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

Coach bus rentals in Billings generally cost between $170 and $375 per hour, with daily rates ranging from $2,200 to $3,800 depending on the size, model year, and amenities of the bus. For example, a 56-passenger MCI J4500 or Van Hool CX45 will be more expensive than a 40-passenger school bus or a 25-passenger minibus. If you’re planning a multi-day trip to Glacier National Park, Missoula, Bozeman, or even out-of-state destinations like Yellowstone or Mount Rushmore, you can expect to pay between $2,400 and $3,600 per day plus the cost of lodging for your driver. Local trips within Billings city limits—such as shuttles between MetraPark, downtown hotels, and Billings Logan International Airport—are usually billed by the hour with a minimum of 4-5 hours per reservation.

Several key factors will determine the final price of your coach bus rental:

• Trip Duration: The longer you need the bus, the more it will cost. Most companies charge by the hour for local trips (with a 4- or 5-hour minimum), by the day for longer excursions, or by the mile for point-to-point charters outside the Billings area. For example, a 4-hour wedding shuttle between ZooMontana and downtown will be much cheaper than a 3-day tour to Glacier National Park.
• Distance Traveled: Your total mileage affects both fuel costs and driver labor. Trips that stay within Yellowstone County (Billings, Laurel, Shepherd) are less expensive than those going to Bozeman, Helena, Great Falls, or out of state. Be sure to provide exact addresses for all pickup and drop-off locations when requesting a quote.
• Type of Bus: Full-size motorcoaches (47-56 passengers) are the most expensive option but offer the most amenities: restrooms, WiFi, power outlets, luggage bays, and reclining seats. Mini buses (20-35 passengers) are more affordable but have fewer features. School buses are the cheapest but only suitable for short trips in mild weather. Premium brands like Prevost and Van Hool cost more than basic models from Blue Bird or Thomas Built.
• Time of Year: Charter bus demand in Montana peaks during the summer (June-August) due to wedding season, tourism, and school breaks. Rates are also higher during major events like Magic City Blues Festival, MontanaFair, MSU football games, and hunting season openers. You’ll get the best deals by booking at least 3-6 months in advance or traveling during the off-season (November-March).
• Day of the Week: Weekend rentals (Friday-Sunday) are more expensive than weekday trips because that’s when most people want to travel. If you have flexibility, schedule your charter for a Monday-Thursday to save money.
• Additional Fees: Don’t forget to budget for tolls (rare in Montana), parking permits (especially at MetraPark, Alberta Bair Theater, or downtown garages), hotel rooms for drivers on overnight trips, and gratuity (10-20% is standard). Some companies charge extra for cleaning if your group leaves trash behind, or for amenities like DVD players and PA systems.
• Lead Time: The earlier you book, the better your rate will be. Last-minute reservations (less than 2 weeks’ notice) may incur rush fees or limited availability, especially during peak season. Conversely, booking 6-12 months ahead locks in current prices and guarantees you get the exact bus you want.

To get an exact quote tailored to your itinerary, call Billings Coach Bus Service at 406-503-0970 or fill out our online form with as much detail as possible. We’ll respond within minutes with a competitive price and answer any questions you have about the process.