Portland Charter Bus Prices
| Bus Type | Per Hour | Per Day | Per Mile |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 to 56 Passenger Charter Bus | $180 – $500+ | $1,800 – $3,800 | $6.00 – $9.95 |
| 40 to 50 Passenger Charter Bus | $170 – $480+ | $1,700 – $3,565 | $6.00 – $9.95 |
| 25 to 35 Passenger Minibus | $150 – $450+ | $1,610 – $3,465 | $4.00 – $9.95 |
| 20 to 24 Passenger Minibus | $150 – $440+ | $1,610 – $3,365 | $4.00 – $8.95 |
| 15 to 18 Passenger Minibus | $150 – $430+ | $1,520 – $3,255 | $4.00 – $7.95 |
| Entertainer Coach | $315 – $550+ | $3,000 – $5,000+ | $6.00 – $9.95 |
| Yellow School Bus | $145 – $450+ | $1,520 – $3,655 | $6.00 – $9.95 |
| Shuttle Bus | $155 – $450+ | $1,520 – $3,655 | $6.00 – $9.95 |
Portland 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) | $180 - $450+ | $200 - $470+ | $1,000 - $2,900+ |
| Medium Party Bus (20 to 40 Passengers) | $200 - $500+ | $220 - $500+ | $1,200 - $3,500+ |
| Large Party Bus Rental (40 to 50 Passengers) | $250 - $500+ | $240 - $520+ | $1,500 - $3,900+ |
| Mercedes Sprinter Party Bus | $160 - $400+ | $180 - $450+ | $1,000 - $3,900+ |
* 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 971-346-9920 or use our online quote tool.
How Much Does a Charter Bus Rental Cost?
Full-size charter bus rentals start around $185 per hour or $1,900 per day in Portland. These buses can accommodate up to 56 passengers and are perfect for long-distance trips, large events, or multi-day tours. Each charter bus offers comfortable reclining seats, climate control, restrooms, WiFi, power outlets, and spacious luggage bays. They’re popular for school field trips to OMSI, corporate shuttles to the Oregon Convention Center, sports team transportation, and more. Rates may increase during peak seasons like summer or if you require amenities such as onboard restrooms or PA systems. For the most accurate price, use our online quote tool or call 971-346-9920 with your trip details.
How Much Does a Party Bus Rental Cost?
Party bus rentals in Portland typically cost between $190 and $350 per hour, depending on the size and features of the bus. Smaller party buses for 12 to 20 passengers are great for winery tours in Willamette Valley, bachelorette parties in the Pearl District, or birthday celebrations. Larger party buses holding up to 40 people with wraparound seating, LED lighting, premium sound systems, and mini bars are ideal for big nights out or group transfers to concerts at Moda Center. Minimum rental times usually apply, especially on weekends. Get an instant quote online or call 971-346-9920 to check availability and pricing for your preferred date.
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Call Now: 971-346-9920What Factors Influence Charter Bus Rental Pricing?
The cost of your charter bus rental depends on several key factors: distance traveled, duration of the trip, time of year, day of the week, starting and ending locations, type and size of bus, any special amenities requested, tolls or parking fees incurred during the trip, and how far in advance you book. Understanding these variables can help you plan a cost-effective itinerary that fits your budget. Below, we explain each factor in detail so you know exactly what goes into your quote.
Distance and Duration of Your Trip
Most charter bus companies charge based on either mileage or hours, whichever is greater. For local trips within Portland or nearby cities like Beaverton or Gresham, you’ll likely pay an hourly rate with a minimum number of hours required (often 4-6 hours). For longer trips outside the metro area—such as a day trip to Mount Hood or a weekend excursion to Seattle—pricing is usually calculated per mile or per day. The farther and longer you travel, the higher the total cost will be. Overnight trips may also require covering hotel accommodations.
The Time of Year
Bus rental prices fluctuate throughout the year based on demand. Peak season in Oregon generally runs from April to October when schools are in session, wedding season is underway, and tourism peaks. During these months, especially on weekends, you may see higher rates due to limited availability. Major events like Rose Festival, college graduations, or large conventions can also impact pricing. If possible, schedule your trip during the off-season (November to March) or midweek to book lower rates.
The Day of the Week
Weekends are typically more expensive than weekdays for bus rentals in Portland. Fridays and Saturdays tend to have the highest demand for weddings, nightlife shuttles, and private events. If your schedule allows, booking your transportation on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday can result in significant savings. Some companies offer discounted weekday packages for corporate commuters or recurring shuttle services.
Your Starting and Ending Locations
Where your trip begins and ends affects the overall cost because you may need to pay for “deadhead” miles—the distance the bus travels without passengers to reach your pickup point or return to its garage after drop-off. Choosing a company based near your starting location minimizes these extra charges. For example, if your group is departing from downtown Portland, selecting a local provider is more affordable than one based in Salem or Eugene. If your itinerary includes multiple stops across different cities, be sure to include all addresses when requesting a quote so you get an accurate estimate.
Your Bus Type and Size
The type and size of bus you select play a major role in determining the price. Larger vehicles like 56-passenger charter buses cost more than smaller options such as 25-passenger minibuses or 18-passenger sprinter vans. However, consolidating everyone into one big bus may be cheaper per person than renting multiple smaller ones. Specialty vehicles like party buses, entertainer coaches, or ADA-accessible lifts may come at a premium due to their unique features. Consider your group’s headcount, comfort preferences, and luggage needs when choosing the best fit.
