How Much to Rent a Golf Cart in New York: Price Guide and Tips
Renting a golf cart in New York can be an exciting way to explore beaches, parks, or large events. However, prices vary greatly depending on where you are, how long you rent, and what kind of cart you choose. In this guide, we dive into real-world pricing from reliable rental companies, analyze key factors affecting cost, and offer actionable tips for snagging a good deal. We’ll also cover legal and insurance considerations specific to New York.
For example, at an upstate New York resort, a 4-passenger electric golf cart is about $75 per day (plus tax). Meanwhile, a Poughkeepsie dealership lists a standard 2-seater at $200/day and larger 6–8 passenger carts around $350/day. These figures give a baseline: rental costs typically range from under $100 to several hundred dollars per day. Factors like location (city vs. rural), duration, cart size/type, and power source (electric vs. gas) all influence the final price. We’ll unpack each factor and provide tips on how to save when renting a golf cart in New York.
Real-World Pricing: Examples from New York
To understand actual costs, let’s look at two concrete examples from New York rental providers:
Old Forge Camping Resort (Adirondacks) – This resort offers 4-seater electric golf carts at $75/day plus tax during the spring–fall season. This is a typical rate for vacation spots and campgrounds in upstate New York, where the terrain is flat and the demand is seasonal (summer being peak).
Associates Golf & Utility Vehicles (Poughkeepsie) – A golf-cart dealership in the Hudson Valley publishes rental rates on its site. Their fleet includes:
2-passenger cart: $200/day (weekly $800, monthly $1,000).
4-passenger cart: $275/day (weekly $900, monthly $1,100).
6- or 8-passenger cart: $350/day (weekly $1,100, monthly $1,400).
Utility carts (with cargo beds) range from $275–$325/day.
These examples illustrate that standard carts (2–4 seats) often run a couple hundred dollars per day in New York, while larger or specialized carts can be $300–$350 per day. Week-long rentals can roughly double the daily rate (with discounted multipliers) and monthly rates are often considerably cheaper on a per-day.Other providers: Many companies (especially in New York City or Long Island) don’t list public prices online and prefer quotes, but anecdotal sources indicate similar ballparks. For instance, some resort rentals (like on Long Island beaches or NYC attractions) advertise around $100–$150 per day for a 4-seater. Shopping platforms like Cloud of Goods list carts for NYC delivery, but they only show sample reviews, not fixed prices. It’s safe to say rental prices anywhere in New York typically start around $50–$75/day for the smallest carts and go up from there.
In summary, budget $75–$150 per day for basic carts, and up to $300–$400 per day for large multi-passenger or luxury models. Multi-day rentals are cheaper per day (e.g. a week for $800–$1,100 vs. $200–$350 daily), so planning longer rentals can save money.
Factors Affecting Golf Cart Rental Costs
Several key factors will make your rental quote higher or lower. Understanding these can help you compare offers and negotiate.
Location and Delivery: Rental prices can vary widely between New York City, Long Island, and upstate. City rentals may be pricier due to higher demand, permits, or delivery challenges. Many companies charge extra for delivery beyond their service area. For example, a cart delivered to Manhattan or a remote campground could incur hundreds in fees. Always clarify delivery and pickup charges, or opt for self-pickup if possible to save.
Duration (Daily vs. Weekly/Monthly): Most dealers offer daily, weekly, and monthly rates. As seen above, weekly rentals often cost about 4–5 times the daily rate (not 7×), effectively giving 20–25% off per day. Monthly rates can be even better value for extended use. If you only need a cart for 2–3 days, the daily rate applies (with some requiring minimum 2-day holiday/weekend rentals). But if you can rent a week or month, you’ll typically pay significantly less per day. Always ask the provider for their weekly/monthly discounts.
