How Much Do Stair Lifts Cost in 2025?
Installing a stair lift costs an average of $7,050
The average stair lift cost with installation is $7,050, and most homeowners will spend between $2,300 and $24,000 for a stair lift.
Stair lift cost factors include stair length and shape, installation location, comfort and weight capacity, and power source.
Stair lifts offer increased mobility, provide comfort, and can be customized to fit specific needs.
Installing stair lifts involves technical training, added wiring, and safety measures, making it essential to hire a professional.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Installing a stair lift costs between $2,300 and $24,000, with the average homeowner spending $7,050. Costs depend on the length and style needed. Standard straight stair lifts less than 15 feet cost $2,000 to $9,000, while curved models range from $10,350 to $25,000. Professional installation is essential for safety and proper operation.
Stair Lift Cost Factors
Several factors affect the cost of installing a stair lift, including installation and labor, the power source, and any additional work required. Understanding these factors helps in effectively budgeting when purchasing a stair lift.
Installation and Labor
Stair lift installation costs between 15% and 20% of the stair lift’s purchase price—for example, installing a $6,000 stair lift might cost between $900 and $1,200 in labor. You may pay more if you have a steeper-than-average incline or outdoor steps made of stone or earth.
Labor is typically included in the installation price since most installers work for stair lift dealers or manufacturers. If you decide to hire a third-party installer, expect to pay $75 to $100 per hour for professional labor.
Sometimes, your installer must do additional work to finish the project. In that case, you may need these extra services:
Repair drywall: $300–$920
Build a wall: $970–$3,200
Upgrade or replace an electrical panel: $520–$2,120
Install electrical wiring: $600–$2,600
Battery-Powered vs. Hardwired
Stair lifts are either battery-powered or hardwired to an electrical outlet.
Battery-powered stair lifts: Cost $3,000 to $5,000. They are easy to install without additional wiring, operate during power outages, but require regular battery maintenance.
Hardwired stair lifts: Cost $4,000 to $9,000. They may require extra wiring if no outlet is near the stairwell and need a battery backup for power outages. They have higher upfront costs but require less maintenance.
New vs. Pre-Owned Stair Lift Costs
Purchasing a pre-owned stair lift costs between $1,500 and $3,000, offering significant savings compared to new models. However, used stair lifts may lack customization options, especially for curved staircases. Always buy from a reputable company that thoroughly tests each unit to ensure safe operation.
Stair Lift Rental Cost
Renting a stair lift costs $300 to $500 per month, excluding installation, removal, and deposit fees. This option is ideal for short-term needs, such as recovery from surgery or temporary accommodation. Most rental companies require a minimum three-month rental period. These are the costs you can expect with a stair lift rental:
Three-month rental: $900–$1,500
Installation fee: $400–$700
Removal: $300–$600
Refundable deposit: $2,100–$3,900
Stair Lift Customization and Add-On Costs
A variety of customization options for stair lifts adds convenience at an extra cost. Common upgrade options include:
Power swivel seats for users with limited mobility or strength in the arms, hands, or legs
Power or manual folding rails that can be folded out of the way when not in use
Power footrests that can fold up at the push of a button
Upholstery upgrades to match your home decor
These features can vary in cost depending on your lift model, but your local dealer may have access to manufacturer discounts or specials that can help you keep costs as low as possible.
Stair Lift Costs by Type
Stair lift prices range from $1,500 to $25,000, primarily depending on the length and shape of your stairs. Straight stair lifts cost $2,000 to $9,000, while curved models range from $10,350 to $25,000. Additional cost factors include installation location, comfort features, weight capacity, and power source (battery-powered or hardwired).
| Stair Lift Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Straight | $2,000–$9,000 |
| Curved | $10,350–$25,000 |
| Outdoor | $4,000–$25,000 |
| Platform | $5,000–$20,000 |
Straight
A stair lift for a home with a straight staircase and standard-height ceilings costs between $2,000 and $9,000. This is the most common type of stair lift. Your final cost will depend on the length of your staircase, the stair lift model you choose, and any upgrade options you choose to add.
Curved
Curved stair lifts are the most expensive type, costing between $10,350 and $25,000. This price range is higher than that of straight-track models because the installer must customize the track to fit the unique configuration of the curved staircase. If your staircase has one or more landings, you could save thousands by opting to install multiple straight stair lifts instead of one curved lift.
Outdoor
Outdoor stair lifts for patio steps, decks, and docks range in price from $4,000 to $25,000, depending on the type and total length. This type uses more expensive materials that can get wet or dirty without losing function and may require additional protective seat covers or storage space.
Platform
A platform stair lift can cost $5,000 to $20,000. These enable wheelchair users to maneuver up and down staircases without getting out of their wheelchairs. The wheelchair can roll onto a size-appropriate platform that operates like the seat component of a typical stair lift.
DIY Stair Lift Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
A professional should always handle stair lift installation. Incorrect installation can result in malfunctions, leading to serious injury or even death. Manufacturers often require professional installation to maintain warranties. Always work with a certified stair lift installer to ensure safety and proper operation.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
A stair lift installation qualifies as a tax-deductible expense when it addresses a verifiable medical need. Homeowners who require a stair lift for essential mobility improvements and who elect to itemize their deductions may claim this expense. It is important to consult a tax professional to confirm eligibility and ensure all documentation meets current tax law guidelines.
Stair lifts use very little electricity and do not burden the household energy bill. Their operation requires only 20 to 30 watts per hour, which results in an annual energy cost between $10 and $20. The energy efficiency of stair lifts guarantees a negligible impact on utility expenses, and adherence to manufacturer maintenance guidelines preserves optimal performance.
A stair lift can be installed on nearly any staircase, and this answer addresses your inquiry directly. When a staircase features curves, turns, or intermediate landings, a custom-built design is essential to ensure a secure fit and safe operation. Professional measurement and installation guarantee that the stair lift conforms precisely to the staircase’s unique layout, delivering optimal performance and safety.
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