How Much Does a Stair Lift Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $3,500 - $10,000
A stair lift costs anywhere from $2,000 to $25,000 to install, with the average homeowner spending around $6,000.
The overall price of installing a stair lift depends on the type of lift you choose, the features you need, and the length of your staircase. Stairs and steps are a danger and inconvenience for those in a wheelchair or with a limited range of mobility—but this accessible upgrade can help.
- Average
- $6,000
- Low end
- $2,000
- high end
- $25,000
Stair Lift Cost Breakdown
Like roll-in showers or non-slip flooring, a stair lift is one of the many accessible upgrades you can make in your home. There are a few ways the budget breaks down. In general, the cost of the lift is the largest expense, but things like installation costs, add-on features, and customizations all increase the price.
Stair Lift Type
Stair chair lift prices run between $2,000 and $25,000, with an average cost of around $6,000. The cost depends on whether you want a straight or a curved stair lift (curved models are more expensive than straight models), as well as a few other factors.
| Type of Stair Lift | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-owned | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Straight | $2,000 – $9,000 |
| Outdoor | $4,000 – $25,000 |
| Platform | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Curved | $9,500 – $25,000 |
Pre-Owned Stair Lift
A pre-owned chair lift generally costs between $2,000 and $3,000, though a curved model could cost slightly more. While opting for a used stair lift can save you upwards of $1,000, you will not be able to customize it to your exact specifications.
Straight Stair Lift
Straight stair lifts run between $2,000 and $9,000. These stair lifts come with a standardized straight rail that can fit most straight staircases without customization, which is the main factor in their affordability.
Outdoor Stair Lift
Outdoor stair lift pricing ranges from $4,000 to $25,000, depending on the lift's total length. Manufacturers also use more durable materials that can withstand dirt, moisture, and weather. This upgrade can help make your backyard more accessible.
Curved Stair Lift
Budget between $9,500 to $25,000 for curved stair lifts. These lifts come with a customized rail that will fit your specific staircase, taking any turns or landings into account.
Platform Stair Lift
Platform stair lift pricing typically falls between $5,000 and $20,000. This upgrade makes your home more wheelchair-accessible because you can operate the lift without having to leave your wheelchair. Instead, you maneuver onto a platform that works like the seat in a traditional stair lift.
Cost of a Stair Lift by Seat Type
Stair lifts come with different options for seat types that can have an impact on the cost of the unit.
| Type of Seat | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Collapsible | $2,000 – $20,000 |
| Perch | $2,500 – $20,000 |
| Swivel | $2,500 – $20,000 |
| Angled | $3,000 – $20,000 |
Collapsible Seat
A chair lift with a collapsible seat costs between $2,000 and $20,000. The seat in this chair lift folds up when the unit is not in use, so it does not take up space on the stairs. This is a good model to consider if you have a narrow staircase or want to save space when your lift is not in use.
Perch Seat
Costs for perch seat stair lifts usually range from $2,500 to $20,000. These models are not suited for individuals with significant mobility issues since the user must lean against the seat while partly standing when using the lift; however, perch lift chairs are another space-saving model, as the perch is not as large as some of the other types of chair seats available on the market.
Swivel Seat
Stair lifts with swivel seats average between $2,500 and $20,000. As its name suggests, the seat on this model swivels to make getting on and off the lift easier. While in motion, the seat locks for safety purposes.
Angled Seat
Chair lifts with angled seats usually range between $3,000 and $20,000. The seat on an angled seat chair lift leans back slightly while in use, so the rider feels more secure in the seat. For users with significant mobility issues, this model is a good choice.
Stair Lift Rental Cost
If you are looking for a less permanent solution, renting a stair lift for your home usually costs between $300 and $500 per month. That range does not include a deposit, installation, or removal cost. This is a good option if you are only going to need the lift for a short time, such as after surgery, and it may allow you to get a higher-end model for a fraction of the cost. Most companies do require a minimum three-month commitment. Other costs associated with renting a stair lift include:
Installation: $400–$700
Removal: $300–$600
Deposit (refundable): $500–$1,000
These costs are on top of the base price of the three-month rental, which totals between $2,100 and $3,900 over three months.
