Highlights
Stair lifts cost between $2,000 and $20,000 for installation.
The average price range for installing a stair lift is $6,000 to $9,000.
Pricing on stair lifts depends on the model, the seat type, features, and staircase length.
A pro familiar with safety precautions should install your stair lift for liability purposes.
Stairs and steps are both a danger and inconvenience for those in a wheelchair or a limited range of mobility. Stair lifts are a common accessibility upgrade you can add to your home so that moving freely (on every level) isn’t too much of a struggle. Expect to pay between $2,000 and $20,000 to install a chair lift in your home, depending on the type of lift you chose, the features you need, and the length of your staircase.
| Average Range | Minimum Cost | Maximum Cost |
|---|---|---|
| $6,000–$9,000 | $2,000 | $20,000 |
How Much Does it Cost to Install a Stair Lift by Type?
According to HomeAdvisor, installing a chair lift will run you between $2,000 and $20,000, 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, in general) and a few other factors we’ll discuss below.
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.
Curved Stair Lift
Budget between $9,000 to $20,000 for curved stair lifts. These lifts come with a customized rail that will fit your specific staircase, taking any turns or landings into account.
Pre-Owned Stair Lift
Installing a pre-owned chair lift generally costs between $1,000 and $10,000, depending on whether or not you buy a straight or curved model. While opting for a used stair lift can save you upwards of $1,000, you won’t be able to customize it to your exact specifications.
Outdoor Stair Lift
Outdoor stair lift pricing ranges from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the lift's total length. Manufacturers also use more durable materials that can withstand dirt, moisture, and weather.
The 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.
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 doesn’t 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 isn’t in use.
Perch Seat
Costs for perch seat stair lifts usually range from $2,500 to $20,000. These models aren’t 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 isn’t 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 Installation Cost Breakdown
Labor
Stair lift installation costs range between $1,000 and $5,000 on average, not including the price of the lift itself. This price includes basic labor; however, your cost will vary based on the amount of extra work required to complete the project—like if your stairs are steeper than average or if your outdoor stairs are made of less sturdy material like stones.
Get quotes from at least three stair lift installation companies near you for exact pricing.
The Lift
Part of this price also includes the cost of the lift itself, which can vary greatly depending on the type of lift you choose and the total length of track needed for the lift to work correctly. Expect to pay between $2,000 and $20,000 for a new lift and between $1,000 and $10,000 for used lifts.
Other Associated Costs
In addition to the actual price of the stair lift, your installer may need to perform additional work to finish the project, including:
| Additional Work | Cost |
|---|---|
| Wiring installation | $600–$2,200 |
| Drywall repair | $300–$800 |
| Drywall installation | $1,000–$2,700 |
| Upgrade/replace electrical panel | $600–$1,800 |
Stair Lift Cost Factors
A few factors will contribute to the end cost of a stair lift, such as added features and the length or build of your staircase. For example, customized curved tracks generally cost more than standard straight tracks. Most lifts can handle a track length up to 70 feet, but you should plan to pay an extra $50 to $75 per linear foot beyond the standard 14.75 feet.
Typical chair lifts can support 250 to 350 pounds, but the maximum depends on the model. You may pay more if you need one to support a higher weight.
Standard stair lift pricing generally includes:
Metal tracks
Battery-powered seats
Armrests and footrests
Seatbelts
Chair based controls
300-pound weight capacity
Some options that will add to the cost of your stair lift are:
Hinged, folding, or sliding tracks
Swivel or collapsible seating
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
Stair Lift Rental Cost
If you’re looking for a less permanent solution, renting a stair lift for your home usually costs between $300 and $500 per month. That range doesn’t include a deposit, installation, or removal cost. This is a good option if you’re only going to need the lift for a short time, such as after surgery, and 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
Including the base price of the three-month rental, which totals between $2,100 and $3,900 over three months.
Installing a Chair Lift Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro
Unless you have extensive construction experience, it’s best to hire a stair lift installation professional to do the job. 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’s best to go with a pro.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Does insurance or Medicare cover stair lift installation?
Most private health insurance companies do not cover the cost to install a chair lift. However, some Medicare Advantage plans may have options for coverage. Check your policy or call your provider to get confirmation.
Are stair lifts tax deductible?
If you’re 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’re itemizing your deductions.
How much electricity do stair lifts use?
Stair lifts use 20 to 30 watts of electricity per hour of use, which translates into around $10 to $20 per year.
