People often ask, “how much does a stair lift cost?” The answer is, it depends. There are several factors that determine the price of a stair lift, including the make and model of the stair lift, whether the stairway is straight or curved, whether you buy a new or used unit, and where you purchase the unit from.
Stair Lifts for Straight vs. Curved Staircases
There are two types of stair lifts that are offered in the market. The most common type is a straight stair lift, which comes with a standardized straight rail that can fit most straight staircases. If you have a set of straight stairs with no bends or curves, you will purchase a straight stair lift.The other option is a curved stair lift, which has a rail that is custom built for staircases that have curves, turns, or intermediate landings. Both types of stair lifts can be installed both indoors and outdoors. If you are looking for a stair lift for a straight staircase with no turns, you are going to pay less than if you need a stair lift for a curved staircase or a straight staircase with a landing.
Learn more about the differences and similarities between straight and curved stairlifts
Straight Stair Lift Pricing:
The cost of a stair lift for a straight staircase typically ranges between $2,200-$8,500 (new or used). The final price that you pay will depend on the length of the staircase, model selected, any added options, such as a folding rail or power swivel seat. We also offer monthly finance low-payment options starting at $56.70/month, for qualified buyers.
Curved Stair Lift Pricing:
If you have a curved staircase or a straight staircase with an intermediate landing, the stair lift track will need to be custom-made to fit your staircase. As a result, the cost will be significantly higher. Pricing for a curved stair lift starts at $11,300 and ranges upward from there, depending on location, the configuration of your staircase and options that may be added to improve comfort for the user or match the design of a home.
Heavy-Duty and Outdoor Stairlift Pricing
If you struggle with obesity, you may need a stair lift that is has a higher weight capacity. Because they require more parts and labor for for the lift to be installed, the cost is more. However, it is worth the additional cost to ensure the lift will provide a safe and secure ride from the bottom landing of the stairs to the upper landing and vice versa. Base model heavy duty lifts can start around $6,000.
Outdoor stair lifts must be made using weatherproof materials, which is when they tend to be a $1,000-$2,000 more than indoor models on average. Outdoor lifts may also require a cover or storage space
New vs. Certified Pre-Owned Stair Lifts
A pre-owned straight rail unit will cost around $2,200-$3,000+ installed. This can vary based on the make, model, options and condition of the stair lift. Choosing a used stair lift rather new a new option can save you up to $1,000.
If you have a curved staircase, you may have difficulty finding a pre-owned stair lift since the track must be custom-made for each individual staircase. Lifeway does not offer used curved stairlifts.
Rental Stair Lifts
If your needs are temporary, some providers have rental options for straight rail stair lifts. The Lifeway Mobility rental program includes installation and removal, a monthly rental fee, and service is provided if needed for the length of the rental period. A rental stair lift is a perfect option for those who know that they'll only need a lift for a few months after a surgery. It's also a great option when there are temporary living situations and the length of time that the lift will be needed is unknown.
Affordable Monthly Payment Plans (Financing)
If you’d like to purchase new stair lift but paying the entire cost upfront is not within your budget, some providers offer monthly payment options for qualified buyers. Lifeway Mobility currently offers a Bruno Elan straight stair lift for as low as $56.70/month and a Bruno Elite for as low as $78/month.
Convenience & Customized Options
Convenience upgrade options on a stair lift may not be necessarily needed, but can make your trip up and down the steps just a little bit easier. Some of the most common upgrade options available for stair lifts are:
- Power Swivel Seat
- Power or Manual Folding Rail
- Power Folding Footrest
- Larger Seat Pad or Footrest
- Rail Park Options (curved stair lifts only)
If you are working with a quality local dealer, they can work with you to determine how much these features may add to the cost as it can vary by stair lift type and/or model. They may have access to manufacturer discounts or specials to help reduce the price. The more you customize your stair lift, the higher the price.
You can also choose to upgrade the upholstery of your chair to better match the design and décor of your home, like the one pictured below (black upholstery).
Purchasing a Stair Lift Through a Dealer vs. Online
You may be able to find new stair lifts listed online for considerably less than the prices listed here. However, those prices typically do not include the cost of delivery,installation, or warranty coverage, all of which are included in most cases when sold by reputable dealers.
Some online stair lift providers market do-it-yourself installation as a way to save money. However, most quality stair lift manufacturers such as Bruno, Handicare, and Harmar do not recommend DIY installation and sell only through certified dealers. Although many stair lifts are simple in operation, the installation is a thorough and sensitive practice.
Lifeway Mobility's technicians are professionally trained & certified, giving us the ability to ensure that all installation and service jobs are of the highest quality. When finished with the installation of a stair lift, our technicians take it one step further by taking the time to clean the staircase and then providing a thorough demonstration of how to safely use and operate the lift. Additionally, Lifeway is both a licensed and insured stair lift company – something the larger companies and internet dealers can’t say.
While it is a cost-saving measure, self-installation can put you, your family, or your home in harm’s way. The Accessibility Equipment Manufacturers Association (AEMA) provides the most knowledgeable information on stairlifts and residential elevators. Read why it strongly advises against a self-install of any stairlift or residential elevator product. Your safety could be at risk!
In addition, it can be difficult to find reliable service for stair lifts purchased online or from manufacturers that advertise on late-night TV. Local dealers, such as Lifeway, provide ongoing service for all stair lifts that are installed. We also provide the option of test riding a stair lift before deciding to make a purchase, as we have 
showrooms in the following areas:
- Boston
- Chicagoland
- Connecticut
- Denver
- Los Angeles
- Minneapolis
- Pittsburgh
- San Francisco Bay Area
Conclusion
When compared to the cost of alternatives, such as moving to a single-story home, or an senior living facility, a stair lift can be one of the most cost effective solutions for those that can no longer navigate the stairs. If you were to move into a senior living facility, you would pay between $1,500-$4,000/month and assisted living facilities are even more expensive, ranging between $3,500-$10,500/month, according to assistedliving.org. At that rate, a stair lift would have already paid for itself after only a few months! With the addition of a stair lift, you'll also gain the benefit of being able to stay in the home and community that you have grown to know and love.
Please contact us to set-up your FREE in-home evaluation to get an exact quote and better determine if a stair lift is the best option for you or your loved ones.
Additional Stair Lift Resources:
- Lifeway Mobility Stairlift Guide
- Compare Stair Lifts
- Stair Lift Reviews
