How Much Does a Stair Lift Cost
If you’re having trouble with stairs because of arthritis, obesity, injury recovery, or disability, a stairlift can help you easily move up and down. However, the cost might be a concern. We’ll provide a detailed breakdown of the expenses to help you make an informed decision.
Stairlifts can cost anywhere between $2,000 and $30,000. The final price can depend on various factors such as the type of stairlift, brand, model, and whether you’re renting, buying used, or getting a new one.
Don’t let the cost of stairlifts scare you! In this article, we’ll also share some helpful tips to save money on your stairlift purchase.
What’s the Average Cost of Stair Lift?
In 2023, the wholesale sales of stair-climbing machines were estimated to be around $28.6 million. This shows a high demand for these mobility solutions.
For individual consumers, the cost of purchasing a stair lift can vary based on several factors.
However, on average, a stairlift can cost you around $2,000 and $30,000, depending on the model, features, and installation requirements.
We’ll help you understand how cost varies depending on different factors in the sections below.
Stairlift Costs by Type
Now that you have a rough idea of how much a chair lift costs, let’s look at how the price varies depending on the type of stairlift you choose.
Straight Stairlift
Straight stairlifts are the most common ones as they are equipped with a standardized rail and can be fitted to most standard straight stairs.
A straight stairlift typically costs between $2,000 and $8,000. The final price can depend on the model, the length of the staircase, and any additional safety or upgraded features.
Outdoor Stairlift
An outdoor stairlift typically costs $1,000 to $3,000 more than most indoor units, averaging about $5,000 to $30,000 in total, depending on the length and type.
They tend to be pricey because of the weatherproof materials used. They are made to be corrosion-resistant and can withstand rain, snow, and high winds.
They usually also come with waterproof covers for protection and may also need storage space based on the location.
Wheelchair Platform Stairlift
For wheelchair or medical scooter users, a platform stairlift allows easy movement up and down stairs without having to leave their wheelchair or scooter. The platform functions like the seat of a typical stairlift.
On average, a wheelchair platform stairlift costs between $5,000 and $20,000.
Curved Stairlift
The rail for a curved stairlift is custom-built for staircases with turns, curves, or intermediate landings.
Since it’s custom-built, it costs more than a straight stairlift, generally ranging from $10,500 to $27,000.
The price can vary based on the location, any additional features, and your staircase’s configuration.
Money-Saving Tip: If your staircase has one or more landings, consider installing multiple straight stairlifts instead of a single curved one to save a significant amount of money.
Custom Stairlift
You can customize the stairlift for your convenience. Some even customize the upholstery of the chair to match the aesthetic of their home.
Remember, the more you customize, the higher the cost will be.
The most common customization options are:
Portable or Mobile Stairlift
A portable or mobile stairlift is a battery-powered device that helps individuals with mobility issues carry it with them wherever they go and use it on different types of staircases without any issue.
What’s great is that you don’t need to install them, which saves you from installation costs. However, they need assistance to guide and control them, so they won’t give you complete independence.
They can generally cost around $2,000 and can handle up to 250 pounds easily.
Average Prices of Stairlifts by Power Source
The cost of stairlifts can vary based on the power source, whether they are electric-powered or battery-operated. Let’s break down the average prices.
Electric-powered stairlifts can range from $4,000 to $7,000. While they are low-maintenance, the upfront cost is higher, and they consume more electricity.
If your staircase doesn’t already have an outlet, you’ll need extra wiring work to plug in the stairlift. This can be a hassle when the power goes out.
Most stairlifts are battery-powered and need an electric outlet on the staircase to charge. They typically cost between $3,000 and $5,000
.While you will need to regularly check and maintain the battery, battery-powered stairlifts save on electricity bills, work during power outages, and don’t require additional wiring.
Stairlift Costs by Type of Seat
The type of seat you choose for your stairlift can impact comfort, space utilization, and the final cost. Let’s look at the four main types of seats one by one.
If you have a narrow staircase, investing in a collapsible seat is ideal as it can fold up to save space when not in use.
While this feature can slightly increase the base cost of the stairlift, prices typically range from $3,000 to $10,000.
Swivel seats make it easier and safer for users to get in and out, as they rotate 45 to 90 degrees.
You can choose between manual swivel seats and powered swivel seats, though powered ones will increase the cost.
Stairlifts with powered swivel seats generally start at around $3,500 for straight configurations and can exceed $13,000 for more complex curved setups.
Perch seats are ideal for users who have difficulty bending their knees. With a semi-standing design, the user can lean against the seat.
Due to their special design, perch seats are typically more expensive than standard seats. Prices start around $3,000 for straight stairlifts and can go up to $12,000 or more for custom curved models.
For users with significant mobility issues, angled seats provide extra security and stability by tilting slightly backward when moving up and down stairs.
The cost for angled seats typically starts at $4,000 for straight stairlifts and can go up to $15,000 or more for curved staircases.
Chairlift Costs by Brand
The cost of your chairlift will also depend on the brand you choose. Well-known brands include Acorn, Bruno, Harmar, Handicare, Stannah, Savaria, and AmeriGlide. You can contact these companies to get a price estimate based on your specific needs.
Here are the estimated chairlift costs by brand:
Average Cost of Stairlift Installation
On average, stairlift installation can cost between $1,000 and $5,000 for most models.
