Apex Charter Bus Prices
| Bus Type | Per Hour | Per Day | Per Mile |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 to 56 Passenger Charter Bus | $179 – $499+ | $1,781 – $3,781 | $6.09 – $10.04 |
| 40 to 50 Passenger Charter Bus | $172 – $482+ | $1,696 – $3,561 | $6.12 – $10.07 |
| 25 to 35 Passenger Minibus | $148 – $448+ | $1,616 – $3,471 | $4.15 – $10.10 |
| 20 to 24 Passenger Minibus | $158 – $448+ | $1,615 – $3,370 | $4.09 – $9.04 |
| 15 to 18 Passenger Minibus | $142 – $422+ | $1,528 – $3,263 | $4.13 – $8.08 |
| Entertainer Coach | $313 – $548+ | $3,017 – $5,017+ | $6.13 – $10.08 |
| Yellow School Bus | $151 – $456+ | $1,524 – $3,659 | $6.11 – $10.06 |
| Shuttle Bus | $142 – $437+ | $1,540 – $3,675 | $6.14 – $10.09 |
Apex Party Bus Prices
| Type of Party Bus | Cost Per Hour Weekdays | Cost Per Hour Weekends | Cost Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Party Bus (10 to 20 Passengers) | $170 – $440+ | $186 – $456+ | $1,005 – $2,905+ |
| Medium Party Bus (20 to 40 Passengers) | $211 – $511+ | $205 – $485+ | $1,202 – $3,502+ |
| Large Party Bus Rental (40 to 50 Passengers) | $253 – $503+ | $230 – $510+ | $1,480 – $3,880+ |
| Mercedes Sprinter Party Bus | $154 – $394+ | $189 – $459+ | $1,017 – $3,917+ |
* Prices may vary greatly in your city and state. Due to the impact of COVID-19 and inflation, all rental prices shown are past estimates. Actual pricing may be significantly higher depending on availability and location. To get real-time pricing, call us 984-386-2780 or use our online quote tool.
How Much Does a Charter Bus Rental Cost?
Charter bus rental prices in North Carolina generally cost between $170 to $300 per hour depending on the type of bus you rent and when you are traveling. Daily rates will range from $1,800 to $3,800 per day. For example, a 56-passenger charter bus rental in Apex will cost $185 to $270 per hour while a 25-passenger minibus rental costs $160 to $250 per hour. Smaller vehicles like sprinter vans will be $150 to $200 per hour. If you are looking to rent a bus for multiple days, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $3,500 per day for a full-size charter bus, and $1,600 to $2,400 per day for a minibus. These prices are averages and can vary based on the season, the exact route, and how far in advance you book. The best way to get an exact price is to use our online quote tool or call our team at 984-386-2780.
All quotes will include the bus, driver, mileage, fuel, insurance, and any tolls or taxes. The only things not included are parking fees, hotel rooms (if needed), and gratuity.
How Much Does a Party Bus Rental Cost?
Party bus rental prices in North Carolina generally cost between $250 and $500+ per hour depending on the size, make, model, and amenities of the party bus you rent. For example, a 20-passenger party bus rental in Apex will cost $250 to $350 per hour, while a 30-passenger party bus rental costs $325 to $450 per hour. Larger party buses that seat 40+ people can cost $400 to $600+ per hour. Daily rates for party buses range from $2,500 to $5,000+ per day. These prices are averages and can vary based on the season, the exact route, and how far in advance you book. The best way to get an exact price is to use our online quote tool or call our team at 984-386-2780.
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Call Now: 984-386-2780What Factors Influence Charter Bus Rental Pricing?
When you contact us for a quote, we’ll ask about your itinerary, headcount, and amenity preferences. This information helps us determine the best vehicle for your needs and calculate an accurate price. The main factors that influence the cost of your charter bus rental include:
- Distance and duration of your trip
- The time of year you’re traveling
- Day of the week
- Your starting and ending locations
- Bus type and size
- Tolls and parking fees
- Booking timing
Let’s break down each of these factors in more detail so you can better understand what goes into your quote.
Distance and Duration
The most significant factor in determining your charter bus rental cost is how far and how long you’ll be traveling. For local trips within the same city or county, such as shuttling wedding guests between venues in downtown Raleigh or transporting employees from Cary to Research Triangle Park, we typically charge by the hour with a four- or five-hour minimum. Hourly rates in North Carolina generally range from $170 to $300 per hour depending on the size and type of bus.
