Young woman converts school bus into livable mobile home

Dani Danielion wanted freedom from rising rent costs. To tackle this problem, she purchased a retired yellow school bus and spent over three years converting it into a fully livable mobile home. Her journey, documented on TikTok, has since gone viral. One video showcasing the transformation has earned 11.4 million views and 1.5 million likes.

Dani Danielion converts school bus to livable mobile home

Danielion found the bus on Facebook Marketplace after months of searching, she told PEOPLE. She selected a short model with a straight roof and fewer than 200,000 miles. These features made the renovation easier and the vehicle more practical for traveling. Danielion told the outlet her goal was create to a comfortable, rent-free home that could move with her.

A Solo Build With Strategic Help

The renovation took three and a half years and cost between $25,000 and $35,000, including the bus itself. Danielion completed roughly 85% of the work on her own.

@dani.danielion/TikTok

For tasks outside her expertise, she hired occasional help. A friend assisted with early demolition, and a handyman found through Craigslist helped remove seats and install solar panels.

Dani Danielion’s new life on the road

Since completing the build in March 2025, Danielion has lived full-time in the bus. She parks at rest stops, campgrounds, and retail lots, picking up odd jobs while searching for remote work. Her lifestyle prioritizes flexibility, minimalism, and self-sufficiency.

Danielion says the bus is better equipped for cooler climates, so she relocates seasonally to stay comfortable. She manages her own water supply and waste disposal, adapting to the challenges of mobile living.

Viral Impact and Future Plans

Danielion documented the entire process on TikTok, where her story resonated with millions. Her success reflects growing interest in alternative housing and nomadic lifestyles, especially among young adults seeking financial freedom.

While she acknowledges the lifestyle isn’t for everyone, Danielion’s journey highlights the possibilities of creative problem-solving and self-directed learning. Her mobile home stands as a testament to resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of building a life on your own terms.