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Charter Bus Prices: How Much Does a Mcallen Bus Rental Cost?
Wondering how much it costs to rent a charter bus in McAllen, Texas? You’re in the right place! McAllen Charter Bus Services specializes in affordable group transportation throughout McAllen, Edinburg, Mission, Pharr, and the entire Rio Grande Valley. Whether you’re planning a wedding at The Venue at Casa de Palmas, a field trip to the International Museum of Art & Science, or a company shuttle to downtown, we help you compare pricing and vehicle options so you find the perfect charter bus for your group’s needs—and your budget.
Instantly get real-time quotes by calling our 24/7 reservation department at 956-448-5133 to speak with a reservation expert. We make booking stress-free with clear, upfront prices, no hidden fees, and professional support every step of the way.
| Vehicle Type | Per Hour* | Per Day* | Per Mile* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 56-Passenger Charter Bus | $197 – $519 | $1,600 – $3,800 | $5.00 – $8.00 |
| 50-Passenger Charter Bus | $190 – $500 | $1,500 – $3,600 | $4.50 – $7.50 |
| 40–45-Passenger Charter Bus | $180 – $480 | $1,500 – $3,500 | $4.50 – $7.50 |
| 35-Passenger Minibus | $180 – $475 | $1,500 – $3,400 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 30-Passenger Minibus | $180 – $475 | $1,500 – $3,400 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 28-Passenger Minibus | $175 – $450 | $1,500 – $3,300 | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| 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 |
| School Bus (-47 pax) | $155 – $450 | $1,520 – $3,655 | $5.00 – $8.95 |
| Entertainer / Sleeper Coach | N/A | $1,900 – $2,500 | $7.00 – $10.50 |
| Mercedes Sprinter Party Bus (10-14) | $160 – $450 | $1,200 – $2,900 | $3.00 – $6.00 |
| Small Party Bus (10-20) | $180 – $470 | $1,200 – $2,900 | $3.00 – $6.00 |
| Mid-Size Party Bus (20-30) | $200 – $500 | $1,200 – $3,500 | $4.00 – $8.00 |
| Large Party Bus (30-50) | $250 – $520 | $1,500 – $3,900 | $4.00 – $8.00 |
*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.
What Affects the Price of a McAllen Charter Bus Rental?
Charter bus rental pricing in McAllen is simple once you know what goes into the cost. The main factors that influence your price include the type of vehicle you choose, the time of year you travel, the length of your trip, your pickup and drop-off locations, and any special amenities you request.
For example, a standard full-size 56 passenger charter bus is usually billed by the hour or day. Minibuses, perfect for smaller groups going to events at the McAllen Performing Arts Center or the McAllen Convention Center, are often more budget-friendly and may be rented by the hour or trip. If you’re planning a multi-day tour through McAllen, the Rio Grande Valley, or South Texas, your price may shift to a daily or mileage rate, especially if you’re making multiple stops.
The season matters, too. Prices are typically highest in spring and early summer when graduations, festivals, and local events are in full swing around McAllen. Likewise, big events like the South Texas International Film Festival or the McAllen Holiday Parade can mean higher demand. We always recommend booking 6 months in advance for peak dates to lock in the best rates!
Trip length is also key: Local shuttles around McAllen or campus tours of South Texas College usually cost less than longer day trips to San Antonio or Corpus Christi. Your pickup and drop-off locations (and any required overnight stays for your driver) can also affect your total.
Don’t forget amenities! Charter buses in our McAllen network come with different features—WiFi, power outlets, TVs with DVD players, onboard restrooms, and ADA accessibility can all be requested. Let your reservation specialist know what you want so we can quote accordingly. And always ask about group discounts if you’re booking more than one bus!
Finally, every quote from McAllen Charter Bus Services includes your driver’s pay. Tolls, parking, and driver hotel (if needed) are extra, but we’ll tell you about these up front so there are never any surprises. Call 956-448-5133—our team is happy to walk you through the details for your unique trip.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Charter Bus for a Week?
Weekly charter bus rentals in McAllen typically range from $5,500 to $15,000+, depending on the type of bus, distance traveled, and itinerary complexity. Full-size charter buses for school trips or sports teams touring South Texas, the Gulf Coast, or even all the way to Mexico often qualify for special multi-day rates. To get an accurate weekly quote, be sure to have your group size, daily mileage, overnight stops, and desired amenities ready when you call 956-448-5133. Our team will build a custom package just for you!
Sample Trip Pricing Examples
Below are a few real-world McAllen area charter bus pricing scenarios to help you plan your budget. Remember, every trip is unique so these are just estimates to help you plan your budget.
An Event Shuttle Service in McAllen
A group planning a festival in McAllen wanted a seamless way to get 50 guests from two hotels in downtown McAllen to the event venue and then out to a scenic dinner at La Plaza Mall. They booked two 25-passenger minibuses for 8 hours to run continuous shuttles between hotels, the event, and dinner—plus late-night returns. Each minibus was priced at $180 per hour, making the base total $2,880 for both buses. They added a 12% gratuity ($346) to thank their drivers for smooth service and flexibility, bringing the total transportation cost to $3,226.
The group chose this shuttle option so guests could enjoy the festival, drinks, and never worry about parking or directions. Buses included drivers, Bluetooth sound systems, and space for decorations.
A Day Trip to South Padre Island
A family from McAllen organized a full-day trip for 40 family members to South Padre Island. They reserved one 56-passenger charter bus with a restroom, DVD player, and undercarriage storage for luggage and coolers. The bus was booked for a 10-hour day at $200 per hour, totaling $2,000. The group included tolls and parking upfront ($50) and budgeted 10% for gratuity ($245), so their total cost was $2,295.
Passengers enjoyed movies on the way, had plenty of space for snacks, and arrived together for a fun day at the beach. No one needed to coordinate carpools or drive home tired.
A Corporate Shuttle for Employees from McAllen to Local Factories
A local manufacturing company needed to provide daily shuttles for 20 employees traveling to various factories around McAllen. They chose an 18-passenger minibus to run a weekday morning and evening loop for one month (20 workdays), with each shuttle covering a 15-mile route. The package rate was $900 per day for 20 days, totaling $18,000. The company added a 10% gratuity ($1,800) for reliable service, bringing the total to $19,800.
The company valued the service for convenience, punctuality, and employee productivity. Buses included WiFi, power outlets, and a dedicated support rep for schedule adjustments.
A School Field Trip to the McAllen Nature Center
An elementary school in McAllen planned a half-day field trip for 55 students, teachers, and chaperones to the McAllen Nature Center. They booked one 56-passenger charter bus and one 24-passenger minibus for a total of 6 hours, with the charter at $185/hr and the minibus at $150/hr. The total for both: $2,160. The school PTA added $216 (10%) for driver gratuity, for a complete cost of $2,376.
Students rode together, watched nature videos en route, and stored lunches in overhead compartments. The group had curbside drop-off, avoiding busy intersections on foot.
