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# Budget – Car Rental in Chicago, Affordable Vehicle Options, Customer Experiences

Budget is a car rental service located at 10255 W Zemke Blvd, Chicago, IL, offering a variety of vehicles for travelers. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget aims to provide a seamless rental experience, though customer reviews highlight a mix of satisfaction and frustration. Established with the vision of making car rentals accessible and affordable, Budget has become a familiar name for those seeking reliable transportation in the Chicago area. The community often recognizes Budget for its convenient location near O'Hare International Airport, making it a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers.

## History
### The story of Budget
Budget was founded with the vision of providing affordable car rental solutions to travelers. The company has evolved over the years, adapting to the changing needs of customers while maintaining its core mission of affordability and accessibility. Budget has established itself as a key player in the car rental industry, particularly in major urban areas like Chicago.

### Milestones and growth
- **1960**: Budget was founded, focusing on budget-friendly car rentals.
- **1987**: The company expanded its services internationally, reaching markets beyond the United States.
- **2002**: Budget was acquired by the Avis Budget Group, further enhancing its service offerings and operational capabilities.
- **Present**: Budget continues to innovate, introducing digital solutions for easier booking and customer service.

### Cultural and local influence
Budget has significantly impacted local travel culture, especially in Chicago, where it serves a diverse clientele. The company’s presence at O'Hare International Airport facilitates travel for both tourists and business professionals, contributing to the local economy. Budget's commitment to affordability resonates with the community, making it a preferred choice for many.

### Continuing the tradition
Budget continues to uphold its founding principles by offering competitive rates and a wide selection of vehicles. The company regularly updates its fleet to include newer models, ensuring customers have access to reliable and modern transportation options. This commitment to quality and affordability helps maintain its reputation in the competitive car rental market.

## Community
### Community involvement
Budget engages with the local community through various initiatives, including partnerships with local businesses and participation in community events. By supporting local causes and collaborating with nearby organizations, Budget strengthens its ties to the Chicago area and enhances its community presence.

### Community notion about the place
The community's perception of Budget is mixed, as reflected in customer reviews. While many appreciate the affordability and convenience, others express frustration with service inconsistencies. This duality highlights the importance of continuous improvement in customer service and operational efficiency.

### Events and gatherings
Budget often participates in local events, providing sponsorships and support for community gatherings. These events not only promote Budget's services but also foster goodwill within the community, allowing residents to connect with the brand in a positive way.

## Offerings
### What Budget offers
Budget provides a range of rental vehicles, from economy cars to SUVs, catering to various customer needs. The company emphasizes affordability, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. Additionally, Budget offers various rental packages and options to enhance the customer experience.

### Dining and food experience
While Budget primarily focuses on car rentals, its proximity to various dining options in Chicago allows customers to easily access local cuisine. Travelers can enjoy a variety of food experiences before or after picking up their rental cars, enhancing their overall travel experience.

### Events and packages
Budget offers various rental packages tailored to different customer needs, including weekend getaways and long-term rentals. These packages often come with additional perks, such as discounted rates for extended rentals or special promotions during peak travel seasons.

### Facilities and features
- Convenient location near O'Hare International Airport
- Online booking and management system
- 24/7 customer service support
- Variety of vehicle options, including hybrids and SUVs
- Flexible rental terms and conditions

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Customer reviews of Budget reveal a spectrum of experiences, highlighting both positive and negative aspects of the service. Many customers appreciate the affordability and variety of vehicle options, while others express dissatisfaction with service delays and vehicle conditions.

### Compliments and strengths
Positive reviews often mention the affordability of rentals and the ease of the return process. Customers also appreciate the friendly service provided by some staff members, particularly during vehicle returns. The convenience of the location near the airport is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Conversely, negative reviews frequently cite long wait times for vehicle pickup and issues with vehicle cleanliness. Some customers report feeling misled by rental agreements and additional fees, which detracts from their overall experience. These contrasts emphasize the need for improved service consistency and transparency in pricing.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Budget offers a mix of strengths and weaknesses. While many customers appreciate the affordability and convenience, service inconsistencies and vehicle quality issues can detract from the experience. Continuous improvements in customer service and operational efficiency are essential for enhancing the overall customer experience.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Budget is conveniently located at 10255 W Zemke Blvd, Chicago, IL, making it an ideal choice for travelers arriving at O'Hare International Airport. The surrounding area offers a variety of attractions, including shopping centers, dining options, and cultural landmarks. Chicago's vibrant neighborhoods are easily accessible from Budget's location, allowing travelers to explore the city's rich history and diverse culture. The proximity to major highways also facilitates easy travel to nearby attractions, enhancing the overall convenience for customers.

## FAQs
**What are the rental hours** Budget operates 24/7, providing flexibility for customers.
**Is there a shuttle service** Yes, Budget offers shuttle services to and from O'Hare International Airport.
**Can I return the car after hours** Yes, Budget allows after-hours returns at designated locations.