The cost of installers’ labor is typically included in the overall price list, as installers generally work for stairlift manufacturers or dealers. If not, you can expect to pay around $75 to $100 per hour for professional labor.
Depending on the scope of your project, there may be additional costs. Here’s a breakdown of relevant installation expenses:
Should You Install a Chair Lift Yourself or Hire a Pro?
If installation isn’t included in the purchase price of the chair lift, which is rare, it can add 15% to 20% to the total cost.
For example, a stairlift priced at $8,000 without installation might require an additional $1,200 to $1,600 for installation.
This might tempt some individuals to save money by installing it themselves, especially if the installation seems straightforward.
However, it’s not recommended to install a chairlift yourself.
A professional installer has the technical expertise and knowledge to ensure a safe and correct installation, giving you peace of mind.
Additionally, hiring a professional provides access to technical support if you encounter issues later on.
Pre-Owned or Used Stairlift Costs
Pre-owned or used stairlifts can be a great option for individuals with mobility issues who can’t afford a new one.
Used straight rail stairlifts typically cost between $2,500 and $4,500, including installation. Since straight stairlifts don’t need customization, they can be easily installed in most homes.
However, curved stairlifts require customization for each staircase, so used curved stairlifts are not available in the market.
When purchasing a pre-owned stairlift, buy from a reliable, authorized dealer or company rather than an individual. Reputable dealers rigorously test, maintain, and refurbish stairlifts before selling them, ensuring safety and reliability for the user.
Stairlift Rental Cost
If you need a stairlift for a short period, like after surgery or due to temporary living conditions, renting is a great option. It’s also handy if you’re unsure how long you’ll need it.
Rental stairlifts are typically available for straight stairs and cost between $150 and $500 per month. It also greatly depends on the dealer, their rental program, and the condition of the stairlift.
Additionally, you can expect to pay an installation fee of $400 to $700, a removal fee of $300 to $600, and any maintenance visit fees.
Additional Considerations and Costs of Stairlifts
There could be additional costs that you might not think of right away, but they can add up and increase the overall expense. Here are some costs as well as factors to consider:
Stairlift Maintenance Cost
Maintenance costs for stairlifts typically range from $100 to $300 per year. During these visits, a technician will inspect the stairlift, lubricate it, and check the battery.
Some companies might require these annual maintenance visits to keep your warranty valid.
Add-Ons
Add-ons aren’t necessary, but they can certainly make using the stairlift easier, safer, and more comfortable. Keep in mind that these add-ons are extra costs on top of the actual purchase price of the stairlift.
Here’s a breakdown of common add-ons:
Financing
Make sure to check with your provider about financing options, as many offer plans to ease the burden of paying a large sum upfront.
With financing, monthly payments for straight models typically start around $59.25.
Grants
You can search for public organizations in your region that help people with mobility issues and limited income get financial assistance for stairlifts.
If you’re a U.S. military veteran, you may also qualify for a stairlift grant.
Warranties
Generally, stairlift manufacturers offer a 1 to 2-year warranty, and some even provide up to a 10-year or lifetime warranty. It all depends on the manufacturer and the specific stairlift model.
It’s always best to ask your manufacturer about the warranty for the stairlift you’re interested in buying. You might also get a labor warranty in addition to the warranty on major parts.
Permits
Some areas require permits for stairlift installations to ensure compliance with local building codes and safety standards.
That’s why it’s important to work with a professional installer and check with your local building authority beforehand.
Insider Tips to Save on Stair Lift Costs
These strategies can help you save money on a stairlift:
Conclusion
Stairlifts can range in price from $2,000 to $30,000, depending on the model, brand, seat type, power source, and type of stairlift.
While DIY installation might seem like a way to save money, we don’t recommend it. Instead, you should hire a professional to ensure the user’s safety and your peace of mind.
For this, you can use our trusted Homebuddy tool, which has completed over 13K projects, to find a reputable, expert stairlift installer near you. You just have to answer a few simple questions related to your project to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
- A stairlift is a mechanical device designed to help individuals with mobility issues navigate stairs. It consists of a chair or platform that moves along a rail mounted to the stairs and is powered by a motor.
- Stairlifts primarily use rechargeable batteries that draw minimal power from home electricity to recharge. On average, they consume about 0.024 kWh or 24 watts per hour, costing approximately $15 per year. This is comparable to the energy usage of a small household appliance.
- Stair lifts can be tax-deductible if they are deemed medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor. The IRS allows deductions for medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. To qualify, the stair lift must be installed for medical reasons, not personal preference.
- Original Medicare does not cover the cost of stairlifts as they are considered home modifications rather than durable medical equipment. Certain Medicare Advantage plans might include coverage for this expense. Medicaid and state-specific programs, like Medicaid Waiver or Home and Community-Based Services, may also provide assistance depending on the state.
- Installing a stair lift typically takes between 2 to 5 hours. Straight stairlifts generally take about 2 to 3 hours, while more complex installations, like those for curved staircases, can take up to 5 hours.
Alternatives to a stairlift include handrails and grab rails for additional support, access ramps for wheelchairs and scooters, home elevators for greater flexibility, and stair climbers. These options provide varying levels of assistance and can be tailored to meet specific mobility needs.