Cart Type and Size: The number of passengers is a huge factor. Two-seat carts are cheapest; four-seat is standard; six- and eight-seat “limo” carts cost more. Utility carts (with cargo beds) usually have rental rates similar to 4-seaters. Limo-style carts or customized models (with fancy seats, audio, lights, lifts) can command premium prices. Also consider power source: electric carts often cost a bit less upfront but check if they include a full battery and whether recharging is provided. Gas carts might run higher per day but you pay fuel separately. In practice, expect electric and gas carts to be in the same general range, though some providers charge a “fuel surcharge” for gas models or a charging fee for electrics.
Season and Demand: In New York’s summer months (Memorial Day to Labor Day), rental companies are busiest. Booking well in advance is wise. Off-season rentals (early spring or late fall) may come at lower rates or increased availability. Holiday weekends (July 4th, etc.) often have surcharges or minimums. If you have flexibility, compare prices mid-week versus weekend.
Legal Restrictions: Note that in New York State, standard golf carts are not street-legal. They cannot be registered to drive on public roads unless converted to a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV) with lights, seat belts, and safety features. The NY DMV says a golf cart “cannot be registered as an ATV” and only specially-equipped LSVs can be legally registered and driven on New York highways. In practice, most rentals are used on private property, campgrounds, or designated park roads. If you need a cart for street use (for example, on a gated community’s streets that require registration), make sure the rental is an LSV and provide a driver’s license. The LSV must meet standards (headlights, signals, etc.) and will need plates and insurance. For most customers, this isn’t an issue, but it’s critical in New York’s regulatory environment.
Electric vs. Gas Considerations: Electric carts require access to charging. Some rentals include a charger; others assume you have a charger on site. Gas carts need fuel: either return them full or pay a fill-up fee. Electric carts are usually quieter and lighter, which can be a plus for steady terrain, but they may run slower (15-18 mph) versus gas carts (up to 20 mph). Often, electric carts are slightly cheaper per day because you’re not paying for fuel – but check if the rate includes battery charge. For example, the Old Forge rate of $75/day is for an electric 4-seater.
Tips to Get the Best Deals
Book Early and Off-Peak: Summer weekends book out fast. Reserve months in advance if possible. Booking off-peak (spring or fall weekdays) may yield lower rates.
Bundle or Negotiate: If you need multiple carts or rental days, ask for a package deal. Many companies (especially event-focused ones) can offer discounts for multiple units or longer periods. Mention any local discount programs (e.g. AAA or club memberships). Some rental sites like Cloud of Goods or local dealers will negotiate or give coupons for longer rentals.
Compare Providers: Don’t just go with the first option. Check local golf cart dealers (like Associates in Poughkeepsie), resort rentals (like Old Forge), and rental marketplaces (e.g. Cloud of Goods, although exact prices need quoting). Read reviews to ensure reliability. Sometimes a slightly higher base price is worth it for better service and no hidden fees.
Check for Hidden Costs: Always ask about delivery/pickup fees, fuel charges, insurance or damage waivers, cleaning fees, and taxes. A cheap base rate can become expensive once you include these. Get a detailed quote upfront. If you plan to drive it often, ask if unlimited mileage is allowed or if there’s a per-mile charge.
What to Inspect: When the cart arrives, inspect it carefully. Check that brakes, lights (if any), signals, seat belts (if equipped) and horn work. Examine tires and battery level. Take photos of any existing damage. Confirm the fuel/electric charge level so you know if you need to refill. This avoids disputes on return.
Ask About Licenses: If your rental could end up on any public street (even a quiet neighborhood), make sure either the cart is street-legal or that you won’t need a license. Keep in mind: NY law requires a valid driver’s license for LSVs, and typically rentals disallow road use unless it’s an approved LSV.
Look for Discounts: Some companies offer promos or off-season discounts via email newsletters or social media. If you’re a veteran or first responder, note that W&B Adirondacks (Lake George) and others explicitly encourage asking for a discount (often 10%). Sometimes local campgrounds or event venues have exclusive deals with rental vendors, so ask around.