## Visit Budget Today
Experience the convenience and affordability of Budget car rentals in Chicago. With a wide selection of vehicles and a commitment to customer service, Budget is well-positioned to meet your travel needs. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, Budget offers a reliable solution for your transportation needs. Explore the city with ease and enjoy the benefits of renting with Budget.

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Oh my!! Why are the ratings so low!!?!?!? We booked our Budget rental through Costco Travel bc nothing says "vacation mode" like using your bulk-membership powers to score a great car deal!! The process was smoother than a Costco rotisserie chicken!! At O'Hare, Linda at the Budget counter greeted us like a car-rental fairy... only to announce that our reserved vehicle was not available. But no worries.... she upgraded us to a choice between a Jeep, Hyundai, or Mazda, at no additional cost. We picked the Mazda CX-50, a ride so smooth it felt like it was gliding over buttered pavement!! After paying, Linda sent us on a small adventure to take the escalator to the 2nd floor, go through the parking garage, and find our chariot w the keys already inside. We also rented a hotspot (just in case we were in an area with no phone signal) which we didn't actually need bc apparently Chicago has better signal than a Verizon tower. Over 3.5 days, we drove w five people all around North Chicago, only spending $30 on gas , which in 2025 feels like a miracle!!! Return was a breeze: signs, attendants, and no drama. In short: great car, great price, and Linda deserves a raise!! *Pro tip: Get the pre pay for the tolls!! You are in uncharted waters (if you're not from this area) and trust, there are lots of different freeways and toll roads in this area!!! You have been warned!!!

decb6b94-da6b-49bf-80a5-81870aec72cf

I was there at 1:30 in the morning. There were 5 people working the check in area. When I arrived, I was very happy because there was only four people ahead of me in line. It turned out it took half an hour for me just to make it up to one of the check-in people. By the time I got my car there was 30 people in line. I told the last guy in line he probably wouldn't get his car for four hours. Total Nightmare. As a bonus I had a blowout out at 2:30 am, 30 miles from O'Hare. See photos However, the car return was super quick and easy. 1 star for pickup 5 stars for return 3 stars total.

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Sometimes I make the mistake of going to a place without checking their ratings on Yelp first; Unfortunately, this was one of those times. This Budget location currently has an average rating of 1.5 stars from 162 reviews. I wish I would have seen this before I came here. I arrived at this Budget location to get my rental car while visiting Chicago. The lady that helped me at Budget was professional. Unfortunately, I was immediately reminded of the frustrating policies (borderline trickery) that they have at Budget. About a week before traveling here, I took the time to make my rental car reservation online, and I clearly defined all the details and additions I wanted with my rental car. While visiting here in person, I was reminded how ridiculous and frustrating it is to have to acknowledge and sift through the multiple screens that Budget makes you sign off on for everything you want, even if you've already defined this in your reservation. I already stated what I wanted when I reserved the car! Personally, I believe that Budget uses this tedious technique in their attempt to trick people into buying more than they actually want when their customers are vulnerable, tired after a long journey. After finally getting my rental car, and before even arriving at my hotel, I was alerted that the check engine light had just come on for this rental car. The question that immediately popped into my mind was "Doesn't Budget check the health and safety of their cars before allowing their customers to use them?!?" Apparently not. During my travels in the area, I drove quite a bit in Budget's small economy car, which actually wore me out because it was so cheaply made. The rode vibration and rode noise was quite tedious on this plastic/tin-can of a car, which had poor suspension and rode-noise insulation. My return of the rental car was smooth, especially since I was expecting to pay the amount that Budget said I would be required to pay from my reservation. However, after returning home, I was surprised to see a much larger charge on my credit card from Budget. After looking into this, I discovered that Budget had additionally charged me for gas services when I clearly stated that I would return the car full of gas. My receipt with Budget even stated that I returned the car full of gas, but yet they still charged me a fee for filling up the car. Frustrated and annoyed, I then had to call Budget to ask them to remove this fee and reimburse this erroneous additional expense to my credit card. The Budget representative on the phone immediately proceeded to tell me that I would need to send her a copy of the receipt on my gas purchase before she would remove this additional expense. I then had to explain to her that Budget employees themselves reported the car as being full of gas upon return, and that this is clearly stated on my rental car records that she could see. I also had to tell her that I clearly stated I would return the car full of gas, as I did. She eventually removed this fee, but I was frustrated that I had to take my time to get them to remove this fraudulent fee in the first place. I was also disappointed that Budget provided me with no compensation whatsoever for their error. For all these reasons, but primarily for deceptive business practices, I have to give this Budget location a one-star rating. I would not recommend doing business at this location.

