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How much does a stair lift cost in 2024?

Rachael Zimlich and Zia Sherrell
Updated
How much does a stair lift cost in 2024?

If conquering the stairs is becoming a Herculean task, the idea of installing a stair lift may have crossed your mind. But maybe the cost of a stair lift appears too steep a climb for your budget. It's a fair consideration.

While the price might seem high at first glance, consider this: it's a small price to pay compared to the financial and physical toll of a nasty fall.

As Brittany Ferri, an occupational therapist with the National Council on Aging, explains, "Stair lifts help people stay independent and safely move between different floors in the home. They allow people to continue living in their homes comfortably and safely as their mobility needs change."

Furthermore, Christopher Norman, geriatric nurse practitioner and holistic nurse, adds, "Using a stair lift can greatly improve quality of life by providing easy and secure access throughout the home. "A stair lift is a valuable investment in maintaining independence, fostering a sense of safety and reducing the emotional challenges associated with limited mobility."

Evidently, stair lifts are beneficial. But what does the investment really look like? Continue reading as we explore the cost of installing a stair lift and provide practical tips and advice to help you choose the best stair lift for your financial and mobility needs. You can also check out our recommendations for the best stair lifts available at a range of budgets.

Stair lifts, also known as chair lifts, are mobility devices designed for people who struggle with using the stairs.

They consist of a chair mounted on a rail system attached to your staircase, offering a safe and effortless way to transition between different levels of your home.

Ferri explains, "There are straight stair lifts for straight staircases and curved stair lifts for staircases with bends or landings. There are also outdoor stair lifts made to withstand weather conditions. The stair lift you need to buy will depend on your staircase location and type."

Many people don't have the option of moving to a single-story home as they age or deal with mobility issues. Although it might seem like the ideal solution, research shows that almost 8 in 10 individuals ages 50 and over prefer to stay in their own homes as they age. However, around 6 in 10 of these individuals face mobility challenges and nearly 2 in 10 struggle to climb stairs. This is where stair lifts come into play. "Stair lifts are beneficial to those who struggle to get up and down the stairs and need more support than a cane or other mobility aids can offer," says Ferri.

Mobility challenges significantly increase the risk of falls, which are not only physically dangerous but also financially burdensome. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are a significant concern for people 65 and older. The costs associated with non-fatal falls in this demographic amount to approximately $50 billion annually. While public or private health plans might cover some of these expenses, the CDC estimates that individuals still bear around $12 billion in out-of-pocket costs for fall-related injuries. And that doesn't take into account the emotional and mental cost of experiencing a severe physical injury related to a fall within your home.

If moving isn't possible or desirable and your home has unavoidable stairs, a stair lift can help prevent falls and reduce the difficulty of getting to your second floor when you're achy, unsteady or tired.

"The cost of a stair lift varies depending on the type, brand, features and how complex it is to install," says Norman. Straight stair lifts generally range from $2,000 to $5,000. Due to the need for customization, curved stair lifts may cost between $10,000 and $15,000," he adds.

Several other factors also affect the overall cost of a stair lift, such as the brand, type, size and specific features. Considerations include:

  • Seat specifications: Seat options vary widely, from basic, budget-friendly designs to premium models with 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.

When determining the overall cost of installing a stair lift, it's crucial to account for the price of the lift itself along with other additional expenses such as:

  • Capacity of the stairwell to fit and support a lift

  • Drywall or support structures

  • Electrical wiring

  • Flooring modifications

  • Labor costs for installation

  • Maintenance fees or support services

  • Paint or wall finishes after installation

  • Power source for the chair

The cost of purchasing and installing a stair lift can be substantial, and unfortunately, it's one that most public and private health insurance plans don't usually cover.

"Medicare typically does not cover these costs," says Norman. Medicare typically only covers durable mobility devices like wheelchairs or personal lifts prescribed by your doctor. "However, Medicaid might, depending on your state of residence," he adds.

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.

Furthermore, "Home equity or home improvement loans may be possible depending on your circumstances," Norman adds. He advises that talking about financing with a knowledgeable social worker or government agency could be helpful when considering purchasing a stair lift.

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 could also purchase 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.

Renting a stair lift might save you money initially. However, when comparing the pros and cons of renting versus buying, it's important to weigh the monthly leasing costs and the duration of use. In many cases, purchasing a stair lift could be less expensive over time.

If installing a stair lift isn't feasible, other ways exist to make using the stairs safer. Consider these options:

  • Handrails

  • Grab rails

  • Ramps

  • Moving bedrooms to the first floor of your home

  • Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L, occupational therapist with the National Council on Aging

  • Christopher Norman, MSN, APRN, APHN-BC, GNP-BC, geriatric nurse practitioner and holistic nurse with the National Council on Aging

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