Return on Time: If you rent by the day or week, be mindful of the return deadline. Late returns can incur extra day charges. Some vendors offer overnight drop-off (like delivery the evening before without charge), but clarify this when booking.
By planning ahead, negotiating for a longer term, and reading the fine print, renters often save 10–30% compared to last-minute bookings.
Prices vary, but expect roughly $75–$100 per day for a 2–4 passenger cart in many locations, and up to $300–$400 per day for larger 6–8 passenger carts or luxury models. Weekly rates can cut the daily cost by 20–25%, and monthly rates often save even more. Off-season or less touristy areas may be cheaper, while NYC or beach rentals can be higher (often $100+ per day).
Key factors include the cart’s size/type (2-seater vs. 8-seater), power source (electric vs gas), rental duration (daily vs weekly/monthly), and location. Peak season (summer) and special events often cost more. Delivery/pickup distance and additional services (insurance, fuel, accessories) can also add to the bill.
If you’re keeping the cart on private property or a closed park, a license might not be strictly required by the rental company (and NY DMV doesn’t register unmodified golf carts). However, to drive on public roads, New York requires the cart to be classified as a Low-Speed Vehicle with lights, seat belts, etc., and it then must be registered, insured, and driven by a licensed driver. Most rentals assume use on-site or in controlled areas. It’s wise to carry personal auto liability insurance just in case, even if not legally mandated.
Common extras include delivery fees, fuel surcharges, insurance or damage waivers, taxes, and sometimes cleaning fees. Ask the company for a full breakdown. For instance, some providers list a delivery charge “TBD” depending on distance, and others explicitly add all taxes on top of the quoted rate. It’s best to get any quote in writing.
Electric carts usually have a lower rental rate since there’s no fuel cost, but you need to recharge them (confirm if a charger is provided or if batteries are topped off). Gas carts give more range and power, but you’ll pay for the gas used. Performance-wise, gas carts may go a bit faster and handle hills better. From a price standpoint, they are comparable; just clarify if fuel or charge is included.
Many local dealerships and rental companies offer carts, especially near resorts and golf courses. Examples include Associates Golf & Utility Vehicles (Poughkeepsie), Old Forge Camping Resort (Upstate NY), W&B Adirondacks (Lake George area), and Hampton Carts (Long Island) among others. For NYC events, companies like Cloud of Goods partner with local vendors to provide carts (though exact pricing usually requires a quote).
Standard golf carts (like those seen on courses) are not street-legal in New York because they lack required safety equipment. Only specially-equipped Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) with lights, windshield, seat belts, etc., can be registered and driven on roads. If your rental is just a regular golf cart, it should stay on private property, beach paths, or within designated areas of a resort. Always check local laws – some towns may allow limited road use at low speeds, but in general assume no roads unless it’s an LSV.
Daily rentals are common for events or vacations. If you need a cart for a longer stay (campground, hotel, or vacation rental), many places offer weekly or monthly rentals at discounted total cost. For instance, Associates charges $800 for a week (vs. $200/day) for a 2-seater. Always ask for those extended rates to save.
Most providers let you book online or by phone. For resorts, adding the cart at the time of booking your cabin or site (like Old Forge’s “Book Your Ride Now!” link) is common. Dealerships may require filling a form (e.g. Associates’ “Get a Rental” link) or calling their office. Marketplaces (Cloud of Goods, Rent101, etc.) let you select model and see availability before paying.
Inspect the cart thoroughly. Take note of any damage, check that all lights/brakes/horn/seat belts work, and confirm how much fuel or battery charge it has. Make sure you have any necessary keys or remotes. It’s best to do a quick test drive on site (if allowed) to catch issues immediately.
By understanding these factors and doing a bit of homework, you can find a golf cart rental in New York that fits your needs and budget. Whether you’re zipping around a lakeside campground or providing guest transport at an event, informed shopping will ensure you pay a fair price and have a smooth rental experience.
