As homeownership prices continue to spiral out of reach for many, a vibrant community of individuals is embracing a unique solution: converting old school buses into mobile homes. This trend, known as skoolie living, is gaining momentum, particularly among younger generations seeking affordable alternatives to traditional housing.
A Creative Escape From Rising Costs
With the average home price in the United States reaching a staggering $522,200 as of May 2025, many members of Generation Z and millennials are compelled to rethink their living arrangements. As they grapple with limited access to affordable housing, the concept of transforming decommissioned school buses into homes has emerged as a practical and inventive solution. Social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Reddit have played a pivotal role in popularising this lifestyle, showcasing the DIY spirit of those who have opted for the open road over a mortgage.
Brittany Miller, a self-styled “skoolie” enthusiast, has shared her journey of creating a vibrant living space from a yellow bus. “It’s not just about saving money; it’s about finding freedom and simplicity in life,” she explains. This sentiment resonates deeply with many who are drawn to the skoolie lifestyle, which promises both mobility and a minimalist approach to living.
The Transformation Journey
For those venturing into the world of skoolies, the journey often begins with acquiring a bus. For Jessica Krupski and Daryl O’Brien, both 39, the decision to purchase a school bus stemmed from their desire to explore every national park in the U.S. After considering various options, they secured a bus for $4,500 through Facebook Marketplace, attracted by its durability and lower mileage.
On the other hand, Alyssa Peterson, a 30-year-old travel nurse, took a leap of faith, flying from South Dakota to San Diego with $8,000 in hand to pick up her future home. Despite the excitement, the reality of transforming a bus into a comfortable living space is often far more complex than it appears online.
“We tore everything out,” shares Krupski, reflecting on the extensive gutting process that each bus undergoes before it can be transformed. This includes removing seats, flooring, and insulation—tasks that require significant effort and often, a steep learning curve.
Learning Through Challenges
While some skoolie owners come equipped with skills in plumbing or electrical engineering, many do not. O’Brien, who has a background in engineering, relied heavily on resources like “The DIY Skoolie Guide” as well as YouTube tutorials to navigate the renovation process. This reliance on community knowledge highlights the collaborative spirit of the skoolie movement.
Jess Elena and Jake Gomez, both 25, faced their own hurdles when their first bus purchase broke down shortly after acquisition. Navigating the complexities of bus life has taught them invaluable lessons about resilience and problem-solving. “Every step on a bus project is equivalent to a technical profession,” Elena remarks, stressing the importance of thorough research and careful planning to avoid costly mistakes.
After four and a half years of hard work, the couple finally moved into their bus, only to confront new challenges. From ensuring stability during travel to finding suitable parking, the realities of skoolie life reveal a demanding lifestyle that contrasts sharply with its idealised online portrayal.
The Reality of Mobile Living
For many, the dream of skoolie living can sometimes turn into a struggle for practicality. Peterson eventually found that her career as a travel nurse limited her ability to park legally and conveniently, leading her to transition to a fifth-wheel trailer. “If I had a different career and a more vagabond lifestyle, it might’ve worked, but I had to be in specific places at specific times,” she explains.
Despite the challenges, those who have embraced skoolie life often reflect on their experiences with fondness. “I learned so much about myself living in the bus for those two years,” Peterson recalls, underscoring the personal growth that can accompany such a transformative journey.
Why it Matters
The skoolie trend is more than just a quirky alternative to traditional living; it represents a significant shift in how younger generations view homeownership and stability. As skyrocketing housing costs push individuals to seek unconventional solutions, skoolie living embodies a spirit of independence and creativity. It challenges societal norms surrounding homeownership and encourages a re-evaluation of what it means to live freely in today’s world—a movement that could inspire many to explore new possibilities in the face of economic adversity.