For longer trips that cover more distance, such as taking a church group from Apex to Charlotte for a weekend conference or driving a sports team from Durham to Wilmington for an away game, we usually charge by the day or by the mile. Daily rates average $1,800 to $3,800 per day, while mileage rates are typically $5 to $8 per mile. Multi-day trips will also require you to provide hotel accommodations for your driver.
The Time of Year
Charter bus demand fluctuates throughout the year, which affects pricing. Peak season in North Carolina runs from March through June and September through November. During these months, schools are in session (meaning more field trips and sporting events), wedding season is in full swing, and many companies host corporate retreats or conferences. If you’re planning a trip during peak season, especially around major holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, or Thanksgiving, expect to pay higher rates due to increased demand.
Off-peak months are January, February, July, and August. You may be able to secure lower rates during these times since there’s less competition for buses. However, keep in mind that large events—such as college football games at UNC Chapel Hill or NC State, or festivals like Dreamville in Raleigh—can still drive up prices even in slower months.
Day of the Week
Weekends are the busiest time for charter bus rentals because that’s when most people are free to attend weddings, parties, concerts, and other social events. As a result, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday bookings tend to be more expensive than weekday rentals. If you have flexibility in your schedule, consider traveling on a Tuesday or Wednesday to take advantage of lower rates and greater bus availability.
Your Starting and Ending Locations
Where your trip begins and ends also impacts your quote. Buses are dispatched from our nearest hub, so if you’re located in a major city like Raleigh, Charlotte, Greensboro, or Fayetteville, you’ll have access to a larger fleet and more competitive pricing. However, if you’re starting or ending your trip in a remote or rural area—such as Murphy in the far west or Elizabeth City in the northeast—you may incur additional charges for “deadhead” mileage, which covers the distance the bus travels empty to reach your pickup point or return to base after drop-off.
Bus Type and Size
The type and size of bus you choose will significantly affect your rental cost. Full-size charter buses (also known as motorcoaches) are the largest and most expensive option, seating up to 56 passengers and offering amenities like reclining seats, restrooms, WiFi, power outlets, and luggage bays. Minibuses come in various sizes ranging from 18 to 35 seats and are ideal for smaller groups or shorter trips. They’re more affordable than full-size coaches but may have fewer amenities. Sprinter vans are the smallest option, accommodating 10 to 15 passengers with limited storage space. Party buses are available in sizes ranging from 15 to 40+ passengers and feature custom lighting, sound systems, wraparound seating, and other entertainment-focused amenities. These are typically the most expensive option per hour due to their luxury buildouts.
Tolls and Parking Fees
While most expenses are included in your quote, tolls and parking fees are not. North Carolina has several toll roads, including the Triangle Expressway (NC 540) near Raleigh and the Monroe Expressway (US 74) east of Charlotte. If your route takes you on these roads, you’ll be responsible for covering the tolls, which can range from a few dollars to $20+ depending on distance traveled. Parking fees vary widely depending on the venue and city. For example, parking a charter bus at PNC Arena in Raleigh costs $40 per bus, while downtown Charlotte garages may charge $25 to $50 for oversized vehicles. Beach towns like Wrightsville Beach or Carolina Beach often require prepaid permits for bus parking, which can add $20 to $60 to your total cost. Always check with your destination ahead of time to arrange suitable parking for a large vehicle.
Booking Timing
How far in advance you book your charter bus can make a big difference in price and availability. We recommend reserving your bus at least three to six months before your event, especially if it falls during peak season or coincides with a major local happening. Last-minute bookings (less than two weeks’ notice) are subject to higher rates and limited selection, as most buses will already be committed to other trips. Planning ahead gives you the best chance of locking in your preferred vehicle at the lowest possible rate.
Cost-saving Tips
- Book early: The sooner you reserve your bus, the better your rate will be.
- Travel during off-peak times: Weekdays and winter months are generally cheaper.
- Choose the right size bus: Don’t pay for extra seats you don’t need.
- Consolidate pick-up/drop-off locations: Fewer stops mean less time and mileage.
- Split costs among passengers: The more people in your group, the lower the per-person price.
Ready to Get a Quote?
The best way to find out exactly how much your Apex charter bus rental will cost is to contact Charter Bus Company Apex today. Our team is available 24/7 to provide you with a personalized quote based on your specific needs and itinerary. You can call us at 984-386-2780 or use our online quote form to get started. We look forward to helping you plan your next trip!
