#  Car options 

 





While many Harvard affiliates live without cars, sometimes you may need or want access to a vehicle.



 

February 11, 2026

 

 

 

  [### Zipcar

 ](https://www.zipcar.com/)Hourly or daily car rentals, vehicles parked throughout Cambridge.

Harvard discounts available for Zipcar membership.

Reserve through app or website.



 

   ![Zipcar](/sites/g/files/omnuum11501/files/styles/hwp_16_9__480x270/public/2026-02/zipcar_0.jpg?itok=lqM5G13N) 

 

 

 

 ### Car Rentals

Several rental agencies in Cambridge and at the airport.

Best for weekend trips or longer needs.

Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget all have nearby locations.



 

   ![Car rental](/sites/g/files/omnuum11501/files/styles/hwp_16_9__480x270/public/2026-02/car%20rental.png?itok=JprPcjGS) 

 

 

 

 ### Owning a Car

Consider costs: purchase, insurance, parking, maintenance.

Parking permits: Cambridge residential permits required for street parking.

Winter considerations: snow removal, winter driving skills.



 

   ![Person driving a car](/sites/g/files/omnuum11501/files/styles/hwp_16_9__480x270/public/2026-01/car.jpg?itok=pF4g6bQD) 

 

 

 

  [### Harvard Parking

 ](https://transportation.harvard.edu/parking)Limited and requires permits.

Different options for students, faculty, staff.

Waitlists common for convenient locations.



 

   ![Harvard Garage](/sites/g/files/omnuum11501/files/styles/hwp_16_9__480x270/public/2026-02/harvard%20Garage.jpg?itok=6XRj74eP) 

 

 

 

  [### Residential Parking

 ](https://www.cambridgema.gov/IWantTo/ParkACarInCambridge)Cambridge residents can apply for street parking permits.

Requires proof of residency and car registration in Massachusetts.

Annual fee: $25 for first vehicle.



 

   ![Residential Parking Permit](/sites/g/files/omnuum11501/files/styles/hwp_16_9__480x270/public/2026-02/residentialstreetpermits.jpg?itok=UlgfdIAb) 

 

 

 

  [### Visitor Parking

 ](https://www.cambridgema.gov/IWantTo/ParkACarInCambridge)Very limited on-street parking for non-residents.

Metered parking in commercial areas.

Visitor parking permits available for residents' guests.

Commercial garages available but expensive ($20-40/day).



 

   ![Parking meter](/sites/g/files/omnuum11501/files/styles/hwp_16_9__480x270/public/2026-02/parking%20meter.jpg?itok=uzSy-LNG)