Charter Bus Prices in Ann Arbor
Curious about Ann Arbor charter bus prices? You’re not alone! “How much does it cost to rent a charter bus?” is one of the most common questions we get at Charter Bus Rental Ann Arbor—and for good reason. Budgeting for group transportation in Ann Arbor can be tricky if you don’t know what to expect. Luckily, we’ve helped everyone from University of Michigan alumni to Detroit wedding planners figure out exactly what goes into the cost of a bus rental, and we’re happy to break it all down for you.
Below, you’ll find real 2024–2025 pricing averages, sample trip quotes, and a full breakdown of every factor that can impact your final rate. If you still have questions or want an exact quote for your next trip, our team is available 24/7 at 734-773-0500. We serve all of Washtenaw County, Southeast Michigan, and beyond!
| Vehicle Type | Per Hour* | Per Day* | Per Mile* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 56-Passenger Coach Bus | $197 – $519 | $1,600 – $3,800 | $5.00 – $8.00 |
| 25-Passenger Minibus | $165 – $428 | $1,300 – $3,200 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 20-Passenger Minibus | $157 – $414 | $1,300 – $3,100 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 18-Passenger Minibus | $145 – $404 | $1,300 – $3,000 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
*Prices vary and fluctuate with fuel costs, holidays, and availability. Booking early usually secures the lowest rate. For exact pricing, please call our reservations team.
How Much Does a Charter Bus Rental Cost in Ann Arbor?
Ann Arbor charter bus rentals typically cost anywhere from $150 per hour to $3,500 per day depending on the vehicle size, trip duration, mileage, and time of year. Smaller vehicles like 18-passenger minibus rentals start around $1,200–$2,500 per day, while a full-size 56-passenger charter bus rental ranges from $3,000–$4,500+ per day for local or regional trips. Buses are usually billed by the hour, by the day, or by the mile—whichever yields the highest total—plus additional fees for tolls, parking, driver lodging, and gratuity.
The best way to get an accurate estimate is to call Charter Bus Rental Ann Arbor at 734-773-0500 with your exact trip details. Our team is available 24/7 to provide an instant, all-inclusive quote tailored to your itinerary. We proudly serve Ann Arbor and the entire Midwest region, including Detroit, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Chicago, Toledo, and more.
What Factors Influence Charter Bus Rental Pricing in Ann Arbor?
Several key factors determine the final cost of your Ann Arbor charter bus rental:
- Vehicle Size and Type: Larger buses (50–56 passengers) cost more than smaller minibuses (18–35 passengers). Specialty vehicles like party buses or entertainer coaches may carry premium rates.
- Trip Duration and Distance: Longer trips with more miles and days on the road increase the total price. Local transfers may be billed hourly, while out-of-town trips are charged by the mile or day.
- Time of Year: Peak season in Ann Arbor runs from spring through fall, especially during University of Michigan events, football games, and wedding season. Rates are higher when demand is greatest.
- Pickup Location: If your trip starts outside a major city like Ann Arbor or Detroit, you may incur additional “deadhead” fees to cover the bus traveling empty to your pickup point.
- Itinerary Complexity: Multiple stops, layovers, or custom routing can add to the base cost.
- Additional Expenses: Tolls, parking fees, driver lodging (for multi-day trips), and a recommended 10–20% driver gratuity are typically not included in the base quote.
- Amenities: Buses with premium amenities—such as onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, leather seats, or restroom facilities—may cost more than standard models.
Sample Trip Pricing Examples
To help you budget for your next event, here are some real-world pricing examples for popular charter bus routes in and around Ann Arbor. These estimates include the bus, driver, fuel, and standard amenities (Wi-Fi, power outlets, A/C, reclining seats). Additional expenses like tolls, parking, and driver gratuity are not included.
Example #1
Trip details: Local shuttle loop between University of Michigan Central Campus (State Street), North Campus (Pierpont Commons), and Michigan Medicine (E. Medical Center Drive).
Vehicle: 35-passenger minibus
Duration: 8 hours
Season: Fall semester
Price: $2,000 ($250/hour)
This is typical for university department events, student organization outings, or hospital staff shuttles.
Example #2
Trip details: One-way transfer from downtown Ann Arbor (hotel or campus pickup) to Detroit Metro Airport (McNamara or Evans Terminal)
Vehicle: 20-passenger minibus
Distance: 25 miles
Price: $1,200 flat rate
Perfect for corporate groups, sports teams, or wedding guests catching a flight.
Example #3
Trip details: Round-trip charter for fans attending a U-M vs. MSU game. Depart Ann Arbor Saturday morning, return after the game.
Vehicle: 56-passenger charter bus
Distance: 70 miles each way
Price: $3,500 ($1,750 per leg)
Popular with alumni groups, student organizations, and athletic boosters.
Example #4
Trip details: Guest shuttles running continuously between hotel blocks in downtown Ann Arbor and the wedding venue in Dexter. 6-hour service.
Vehicle: 25-passenger minibus
Price: $2,400 ($400/hour)
Essential for rural venue accessibility and guest safety.
Example #5
Trip details: Ann Arbor company outing to downtown Chicago. Depart Friday morning, return Sunday evening. Includes local Chicago transfers.
Vehicle: 50-passenger charter bus
Distance: 240 miles each way
Duration: 3 days
Price: $8,000 ($2,666/day)
Includes driver hotel and tolls. Common for conferences and trade shows.
Example #6
Trip details: One-day field trip from Ann Arbor elementary school to The Henry Ford Museum. Depart 8 a.m., return by 3 p.m.
Vehicle: 44-passenger school bus
Distance: 38 miles each way
Price: $1,800
Budget-friendly option for educational outings.
Get live availability & our best deals by calling or using our online quote tool. We're here 24/7/365 and would love to earn your business!