How Much Does a Party Bus Cost?

Last Updated on December 27, 2023
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Picture this: a large, inviting vehicle, not just any bus, but one specially crafted for joyous occasions. It’s the party bus, a favorite for various celebrations, from spirited birthday gatherings to sophisticated weddings and even proms.

These buses aren’t just about transport; they’re equipped with entertainment features like thumping sound systems and even spaces to groove and dance.

How Much Does a Party Bus Cost per Hour?

The cost of a party bus falls between a modest $100 to a more lavish $300 per hour. It’s interesting to note that renting a party bus doesn’t have a fixed price. The size of the bus heavily influences this cost, along with other important factors.

Larger busses, offering more space, understandably command a higher rate. Additionally, the presence of luxurious amenities such as state-of-the-art audio systems, dazzling lighting, and plush seating arrangements can nudge the price upwards. A very important factor is the rental duration; keeping the bus for extended periods will invariably increase your final bill.

PartyBus.com provides estimated rental prices based on bus size and day of the week.

• Small party buses (10-20 passengers) cost $170-$300 on weekdays and $170-$350 on weekends.
• Mid-size buses (20-30 passengers) are priced at $200-$350 on weekdays and $200-$400 on weekends.
• Large buses (40-50 passengers) range from $250-$500 on weekdays and $250-$550 on weekends.

It’s important to note that these are estimated prices and actual prices may vary significantly from these rates.

Price4Limo Offers hourly rates starting from:

• 18 Passenger Party Bus: $125 per hour.
• 20 Passenger Party Bus: $150 per hour.
• 22 Passenger Party Bus: $160 per hour.
• 25 Passenger Party Shuttle: $175 per hour.

They mention that prices may vary greatly depending on the city and state, and due to the impact of inflation, all rental prices shown are past estimates. Actual pricing may be significantly higher.

At USA Bus Charter party bus rental rates start as low as $109.00 per hour in select U.S. markets.

They work with groups to offer the best party bus at the best rates, with all buses being new or late model and built to high standards​

Factors influencing the average cost to rent a party bus

The rental cost is usually influenced by several important factors. The geographical location and timing are usually among the most important factors to play a role in setting a price. For instance, prices in bustling metropolitan areas like New York or Los Angeles might be higher compared to smaller cities or rural areas. Understanding these regional differences can help in budgeting accurately for your event.

You might also like our articles about the cost of limousine rental, horse and carriage rental, or private driver hiring.

Specific periods or locales, particularly during high-demand seasons, can see a surge in prices.

Also, the nature of the event itself can dictate the cost – a wedding, for instance, may carry a different pricing structure compared to a more casual affair.

Additional costs with party bus rental

• Tipping the Driver: Generally, it’s customary to tip the driver, and anywhere between 15-20% of the rental cost should be fine.
• Fuel Surcharge: If your journey is lengthy, expect to account for fuel costs.
• Cleaning Up: Post-party clean-ups, if extensive, can add to your bill.
• Overtime Fees: Exceeding your booked time? Be prepared for additional charges.

Amenities and Their Impact on Cost

The range of amenities a party bus offers – from high-end sound systems and LED lighting to onboard bars and plush seating – can significantly influence the cost. More luxurious and feature-rich buses will naturally command a higher rental fee. It’s very important to balance the desired amenities with your budget.

When weighing options, it’s beneficial to compare the costs of party buses with alternatives like limousines or charter buses. While party buses offer a unique experience with more space and amenities, sometimes a smaller limo or a simpler bus might be more budget-friendly, especially for smaller groups.

How to spend less on party busses

Booking your party bus well in advance can be a smart move for cost savings. Also, if you’re partying with a group, sharing the expense can make it more manageable. Opting for rental during quieter times – think weekdays or off-peak seasons – can be lighter on your wallet.

Engaging in negotiations with rental services, especially for larger groups or longer rental periods, can help you land a discount. And if you’re okay with a no-frills experience, choosing a bus with basic amenities can keep costs down.

Final words

Embarking on a party bus adventure is a great way to celebrate, but it’s wise to be informed about the costs involved. Getting a better grip on the rental price and factors that influence it and adopting strategies to minimize expenses, will help you ensure a memorable and budget-friendly experience.