Sample Trip Pricing Examples
Below are a few sample pricing examples for common trips in Apex, NC and around Wake County. Please note that these are estimates and your actual price may vary based on your specific needs and travel dates.
School Field Trip From Apex to Raleigh Museums
Apex Middle School is planning a field trip for 100 students and 10 chaperones to visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and the North Carolina Museum of History in downtown Raleigh. They will need two 56-passenger charter buses to transport everyone comfortably. The itinerary includes a 9:00 AM departure from Apex, arrival at the museums by 10:00 AM, and a return to Apex by 3:00 PM. This is an 6-hour local charter, so the quote would be $2,000 per bus ($4,000 total). Each museum offers free bus parking, so there are no additional parking fees.
Wedding Shuttle in Downtown Raleigh
A couple is hosting their wedding at The Stockroom at 230 in downtown Raleigh and wants to provide continuous shuttle service for guests between the venue and two hotels (Residence Inn Raleigh Downtown and Sheraton Raleigh Hotel) over a five-hour period. They book one 25-passenger minibus to run loops from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The total cost for this local shuttle service is quoted at $1,200. Since both hotels and the venue are within walking distance, the minibus will use curbside loading zones without incurring additional parking fees.
Corporate Retreat From Cary to Pinehurst Resort
A tech company in Cary is organizing a two-day corporate retreat at Pinehurst Resort. They need transportation for 30 employees, departing Cary at 8:00 AM, arriving at Pinehurst by 10:00 AM, and returning the following day after lunch. A 28-passenger minibus is booked for this overnight trip, with a quote of $2,400. The company will cover a hotel room for the driver at Pinehurst Resort (approximately $180/night) and provide meals. There are no tolls on the route, and Pinehurst offers complimentary bus parking.
Bachelor Party Bus From Raleigh to Downtown Durham
A group of 18 friends is renting a party bus for a bachelor party, with plans to visit several bars and clubs in downtown Durham. The bus will pick up the group in Raleigh at 7:00 PM, make stops at multiple venues in Durham, and return everyone home by 2:00 AM. This 7-hour party bus rental is quoted at $2,100. Downtown Durham has designated bus drop-off zones near Main Street and Corcoran Street, but some parking lots may charge $25-$40 for overnight bus parking.
Church Group Trip From Apex to Carowinds Amusement Park
A local church is organizing a day trip to Carowinds amusement park in Charlotte for 40 members. The bus will depart Apex at 7:00 AM, arrive at Carowinds by 10:30 AM, and leave the park at 6:00 PM to return home. A 47-passenger charter bus is quoted at $2,800 for this full-day trip. Carowinds charges $30 for oversized vehicle parking, which the group will pay upon arrival. The church will also budget for driver meals and a tip.
Sports Team Transportation From Holly Springs to Greensboro Coliseum
A high school basketball team in Holly Springs needs transportation to a playoff game at the Greensboro Coliseum. The team consists of 15 players, 3 coaches, and 5 supporters. A 23-passenger minibus is sufficient for this group, with a quote of $1,600 for the round-trip. The itinerary includes a 2:00 PM departure, arrival in Greensboro by 4:30 PM, and return to Holly Springs after the game ends around 10:00 PM. The Greensboro Coliseum charges $20 for bus parking.
Multi-day College Tour From Apex to Chapel Hill, Durham, and Winston-salem
A group of high school seniors is embarking on a three-day college tour to visit UNC-Chapel Hill, Duke University, and Wake Forest University. They book a 38-passenger minibus for the duration of the trip, with a quote of $4,500 for three days. The itinerary includes campus tours, hotel stays in Durham and Winston-Salem, and evening activities. The group will cover hotel rooms for the driver (estimated $150/night) and any parking fees at university lots ($10-$25 per campus).
Music Festival Shuttle From Apex to Walnut Creek Amphitheatre
A group of 32 friends is attending a summer music festival at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek in Raleigh. They rent a 35-passenger minibus to shuttle them to and from the venue, with pick-up in Apex at 5:00 PM and return after the concert ends at 11:00 PM. This 6-hour rental is quoted at $1,350. Walnut Creek charges $40 for bus parking, which the group will split among themselves. The minibus will remain on-site during the concert for secure storage of personal items.
