Thinking of Moving Into a School Bus Full-Time? Here’s What You Need to Know

Converting a shuttle bus into a mobile home can be confusing, time-consuming, and even costly. Before diving into 24/7 skoolie life (the term for school buses converted into tiny homes), here are key points to consider.

Overall Cost

Expenses typically range between $9,000 and $30,000, depending on:

• Bus size
• Materials and tech upgrades
• Home comforts and safety measures
• Professional labor costs

Costs can exceed this range, so setting a detailed budget is critical. Include funds for surprise expenses to avoid overspending due to poor planning.

Skoolie Conversion Breakdown

Transforming a bus into a tiny home requires dedication. Below is a step-by-step guide for any bus type:

1. The Bus

A school bus in working condition costs $3,500 to $11,000. Additional factors include:

• Vehicle age, condition, and pre-existing modifications
• State/local taxes (e.g., 8.5% tax on a $10,000 bus = $850)

2. Registration and Insurance

• Title/registration: $40–$250 annually
• Insurance: $1,000–$3,000 annually (varies by usage)

3. Demolition and Renovation

Remove old panels, flooring, and fixtures. Costs include:

• DIY demolition: Free (if self-done)
• Professional demolition: $2–$10/sq. ft. (e.g., $2,000–$4,000 for a short bus)
• Junk removal: $200–$500

4. Construction, Electrical, and Repairs

Image courtesy of Gustavo Fring on Pexels.

• Vehicle repairs: $50–$10,000+
• Electrical wiring: $150–$600
• Generator/solar panels: $1,000–$23,000+
• Insulation, flooring, walls: $0.75–$5/sq. ft.

5. Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling

• Plumbing installation: $300–$1,850
• Propane fuel line: $200–$800
• Heating/cooling systems: $80–$1,500

6. Kitchen and Bathroom

• Shower stall: $300–$1,200
• Toilet: $100–$2,000
• Appliances (fridge, stove, washer/dryer): $75–$1,800

7. Furnishings, Lighting, and Decor

Courtesy Pottery Barn.

• Bed/mattress: $400–$2,000
• Seating/decor: $20–$600
• Lighting fixtures: $40–$250
• Paint/art: $10–$100

Final Thoughts

Converting a school bus into a home requires meticulous planning and budgeting. Prioritize safety, functionality, and comfort while staying flexible for unexpected costs. With the right preparation, your skoolie can become a cozy, adventurous living space.