Coach Bus Prices: How Much Does a Raleigh Coach Bus Rental Cost?

On average, you can expect to pay between $170 and $500 per hour for a coach bus rental in Raleigh, depending on the size of the bus, the features included, and the length of your trip. Daily rates typically range from $1,800 to $3,800 per day. Minibuses are generally less expensive, with hourly rates starting around $150 per hour and daily rates from $1,400 to $2,500. School buses are the most affordable option, with rates as low as $135 per hour or $1,300 per day. If you need transportation for just a few hours—such as shuttling wedding guests between venues in Downtown Raleigh or transporting corporate teams to RTP—a short-term rental may be your best bet. For longer trips, like taking students on an overnight field trip to Charlotte or Asheville, daily rates will apply and may offer better value for extended use.

Several key factors determine the total cost of your coach bus rental, including the type of vehicle you choose, the duration of your trip, the distance traveled, the time of year, and any additional amenities or special requests.

The type and size of bus is one of the biggest factors affecting price. Larger vehicles like 56-passenger motorcoaches cost more than smaller minibuses or school buses. Premium features such as WiFi, power outlets, DVD players, onboard restrooms, and reclining seats also increase the price. In Raleigh, full-size charter buses are ideal for large groups traveling to PNC Arena for a Hurricanes game or transporting wedding guests between venues in Glenwood South or North Hills. Minibuses work well for smaller groups heading to dinner in Downtown Raleigh or catching a show at Red Hat Amphitheater.

Trip duration and mileage are also important considerations. Most companies charge by the hour for local trips within Raleigh, with minimums ranging from four to five hours. For example, a five-hour rental to shuttle guests between a ceremony at Duke Chapel in Durham and a reception in Brier Creek would be billed at an hourly rate. Longer trips outside the Triangle—such as a weekend excursion to Charlotte, Wilmington, or Myrtle Beach—are usually priced by the day or by total miles traveled. The farther you go, the higher the cost, especially if the bus needs to stay overnight or make multiple stops along the way.

Seasonality plays a major role in pricing as well. Peak demand periods in Raleigh include spring (March-May) and fall (September-November), when schools are in session, weddings are popular, and college football is in full swing. During these months, rates are higher due to increased demand from UNC, NC State, and Duke fans traveling to away games, as well as local festivals like Hopscotch Music Festival and the North Carolina State Fair. Summer rates may be lower, but prices can spike again around major holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day.

Additional expenses to factor into your budget include tolls, parking fees, and driver accommodations for overnight trips. While Raleigh doesn’t have many toll roads, you may encounter them if your itinerary takes you east toward I-540 or south toward Charlotte on I-77. Parking fees can add up, especially in downtown areas near Fayetteville Street, Moore Square, or the Warehouse District. If your trip requires an overnight stay, you’ll need to provide lodging for your driver, which typically means a separate hotel room at your expense.

Finally, any special requests—such as ADA-accessible vehicles, custom branding, or extra luggage space—can affect the overall price. Be sure to discuss your specific needs with your reservation specialist so they can provide an accurate quote tailored to your group.