540bbf5b-d046-4cc2-9fb8-80df0a573f7f

Rented a car and it had a chopper in the window. I didn't notice it until after driving away. Called to make sure that it's in writing i even sent them pictures. I kept hearing a ping every time I tur Ed on the car then realized that there is a on one of the tires. These people dont check the cars before renting then out. There is no one that checks the car with you beforehand you get the vehicle.

f8a6d5ba-a024-4322-8481-4fb6093f1e9b

****Ask for a printed out agreement and review it before leaving**** They added a gas service option when I specially told them I would fill it up multiple times. This was an additional $100 fee. Also I paid for the toll pass and it did not work, so I had to pay for all of the tolls. I called customer services after returning the vehicle and they issued a refund. Overall it was easy to book online. I booked my car an hour before. I was dropped off at the Multi-Modal Facility so getting there wasn't difficult. There was no one in line at 8:30 AM, so checking in took 5 minutes. The vehicle was waiting for me running and warmed up in the ramp. The vehicle was a 2024 Chevy Blazer AWD SUV and was very nice and comfortable for our 200 mile trip.

1477d973-ee76-4712-bfa9-e7b51f7ff8e8

Writing this review while I stand in line. Had a reservation through a 3rd party (Priceline.) Car was already paid for. Had to wait in a long line just to get checked in and now currently in ANOTHER line to wait for a car. Why might you ask? Because they don't have enough cars for the reservations currently. So now I have to waste more time waiting for a car that is suppose to be available based on my reservation. But I'm still paying the same price for this inconvenience. It's funny that a company can do this, but if I bring the car back late, then I'm being charged a fee. Shouldn't I be able to take my time like y'all are currently doing? Y'all are wild and ridiculous and need a better system.

a6be038d-bfc9-4af1-ab4b-2040e9adfe00

I stood in the Fastbreak line for over an hour and a half. I have never stood in line for a rental that long! The worker was rude, he kept assuming that the many people in line were not members, and he would yell that they were in the wrong line. He yelled the announcement, condescendingly, four times, and I only saw two people leave the line for the main line during that whole time. I had the vehicle for less than 48 hours and drove it, maybe four hours. I actually turned it in 15 hours earlier than scheduled. I didn't eat, nor drank, nor smoked (I don't smoke) in the vehicle, yet I received an email that I left the vehicle dirty and will be charged $450.00! I called and was put on hold, just for the call to be disconnected immediately . I called back and was told that it was a mistake and I shouldn't be charged. I'm keeping my eye on my credit card for any charges.

50615356-8c53-4409-a5bb-69679f841266

Gross. They gave me the wrong parking # for my reserved car ... and then got pissed when I got in the car of the spot they gave me. !?! The car they switched me to was gross. Pet hair ALL over. Crumbs in the cup holders. Muddy prints on the ceiling. Landed from a red-eye and just wanted to get home or I would have refused the vehicle.

5c1c6698-61c3-43bf-a953-ea067e34319d

I have used this facility three times. All three times, I ordered and was confirmed with a fast-break mystery car. I paid for it in full before I picked up the rental. Once out of three, my fast-break was ready to go, and I got in and drove off. I scanned my car out, and I was gone. The other two times, I had to get in line and wait for my paid-for car, and not once was I told sorry. It's not a big deal, but I usually want what I paid for. The return process is easy. You park your car and leave. There is only one slight problem with one of my returns: they charged me $100.00 for gas. Said I returned the car empty. I did not keep the receipt nor take a picture of the gas tank showing full. I did have my Visa card showing where, when, and how much gas I purchased within a 1/2 mile of the rental center. Then and only then did they reverse my charge. Lesson learned--a picture of the gas gauge and receipt for the gas purchased. One final point. The car on my last rental had a shimmy in the front end. This is caused by one to two things: bad tires and lousy CV or constant velocity joints. I told them about the problem, and it was almost laughable as the guy said yeah, I will make a note about it. We both know he didn't do a damn thing.

1fd55d4e-ff3e-4b20-baed-f491f55616a7

1:00am 40+ people in line. Only two counter people. No Fastbreak window, just one line for everyone.

Discover Budget, a top Chicago restaurant offering delicious cuisine in the heart of the city. Experience great food and vibrant atmosphere today.

Budget Restaurant in Chicago IL | Delicious Cuisine & Vibrant Atmosphere

Chicago

Budget

Illinois

Enjoy delicious, budget-friendly meals at Budget Restaurant in Chicago, IL. Perfect for quick bites and family dinners. Visit us today!

Budget Restaurant Chicago IL | Affordable Dining Near You

Learn about Budget Restaurant in Chicago, IL. A cozy spot offering tasty meals at great prices. Discover our story and menu today!

About Budget Restaurant Chicago IL | Your Local Dining Spot

Opening hours for Budget Restaurant, Chicago, IL. Find opening hours for Budget Restaurant, Chicago, IL at 10255 W Zemke Blvd.

Budget Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Budget

Ice Bar

Protein Bar & Kitchen

Burrito Beach