Tolls and Parking
While most quotes include fuel, taxes, and standard insurance, they do not cover incidental expenses like tolls, bridge fees, or parking permits incurred during your trip. These are billed separately or paid directly as needed. For instance, if your route takes you across the Hood River Bridge or requires reserved parking at popular attractions like Washington Park or Oregon Zoo, those costs are added to your total. Downtown Portland has metered street parking and public lots with daily rates ranging from $10 to $30 depending on location and event. Plan ahead by researching parking options at each stop and budgeting accordingly.
Booking Timing
When you book your charter bus can impact the price you pay. Reserving several months in advance gives you access to the widest selection of vehicles and often secures lower rates before demand spikes. Last-minute bookings—especially during busy seasons or major events—may result in higher prices or limited availability. As soon as you know your travel dates and group size, lock in your transportation to avoid surcharges and ensure everything is set for your trip.
Cost-Saving Tips to Consider
To get the best value on your Portland bus rental, consider these money-saving strategies: travel during off-peak times, book early to avoid rush pricing, choose the smallest vehicle that comfortably fits your group, share expenses among passengers, stick to a single-day itinerary if possible, and minimize deadhead miles by starting and ending your trip close to home. If you’re flexible on dates or can combine multiple outings into one, let us know—we can customize a package deal that meets your needs and budget.
Book Your Portland Charter Bus Rental Today!
Ready to get started? Our team is available 24/7 to provide instant quotes and help you find the perfect bus for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a school field trip, corporate event shuttle, wedding transportation, sports team travel, or private party, we have the right vehicle at the right price. Call 971-346-9920 now or use our online tool to compare options and reserve your ride in less than a minute. With years of experience serving groups of all sizes across Oregon, Bus Rental Company Portland makes group travel easy, affordable, and stress-free.
Sample Trip Pricing Examples
Below are a few sample pricing examples for common trips in Portland, OR and around Oregon State. Please note that these are estimates and your actual price may vary based on your specific needs and travel dates.
Exploring the Columbia River Gorge
A high school teacher is organizing a field trip for her 11th grade class of 22 students. They plan to leave Portland at 8:00 AM, visit Multnomah Falls and Bonneville Dam, have lunch at Cascade Locks, and return by 4:30 PM. The itinerary covers about 100 miles round-trip with several educational stops. She receives a quote of $1,950 for a 25-passenger minibus, making it approximately $81 per person including fuel and insurance.
Corporate Retreat to Sunriver Resort
A tech company is hosting a three-day offsite retreat for 40 employees at Sunriver Resort near Bend. The charter departs from downtown Portland at 9:00 AM, arrives at the resort by 2:00 PM, and returns two days later. The organizer books a 56-passenger charter bus with WiFi and power outlets to accommodate everyone and their luggage. The total package for two full days plus overnight fees comes to $5,500, with the company covering all transportation costs as part of their employee benefits program.
Wedding Shuttle in Willamette Valley
A couple is getting married at a vineyard in Dundee and wants to provide comfortable transportation for 75 guests staying at hotels in downtown Portland. They schedule continuous shuttle service between the city and venue from 2:00 PM to midnight, ensuring everyone can enjoy the celebration without driving. Their reservation specialist recommends two 38-passenger minibuses running back and forth throughout the event. The quoted price for 10 hours of service with unlimited mileage is $4,200, split between the couple’s families as part of the wedding budget.
Sports Team Travel to Eugene
The University of Portland women’s soccer team needs transportation to an away game against the University of Oregon in Eugene. The team consists of 28 players, 5 coaches, and equipment managers. They depart campus at 7:00 AM, arrive at the stadium by 11:00 AM, play the match, and return the same evening. The athletic department books a 35-passenger charter bus with extra storage for gear. The round-trip fare for the 250-mile journey is $2,800, covered by the university’s athletics fund.
Senior Outing to Oregon Coast Aquarium
An assisted living facility is planning a day trip for 16 residents and 2 staff members to the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport. The group requires an ADA-accessible minibus with a wheelchair lift and priority seating. They leave Tigard at 9:00 AM, spend four hours exploring exhibits, and head back home by 5:00 PM. The cost for an 8-hour rental with accessibility features is $1,600, which includes a small parking fee at the aquarium.
Field Trip in Downtown Portland
A middle school administrator books two 40-passenger minibuses for a field trip to the Portland Art Museum and Oregon Historical Society. The eighth-grade students will tour both museums and have lunch at Director Park before returning to school. The itinerary spans 6 hours entirely within downtown, so they are charged the standard hourly rate of $185 per bus. With 80 students and 6 chaperones, the total transportation cost is $2,220, partially subsidized by a grant from the district’s arts education fund.
Concert Shuttle Service to Edgefield
A local event promoter organizes a shuttle service for concertgoers attending a music festival at McMenamins Edgefield in Troutdale. Anticipating high demand, they arrange for three 20-passenger minibuses to run loops between a designated park-and-ride lot in Gresham and the venue entrance from 3:00 PM to midnight. Each bus completes multiple round-trips throughout the event, providing reliable and convenient transportation for ticket holders. The promoter pays $3,600 for 9 hours of continuous service, recouped through a small surcharge added to each concert ticket.
