Always confirm costs with your healthcare facility and/or insurance coverage
Thinking about installing a stair lift? Whether it’s for aging in place, post-surgery mobility, or just avoiding a daily game of “stairs or pain,” here’s what you’ll actually pay—and what shady installers won’t tell you upfront.
💸 Average Stair Lift Prices (Installed)
Stair Lift Type |
Price Range (Installed) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
Straight Stair Lift |
$2,000 – $5,000 |
Most common and affordable |
Curved Stair Lift |
$9,000 – $15,000+ |
Custom-built for your staircase |
Outdoor Stair Lift |
$4,000 – $12,000 |
Weatherproof; higher maintenance |
Standing/Perch Lift |
$3,500 – $7,000 |
Designed for users with knee issues |
Used or Refurbished Unit |
$1,200 – $3,000 |
Installation often extra |
Rental (Monthly) |
$250 – $500/month |
Not always available for curved lifts |
🧠 Key Price Factors to Expect
- Staircase Shape:
- Straight = cheap(er)
- Curved = custom rails = $$$
- Length of Staircase:
- Extra steps = longer track = more cash
- Indoor vs Outdoor:
- Outdoor models are built tougher, and it shows in the price
- Installation Fees:
- $500 – $1,500 on average, and often not included in the base quote
- Power Options:
- Battery vs plug-in. Batteries cost more upfront, but keep running during outages.
🧾 Hidden Costs Most Companies Won’t Mention
- 🧰 Permits or Electrical Upgrades: May add $300 – $1,000+
- 💥 Staircase Modifications: Some homes need railings, support bracing, or trim removal
- 🔄 Maintenance Contracts: $150 – $400/year if you want warranty coverage
- 🔋 Battery Replacement: Every 3–5 years, $100 – $300
🧳 Should You Buy, Rent, or Refurbish?
Option |
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|---|
Buy New |
Full warranty, custom fit |
Most expensive |
Refurbished |
Cheaper, often same-day installs |
May have limited warranty |
Rent |
Great for short-term use |
Long-term rental = overpaying fast |
🏥 Is It Covered by Insurance or Medicare?
Short answer: No.
Medicare does not cover stair lifts. Most private insurance plans also don’t, unless you have a specific rider or long-term care benefit.
BUT:
- Some Medicaid waivers and state assistance programs may help.
- Veterans: VA Aid & Attendance or Home Improvements Grants may help cover full cost.
🔧 Installation Time: What to Expect
- Straight stair lifts: 2–4 hours
- Curved/custom: 1–3 weeks for manufacturing + install day
- Outdoor: Variable depending on weatherproofing needs
✅ TL;DR
Stair Lift Type |
Typical Total Cost |
|---|---|
Straight, new |
$2,000 – $5,000 |
Curved, custom |
$9,000 – $15,000+ |
Outdoor |
$4,000 – $12,000 |
Refurbished/Rental |
$1,200 – $3,000+ |
💡 Bottom Line
Don’t let the $2K base price bait you. If your staircase isn’t straight and simple, expect a five-figure quote. Always compare multiple installers, ask about included installation, and beware of “optional” features that aren’t really optional.
🧾 User-Reported Cost: Ever feel like you’re getting hit with a ton of hidden fees? You need to watch out for those sneaky extra costs that can really add up, like permits or electrical upgrades, and don’t even get me started on maintenance contracts! Seriously, it’s like they want to keep you forever!