How Much Does a Stairlift Typically Cost?
The cost of having a stairlift installed in your home can vary depending on a wide range of factors. If you need a stairlift (also known as a chair lift) to help you or a loved one navigate the home due to age, illness, or injury, understanding the factors that affect pricing will help you choose the best stair/chair lift for your needs.
Factors that Affect the Cost of a Stairlift
Weight Capacity
When buying a stairlift for mobility, it's important to choose a make and model that is designed to withstand the user's weight and the intended usage of the lift. For example, a lightweight user who only needs to go up and down the stairs a couple of times a day could get by with a basic model whereas a heavy or frequent user might need a heavy-duty stairlift.
Type of Seat
The type of seat on the stairlift can also make a difference in the cost:
Swivel seat. Swivel seats allow the user to get out of the chair without twisting, which could be an advantage if the user suffers from problems with their back, hips, or spine, or will be transitioning to a mobility aid (such as a walker or rollator) after using the stairlift.
Collapsible seat. Collapsible seats fold up when the stairlift is not in use, making space for others to go up and down the stairs.
Perch seat. A perch seat allows the user to go up and down while remaining in a semi-standing position.
Angled seat. An angled seat allows the user to recline slightly in the seat, reducing the likelihood of falling out. Please note that stairlifts should always come with a seat belt to prevent falls.
Straight Lift vs. Curved Lift
Stairlifts on straight stairs are the cheapest to build and install. However, the various sizes and shapes of stairwells could make it necessary to consider an alternative design.
Landings
If there is a landing, you may need to install a curved stairlift or two straight stairlifts instead of one standard stairlift. Consider the ability of the user to transition between the lifts safely when choosing this option.
Curved Staircases
If the stairwell is curved, you will need to have a custom stairlift built to fit your stairs. Custom stairlifts can’t typically be returned or resold, so it’s important to weigh up the benefits carefully before going ahead with a custom stairlift.
Custom Features
Additional features, upgrades, and add-ons may be required for maximum safety—each one carrying an added cost. Custom features you may be offered include:
Additional safety sensors
A key lock
A power footrest
A power swivel seat
A folding rail (power or manual)
A remote control
Indoor vs. Outdoor Stairlifts
Special stairlifts are available for outdoor use, such as for navigating the entrance to a beachfront or dock. Compared to indoor stairlifts, outdoor lifts cost more because they are built from hardy, weatherproof materials to protect them from the elements. Outdoor stairlifts always need to be custom-designed and can’t generally be resold.
Other Factors to Consider
Aside from the stairlift itself, there are other factors that contribute to the final cost:
Brand. Top brands tend to cost more. However, it's easier to find replacement parts and the stairlift is likely to be more durable overall.
Authorized Retailer or Online. Buying a stairlift online will invariably be more cost-effective than buying a stairlift from an authorized dealer. However, you'll need to consider the costs of delivery and installation (the Accessibility Equipment Manufacturers Association strongly advises against DIY installation and instead recommends hiring installation professionals).
New or Used. A used stairlift will typically cost less than a new stairlift. Used stairlifts sold by an authorized retailer will have been reconditioned before installation.
Length of the Track. Extra-long stairwells may require additional track sections, increasing the total cost of the stairlift.
Railing Removal. It's not usually necessary to remove the existing railing to install a stairlift. However, if it is, this could increase the installation cost.
Stairlift Installation on Complex Stairways. Stairlift installation on a curved staircase takes longer than a standard straight rail stairlift on a straight staircase. Installing a stairlift on a staircase with a landing also takes longer because two stairlifts will need to be installed, leading to higher installation costs.
Ongoing Maintenance Programs
After the initial installation, you will need to pay for an annual inspection to make sure the stairlift is still safe. Many stairlift companies—including Mobility Plus in Denver, Colorado—offer stairlift maintenance programs to keep your stairlift in top condition and prevent user injuries and falls.
Assistance with Paying for the Cost of a Stairlift
While a consumers' stairlift cost might seem high at the outset, having a stairlift installed at home is usually cheaper than paying for an assisted living facility. It's also cheaper than paying for hospitalization if you or your loved one should fall down the stairs!
Fortunately, there are a number of ways to save money on a quality stairlift:
Rent rather than buy. If you need a stairlift for only a few months, it's generally more cost-effective to rent a stairlift instead of buying one.
Rent to buy. Some companies will allow you to credit back part of your rental costs should you decide to purchase the stairlift. Be sure to ask about this option before you sign the rental contract.
Pre-owned stairlift. As mentioned previously, a pre-owned stairlift will usually cost less than a new stairlift and will have been reconditioned for safety.
Insurance. Your insurance provider may reimburse you for part of the cost of buying a stairlift and having it installed. It's best to talk with your insurance provider before going ahead with a purchase.
Alternative solutions. If the flight of stairs is especially short, you might consider a less-expensive wheelchair ramp or vertical platform lift instead.
The Right Stairlift is Well Worth the Cost
Whichever make and model you choose, investing in a stairlift is a life-changing decision that could transform your or your loved one's life—increasing independence, increasing mobility, and most importantly, preventing falls.
To find the best stairlift for your needs, consult with an experienced stairlift retailer and research options for rental or credit. Over time, you should find that the cost of the right stairlift is money well spent and potentially even mone