Installation Costs
Installation typically adds 15% to 20% to the total cost of your stair lift. In general, you can expect to spend around $1,000 to $5,000 for most stair lift models, but it depends on the work your contractor needs to complete. It may cost more if your contractor must make significant repairs or upgrades.
Drywall Repairs and Installation
Sometimes, you will need to install or repair drywall as part of the installation process. For most homeowners, drywall installation costs between $1,000 and $3,150, and drywall repairs cost $300 to $1,000.
Electrical Wiring or Upgrades
Stair lifts are either battery-operated or connected to an electrical outlet. If you choose a chair that runs off your home’s electricity, you may have to pay for wiring installation and electrical upgrades. Some costs could include:
The cost to upgrade an electrical panel: $1,200–$2,000
The cost to install an outlet: $100–$500
Wiring installation: $600–$2,200
Additional Features
Customizations and add-ons will increase your overall stair lift cost. Most add-ons cost $50 to $200, though custom sensors could add up to $400. Some extra features include:
Design choices for the chair, such as material and color options
Obstruction detection
Powered foot and armrests
Full torso harnesses and easy-grip seat belts
Calling systems, including handheld remote options
Higher weight capacity
Warranties and Maintenance
Most stair lift companies recommend yearly maintenance, unless your lift has an issue that requires immediate repair. An annual inspection costs $100 to $200. Repairs generally cost $100 to $350 per hour. Battery-powered stair lifts may incur higher maintenance costs since they usually require more maintenance.
Despite the cost of repairs, most stair lift companies offer warranty coverage for major components. Sometimes they even include a labor warranty. Warranties can last for a few months or a few years. Check the fine print.
Old Stair Lift Removal
If you are installing a stair lift replacement, your contractor may charge a fee to remove the old stair lift. Typically, this costs $100 to $300. The good news is that you can save on installation costs if your home is already outfitted for a stair lift.
Installing a Chair Lift Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro
Unless you have extensive construction experience, it is best to hire an elevator company near you that specializes in stair lifts. Many things can go wrong during a DIY installation because the job involves electrical work, mounting the unit to the wall, and other complicated elements. In fact, manufacturers only work with qualified professionals for liability purposes. Home accessibility remodeling is a job that requires a lot of safety considerations, so it is best to go with a pro.
How to Save on Stair Lift Costs
Installing a stair lift is only one of the costs to make a home wheelchair accessible. Accessibility remodeling can get pricey, with some homeowners spending up to $60,000. Thankfully, there are some ways you can save. These tips will help you cut down on stair lift installation costs:
Get the lift you need: It may be tempting to splurge for a luxury stair lift from a high-end brand with a ton of add-ons, but choose a reliable mid-tier model and skip the customizations unless you need them.
See if insurance can help: Most standard health insurance plans do not cover the cost of a stair lift, but it depends on the plan. In certain circumstances, auto insurance or worker’s compensation programs may also help cover the cost. Talk to your provider.
Get a pre-owned lift: You can save around $1,000 (and sometimes more) if you purchase a refurbished lift.
Go with a battery: Battery-operated lifts can cost thousands less than a stair lift powered by an electrical outlet. Keep in mind that this option only saves you upfront costs, since battery-powered lifts cost more to maintain.
Look for a grant: Some grants will help cover the cost of stair lift installation. Research local grants online and apply if you qualify. If you are a veteran, look into the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant and the Special Home Adaptations (SHA) Grant through the United States Department of Veteran Affairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most private health insurance companies do not cover the cost to install a chair lift. Some Medicare Advantage plans, however, may have options for coverage. If your need stems from an injury, auto insurance policies or worker’s compensation programs may help depending on the circumstances. Check your policy or call your provider to get confirmation.
If you are installing a chair lift to meet a medical need, then the cost may be tax-deductible. Medical expenses generally are deductible, but only if you are itemizing your deductions. To get the deduction, you will need written documentation from your provider proving the medical need. It is a good idea to work with a tax professional who can show all of your qualifying deductions.
The amount of electricity depends on the model. Most stair lifts use 20 to 30 watts of electricity per hour of use, which translates to around $10 to $20 per year. In comparison, a washing machine uses about 700 watts per hour and a refrigerator uses 100 to 400 watts per hour.