How Much Do Stair or Chair Lifts Cost?

Stair Lift Costs by Type

Chair lift prices range from $2,000 to $20,000, with the biggest cost factor being the length and shape of your stairs. Straight styles cost $2,000 to $8,000, while curved ones run $9,500 to $20,000. The total also depends on:

• Where you want to install the motorized chair

• Comfort and weight capacity

• Whether you want to power it via battery or your home’s electrical system

Straight Stair Lifts

A stair lift for a home with a straight staircase and standard-height ceilings typically costs between $2,000 and $8,000. This is the most common type of stair lift. Your final cost will depend on the length of your staircase, the stair lift model you choose, and any upgrade options you choose to add.

Curved Stair Lifts

Curved stair lifts are the most expensive type, costing between $9,500 and $20,000. This price range runs more than straight-track models because the installer must customize the track to fit the unique configuration of the curved staircase. If your staircase has one or more landings, you could save thousands by opting to install multiple straight stair lifts instead of one curved lift.

Outdoor

Outdoor stair lifts for patio steps, decks, and docks range in price from $4,000 to $12,000, depending on the type and total length. This type uses more expensive materials that can get wet or dirty without losing function and may require additional protective seat covers or storage space.

Platform

A platform stair lift can cost $5,000 to $20,000. These enable wheelchair users to maneuver up and down staircases without getting out of their wheelchairs. The wheelchair can roll onto a size-appropriate platform that operates like the seat component of a typical stair lift.

New vs. Pre-Owned Stair Lift Costs

Installing a lightly used and refurbished stair lift typically ranges from $2,200 to $3,000, with models often available at a savings of at least $1,000 off the price of a new product. If buying pre-owned, you may not be able to get custom sizing, especially for a curved staircase. Be sure to buy from a reputable company that rigorously tests each unit for safe working condition before reselling.

Stair Lift Rental Cost

Renting a stair lift costs $300 to $500 per month, not including installation, removal, or a deposit. This way, you may be able to get a higher-end model for a lower price than buying it outright.

This option is ideal if you’ll only need the unit for a short period, like during recovery from a joint replacement surgery or to accommodate a user during a temporary living situation. Keep in mind that most rental companies charge a minimum three-month term.

Stair Lift Customization and Add-On Costs

A variety of customization options for stair lifts adds convenience for an extra cost. Customization can be as simple as lengthening the track up to 70 feet, which costs an extra $50 to $75 per linear foot beyond the standard 14-3/4 feet. Typical chair lifts can support 250 to 350 pounds, but you may pay up to $20,000 for a heavy-duty lift that supports more than 400 pounds.

Other common upgrade options include:

• Power swivel seats for users with limited mobility or strength in the arms, hands, or legs

• Power or manual folding rails that can be folded out of the way when not in use

• Power footrests that can fold up at the push of a button

• Upholstery upgrades to match your home décor

These features can vary in cost depending on your lift model, but your local dealer may have access to manufacturer discounts or specials that can help you keep costs as low as possible.

Other Stair Lift Installation Cost Factors

Many factors can impact the cost of installing a stair lift in your home. It’s helpful to know these factors when budgeting, so consider the following when shopping for a stair lift.

Brand

The brand and model you choose will significantly impact how much you pay.

Most chair lift manufacturers sell options for straight and curved staircases. You’ll need to contact these popular brands to get a quote and to ensure that they create a lift that will meet your needs:

• Acorn stair lift cost: $2,500–$5,500

• Bruno stair lift cost: $3,000–$6,000 

• Stannah stair lift cost: $3,000–$6,000

• AmeriGlide stair lift cost: $2,000–$5,000

Installation and Labor

Stair lift installation costs $1,000 to $5,000 for most models. You may pay more if you have a steeper-than-average incline or outdoor steps made of stone or earth. Labor is typically included in the installation price since most installers work for stair lift dealers or manufacturers. If you decide to hire a third-party installer, expect to pay $75 to $100 per hour for professional labor.

Sometimes, your installer must do additional work to finish the project. In that case, you may need these extra services:

• Cost to repair drywall: $300 to $800

• Price to build a wall: $1,000 to $2,700

• Cost to upgrade or replace an electrical panel: $600 to $1,800

• Price to install electrical wiring: $600 to $2,200

Battery-Powered vs. Hardwired

Stair lifts can either be battery-powered or hardwired to an electrical outlet. Each type has its pros and cons.

Battery-operated stair lifts cost $3,000 to $5,000 and help save on electricity costs. They’re relatively easy to install since they don’t require any additional wiring. They will also charge when not in use and can work during a power outage. However, they require regular battery health checks and maintenance to ensure they function properly.

Electric-powered stair lifts cost $4,000 to $7,000. These need to be plugged into an outlet, so you may need to pay for extra wiring work if there isn’t already an outlet in your stairwell. They also require a battery backup to work during power outages. Though they cost more upfront and use more electricity to run, they don’t require nearly as much maintenance.

DIY Stair Lift Installation vs. Hire a Pro

Most homeowners should hire a professional for this job unless they have lots of experience with complicated, risky home improvement projects. However, we strongly recommend hiring a professional, as stair lifts are complex pieces of assistive technology designed to be easy to use. Installers receive technical training to ensure user safety, and often need to install additional wiring so the lift can plug in near the stairwell.

For liability purposes, manufacturers may exclusively work with qualified installers. Before shopping for stair lift installers near you, see if you can try out the products in person. This will help you choose the one that meets your needs.

FAQs

How much does a home elevator cost?

Home elevator installation costs $2,000 to $60,000, depending on the type.

Does Medicare pay for stair lifts?

Medicare usually doesn’t cover the cost of a stair lift, but some Medicare Advantage plans might. This information changes by the year, so be sure to get the most updated information.

Does insurance cover stair lifts?

Most private health insurance plans do not cover the installation of stair lifts. Be sure to review your current plan or contact your provider for specific information pertaining to your plan.

Are stair lifts tax deductible?

Stair lifts may be tax deductible if you are installing one to meet a current medical need. This only applies if you are itemizing deductions.

Do stair lifts use a lot of electricity?

Stair lifts use very little electricity, about 20 to 30 watts per hour of use. This translates into an energy cost of $10 to $20 per year.

Can you add a stair lift to any staircase?

You can add a stair lift to just about any staircase. However, some lifts need to be custom-built to accommodate the curves, turns, and landings found on staircases in certain homes.

How much does it cost to remodel for disability accommodation?

The cost to remodel for disability accessibility is typically anywhere from $778 to $8,122, though costs can be much lower or higher depending on the home modifications being made and the types of disabilities being accommodated. For example, if modifications need to be made to a staircase to accommodate a stair lift, the cost to remodel a staircase is typically $960 to $3,284.