations across Richmond on an hourly or daily basis. As a member, you can book a car online or by downloading the Míocar Networks smartphone app.
Requirements: Míocar members must be 21 years of age or older, have a valid driver’s license (this includes AB60 license holders), and a valid credit, debit, or prepaid card.
ZipCar (El Cerrito)
ZipCar provides on-demand access to cars by the hour or the day. In Contra Costa County, their cars are available in El Cerrito. You can book a car online or via their app, then unlock it using your phone. If you only need a car occasionally, save big on gas, maintenance, parking, and insurance costs by using ZipCar instead of owning a vehicle.
Restrictions: Must be 21 or older (18 if a student at a university affiliated with ZipCar, like CSU East Bay) and have a valid driver’s license.
