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

The most common question we get is: “How much does it cost to rent a bus in Meridian?” The answer depends on several factors, but here are some average price ranges to help you budget:

• Charter bus (40-56 passengers): $180–$325 per hour, $1,900–$3,800 per day, or $2,400–$3,900 per round trip
• Minibus (18-35 passengers): $150–$250 per hour, $1,600–$3,100 per day, or $2,000–$3,300 per round trip
• Sprinter van (10-15 passengers): $145–$225 per hour, $1,525–$2,850 per day, or $1,900–$2,950 per round trip

These are just averages — your actual quote may be higher or lower depending on your specific needs. For example, a simple shuttle from downtown Boise to the Ford Idaho Center in Nampa might cost less than an all-day wine tour through Caldwell and Marsing. The best way to get an accurate price is to contact us with your itinerary details.

Several key factors determine the final cost of your Meridian bus rental:

• Travel Dates and Seasonality: Rates are highest during peak seasons like spring (April–June) and fall (September–November) when schools, sports teams, and wedding parties are all booking buses. If you’re planning a graduation trip to Boise State University or a homecoming shuttle for Rocky Mountain High School, expect to pay more during these busy months. Winter rates (December–February) are usually lower unless you’re heading to Bogus Basin for a ski trip.
• Trip Duration and Distance: Longer trips cost more, whether measured by total miles or hours. A same-day round trip from Meridian to Twin Falls will be cheaper than an overnight excursion to Salt Lake City or Spokane. Local shuttles within Ada County may have minimum hourly requirements (usually 4–5 hours), while out-of-town charters are priced by the day or mile.
• Bus Size and Type: Full-size charter buses (47–56 seats) are more expensive than minibuses (18–35 seats) or sprinter vans (10–15 seats). However, the cost per passenger is often lower on larger vehicles, making them a better value for big groups. Premium features like onboard restrooms, WiFi, power outlets, and reclining seats can also affect the price.
• Itinerary Complexity: Multiple stops, tight schedules, or heavy traffic can increase costs due to extra driving time and coordination. For example, providing continuous shuttle service between The Village at Meridian, Settlers Park, and several hotel blocks will require more planning (and possibly more buses) than a simple point-to-point transfer.
• Start and End Locations: All pricing is based on the “garage-to-garage” principle, meaning you pay for the time and distance it takes the bus to reach your pickup point and return to the depot after drop-off. If your trip starts outside the Boise metro area—such as in Mountain Home, Emmett, or Ontario, Oregon—there may be additional charges for deadhead mileage.
• Additional Expenses: Tolls, parking fees, and driver accommodations are not included in the base rate. For overnight trips, you must provide a hotel room for the driver (minimum 3-star property). Common locations where you may need to pay for bus parking include ExtraMile Arena, Albertsons Stadium, and downtown Boise garages. Gratuity is optional but recommended (10–20% of the total rental cost).
• Lead Time and Availability: Booking early gives you access to the best rates and largest selection of vehicles. Last-minute reservations (less than 2 weeks’ notice) may be subject to premium pricing, especially during peak periods or major events like Treefort Music Fest or the Western Idaho Fair.

If you have questions about what’s included in your quote or how to make your trip more affordable, our team is available 24/7 to help. We’ve organized transportation for every type of event, from corporate conferences at the Boise Centre to bachelor parties in Downtown Boise, and we know how to customize a package that fits your budget.