While inflation may be hitting you hard at the grocery store or you’re indulging in a little online shopping, prices for stair lifts have remained relatively stable. However, because chair lifts for stairs are a large mobility tool, they come with a price tag to match.
Stairlifts (also known as chair lifts for stairs) cost between $2,500 and $30,000. Prices vary depending on features such as staircase configuration (straight vs. curved), brand, and where you purchase them.
In this article, we cover the costs of stair lifts in 2025, what you need to know before buying, and different payment options.
What Are Chair Lifts for Stairs?
Chair lifts for stairs are seats installed on a rail that safely carry those with mobility issues up and down stairs. The chair uses electricity to move the seat up and down the staircase.
Different Types of Stairlifts
- Straight stairlifts: These stair lifts have no curves and are easy to install. While professionals will have to measure your staircase, it’s fairly easy to measure and install straight stair lift options as they’re typically in stock. If your staircase has a landing in the middle, you may need two stair lifts.
- Curved stairlifts: Some staircases have twists and turns, making it harder to install stair lifts and help those with mobility issues. Most curved stair lifts will be customized to the measurements of your staircase. The installation team may need to order special parts for personalized curved stair lifts.
- Outdoor stairlifts: Stairlifts for outdoor use are made with durable materials to be weather-ready. They typically cost more than indoor stair lifts and can be curved or straight, depending on the stairlift.
How Much Does a Stairlift Cost?
Factors that influence stair lift pricing:
- Staircase shape and size (curved vs. straight)
- Labor costs
- Brand and model
- Additional Upgrades
- Taxes
- Necessary Permits
- Age and condition of stair lift
- Staircase design
Straight Stair Lift Pricing
Straight stairlifts are the most popular and have a lower price tag, typically between $2,500 and $10,000. Most companies have everything (tools and correct rail sizes) on hand for installing standard straight stair lifts.
The final bill will depend on factors such as the model and brand, the length of your staircase, and extra features.
Independent Home Solutions offers payment plan options if you’re ready to purchase a stair lift but cannot pay all at once. Pennsylvania residents may also qualify for special funding from organizations (included below).
Curved Stair Lift Pricing
Curved stair lifts cost, on average, between $10,000 and $27,000, and costs can go even higher.
They have higher price tags because they require customization for your staircase. They are custom-fitted and made to your staircase’s measurements.
Those with intermediate landings may want to order a customized stair lift or may make use of two straight stair lifts if possible.
Outdoor Stair Lift Pricing
Outdoor stairlifts have a wide price range, running from $5,000 to $30,000. On the higher end of the spectrum, you’ll find devices made with premium materials or for curved staircases, and the lower end are straight stair lift models with fewer features.
Premium vs. Economy Stair Lifts
Premium chair lifts for stairs are the cream of the crop. They’ll come with all the extra features and elite decor options, such as custom-colored upholstery and wood trim. Extra features may include automatic retracting rails and push-button footrest folding.
Economy chair lifts for stairs have all the basic safety and accessibility features. However, they likely have limited color choices and are less likely to match your home decor.
Payment Options for Chair Lifts for Stairs
Here are the best options to find grants or payment plans to finance a new stair lift.
Does Medicare Cover Stairlifts?
Medicare typically covers the cost of durable medical equipment (DME), including necessary equipment such as commode chairs, walkers, canes, and crutches. However, they typically don’t cover stairlifts because they’re not deemed a ‘medical necessity’ and are considered a ‘convenience.’
That said, some Medicare Advantage plans may cover the cost of stairlifts because they improve mobility. Read your coverage statement or contact your provider to find out if you’re eligible.
Do Companies Offer Payment Plans (Financing) for Stair Lifts?
Independent Home Solutions offers financing options through Wisetack. Apply online to explore Wisetacks financing options. Different rates apply depending on your credit score.
Additional Payment Options for Stair Lifts
- Medicaid: Older adults and individuals with a low income who are eligible for Medicaid may qualify to have a stair lift covered through Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) and/or HCBS grants. Cover the cost of a stair lift with HCBS grants in Pennsylvania.
- Veterans Health Administration: Veterans of the U.S. military may be eligible for a stair lift grant. Contact your local VA to find out more about which programs you’re eligible for, such as the VA Aid and Attendance Benefit or disability housing grants for veterans. Receiving Medicaid benefits will not affect your eligibility for VA health care benefits.
- Department of Housing and Urban Development Office (HUD): Many states offer grants or other financial assistance for home modifications for older adults or those with disabilities. These may include installing stair lifts. Contact the Pennsylvania HUD office to learn more about their programs.
- Private medical insurance companies: Some private health insurance cover the bill for stair lifts (or a portion of the total cost). When contacting them, also ask if you need a statement from a medical professional to verify you need the device.
- Local Area Agencies on Aging: This organization provides Pennsylvania residents with resources for anyone seeking funds for aging-related needs. Call PA Link to speak to someone about grants for home modifications, or find your county’s Local Area Agency on Aging for assistance within your community.
- Other Pennsylvania programs: Pennsylvania offers residents many grants, loans, or other funding for age-related needs. Funding for stair lifts is available through Help at Home (OPTIONS), the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PAFT), and the PA Housing Finance Agency (PHFA).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an alternative to a stairlift?
If stair lifts do not work for you or your home, you can consider stair climbing aids, handrails or grab bars, home lifts, half-step stair climbing aids, or home modifications such as moving your bedroom to the main floor.
What is the average cost of installing stairlifts?
Most stair lift companies include installation costs in the price for stair lifts. If they’re not included, request a quote for installation during the initial assessment.
How can I find a good stairlift company in Central Pennsylvania?
Our team at Independent Home Solutions offers professional stair lift installation at an affordable price. As a trusted stairlift company, we can install a stair lift in your home in one day. Get a free estimate to get started!
