How Much Does A Stair Lift Cost in 2025?

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

A stair chair lift costs between $1,500 and $30,000, with an average price of $7,000. Most homeowners pay between $2,300 to $24,000 on average. A stair lift is a common way to remodel for disability accommodation, and provides essential mobility between floors for those with limited mobility.

Stair Chair Lift Cost Factors

The price of your stair chair lift is impacted by several factors, including the type of stair lift and the configuration of the stairs the unit will be installed on. The unit cost is separate from the labor and installation, though some companies offer package deals that lower the overall project cost.

Type of Lift

Stair chair lifts come in three standard designs: straight, curved, or platform. Entry-level straight stair lifts begin around $2,000 with premium models reaching approximately $9,000. The custom manufacturing required for curved staircases significantly increases costs, with prices ranging from $10,350 to $25,000. Every turn or landing requires specialized engineering and precision fitting, resulting in higher material and labor expenses.

Designed to withstand environmental exposure, outdoor stair lifts are an alternative to building a wheelchair ramp, and cost between $4,000 and $25,000. Installation on exterior surfaces often presents additional challenges that can increase labor costs.

Additional features can increase costs, with each enhancement adding between $50 and $200 to the total price.

Stair Lift Model

Basic models cost less than those with specialized seating options or enhanced weight capacities. Discuss options with a local stair lift installation company to ensure you get a model that works well for you and has the features and capabilities you need.

Manufacturers offer various enhancement options including backup batteries, calling systems, safety harnesses, and obstruction sensors. Each additional feature adds between $50–$200 to the total cost.

Staircase Size

Manufacturers can mass-produce straight rail systems, making them more affordable. Staircases with curves, landings, or spiral configurations require custom-manufactured rails, pushing prices into the $10,350 to $25,000 range. Each additional foot of track and every turn increases material and fabrication costs.

Installation

Challenging installation environments such as narrow stairwells or exterior locations require additional labor. Professional installation services account for approximately 15% to 20% of the total stair lift cost. Professional installation is recommended, as manufacturers require it for warranty coverage.  You might need drywall repairs, ranging from $300 to $925, electrical wiring which runs $2 to $4 per square foot, or panel upgrades averaging $1,200 to $2,000.

New vs. Refurbished

Purchasing a new system provides comprehensive warranty coverage and access to the latest safety features. While prices align with the ranges mentioned earlier, new units offer maximum customization options and long-term reliability.

Pre-owned stair lifts cost between $1,500 and $3,000 for straight models, providing significant savings compared to new units. When considering a used system, verify certification status and any remaining warranty coverage.

Rental Options

For temporary mobility needs, rental programs charge approximately $300–$500 monthly. Additional one-time expenses include security deposits ($500–$1,000), installation ($400–$700), and removal ($300–$600). Most rental programs only offer straight stair lift configurations.

Insurance or Financial Aid

While traditional Medicare does not cover stair lift expenses, alternative funding sources are available. Veterans administration benefits, private insurance when medically prescribed, tax deductions for qualifying equipment, and community-based accessibility grants are options with the potential to lower overall cost. Check with your installation company for local opportunities for financial support.

DIY Stair Chair Lift Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Because a stair lift requires precision work and expert-level skill, a DIY-approach is not recommended. Incorrect installation results in major problems and malfunctions that could lead to severe injury. Many chair lift warranties require professional installation in order to remain valid. Always work with a certified local stair lift company to get trusted installation results and have peace of mind.

Budgeting for Stair Chair List Installation

Consider these cost-saving strategies to make your stair chair lift installation project more budget-friendly:

• Schedule regular maintenance to prevent major repairs.

• Address minor issues early before they worsen.

• Compare quotes from multiple local pros to ensure competitive pricing.

• Use standard models instead of premium options when possible.

• Check warranty coverage before scheduling repairs.

• Perform simple cleaning and upkeep yourself to reduce professional service needs.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.