How much does a stair lift cost in 2024?

Rachael Zimlich

Are you thinking about getting a stair lift, but feeling anxious about the price? It's true — the price tag can be intimidating, but consider this: The cost of a stair lift is nothing compared to the potential medical bills and pain from a serious fall. If you're starting to feel more limited in your mobility but you want to keep using your home's stairs, investing in your safety can pay off big-time in the long run.

Here you can find everything you need to know about the cost of installing a stair lift, along with practical tips to help you choose the best stair lift for your financial and mobility needs.

Stair lifts, or chair lifts, are mobility aids for people who find it difficult to use stairs. These devices feature a chair that travels along a rail system secured to your staircase, providing a safe and easy way to move between floors.

Not everyone has the option of single-story living as they age or face mobility issues. If moving isn't an option and your home has unavoidable stairs, a stair lift can help prevent falls while reducing the added challenge of having to navigate steps when you're feeling achy, wobbly or overly tired.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls aren't only dangerous — they're expensive too. The risk of falls increases significantly for people 65 and older, and non-fatal falls in this demographic cost the health care system around $50 billion each year. While public or private health plans might cover some of the medical expenses from falls, the CDC estimates individuals are still left with approximately $12 billion in out-of-pocket costs for fall-related injuries.

Though it might seem ideal for those with mobility issues to relocate to single-floor residences, research shows that 76% of individuals ages 50 and over prefer to stay in their own homes as they age. However, around 60% of these individuals face mobility challenges, and 17% struggle climbing stairs.

Besides aging, several other factors can contribute to difficulties using stairs, including:

  • Anxiety or fear of falling

  • Arthritis

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

  • Heart failure

  • Joint replacements

  • Muscle weakness

  • Neuromuscular and degenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's

  • Obesity

  • Use of home oxygen

  • Vascular diseases and other circulation problems

Several factors affect the overall cost of a stair lift. The price varies widely depending on the brand, type, size and specific features. Considerations include:

  • Type of staircase: The shape and length of your staircase greatly influence the price. A straight staircase costs less than a curved one because of the complexity of installation.

  • Seat specifications: Seat options vary widely, from basic, budget-friendly designs to premium models with extensive cushioning and adjustable features. Higher-end seats often offer enhanced comfort and customization at a higher cost.

  • Weight capacity: Stair lifts designed to hold more weight are usually more expensive.

  • Additional features: Longer battery life, remote controls and advanced safety features can add to the cost.

According to our research, a high-quality stair lift costs between $2,000 and $15,000, depending on these factors.

When calculating the total cost of installing a stair lift, you'll need to consider not only the price of the lift but also additional expenses such as:

  • Power source for the chair

  • Electrical wiring

  • Capacity of the stairwell to fit and support a lift

  • Drywall or support structures

  • Labor costs for installation

  • Permits

  • Flooring modifications

  • Paint or wall finishes after installation

  • Maintenance fees or support services

Purchasing and installing a stair lift can be a substantial investment. Unfortunately, though, it's one that most public and private health plans do not usually cover.

Medicare typically only covers durable mobility devices like wheelchairs or personal lifts prescribed by your doctor. Depending on your income and specific needs, Medicaid and other public programs may help with some costs.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan or private health insurance, you should check with your provider about possible coverage, programs or discounts to offset the cost.

Beyond Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance coverage, some nonprofit organizations and agencies can help finance a stair lift.

If you're a veteran, the Department of Veterans Affairs offers various programs and grants to help pay for home modifications, such as stair lifts. Otherwise, your local area may have agencies that help people with disabilities and may offer funding or grants to cover the cost of home modifications.

Reach out to the following organizations for information and potential funding for stair lifts:

You can also research private funding options such as:

  • Home improvement loans

  • Home equity lines of credit

  • Private loans

  • Fundraising

  • Installment payment plans

If the cost of buying a stair lift is too much to consider, you may also find options to rent one on a short-term basis. However, not all companies offer this service.

You can also consider purchasing a used or refurbished chair lift, but they might not come with a warranty, support services or installation assistance.

Medicare does not cover the cost of a stair lift. Certain Medicaid programs and waivers may cover at least part of the cost of a stair lift, depending on your income and medical conditions.

A stair lift rental may save you money upfront. However, when weighing the pros and cons of renting versus buying, it's essential to consider the monthly leasing costs and how long you'll use your stair lift. Buying may work out to be less costly in the long term.

If installing a stair lift isn't an option, but you still need support while navigating stairs, you might consider the following:

  • Handrails

  • Grab rails

  • Ramps

  • Moving bedrooms to a downstairs area of your home

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