Stair Lift Cost: The Ultimate Guide for Consumers

What Are Stair Lifts Used for?

One of the reasons some people consider moving is because of mobility limitations. Suddenly, a second floor becomes much more difficult to access as disabilities and age limit mobility. A stair lift can help overcome these limitations.

Types of Stair Lifts

There are multiple stair lifts to choose from. Different designs and manufacturers have different quality, options, and prices.

Standard Stair Lift Features

A lower-end basic model serves the purpose of getting you up and down your staircase. These stair lifts have required safety features, limited choices in terms of colors and shapes, and simple arm controls.

Premium Stair Lift Features

On the higher end of the pricing range are premium stair lifts. These can be customized to suit your home decor, have a slimmer profile so they blend in, and have a higher weight capacity. 

Premium models have extra safety features and are generally easier to use than basic models. Premium stair lifts can include features like a folding footrest and seat, power seat swivel, and retracting rails. You might also customize the stair lift upholstery to match the design of your home.

Stair Lift Cost

If you think that stair lifts are too pricey for your home, think again. A stair lift’s cost can vary depending on several factors, and there's sure to be one that's within your budget.

 A stair lift can range in price depending on the length of the staircase, the number of landings, complexity, and any additional features. Stair lifts can cost anywhere from$2,000 to well over $10,000. 

Straight Staircase Cost

A straight staircase lift in a basic model costs between $2,000 and $5,000. Based on your needs, the following may increase the price of your stair lift:

  • Having more than 14 steps in your staircase

  • Requiring a heavy-duty model to accommodate heavier weights

Custom Stair Lift Cost

For custom stair lifts, you're looking at a starting price of $7,500. Depending on the length, the number of landings, complexity, and any additional features, that cost can go well beyond $10,000. 

Standing Stair Lift Cost

For those who have a hard time sitting down, even for short periods of time, consider a standing stair lift. These cost between $3,000 and $5,000.

Outdoor Stair Lift Cost

Stair lifts can be installed outside on decks, docks, and patios, but they require special features. These features make them able to hold up against the elements. They'll keep working in the rain, cold weather, and even salty air.

An outdoor stair lift for a straight staircase starts at $5,000. Like indoor lifts, that price changes according to how complex and long the staircase is as well as additional features.

Used Stair Lift cost

It's possible to purchase lightly used stair lifts at a cheaper price. These are usually limited to straight stair lifts.

Should I Buy or Rent a Stair Lift?

Renting is the cheapest option for getting a stair lift, but it's not always ideal for people with long-term or permanent disabilities. Renting a stair lift could be an option if you need temporary accommodations while recovering from an injury or surgery. For those with permanent disabilities, buying a stair lift may be a more economical choice.

Can I Install a Stair Lift Myself?

Installing a stair lift yourself is not a good idea. Stair lifts need to be installed by a trained professional to ensure that they're safe.

An installation might cost as much as $2,000 on top of the lift itself. The price can vary depending on the size of the lift and whether there's an electrical outlet nearby. Some retailers will include this cost in the price of the stair lift, so be sure to ask before you purchase.

Stair Lift Maintenance Cost

Beyond installation, there is one additional cost you should consider when looking at stair lifts. That is the cost of an annual maintenance check. 

You'll want to be sure that your stair lift is in good working order every year, so that it’s safe for you to continue using. Your lift will also last a lot longer with regular maintenance.

Having a qualified representative come and check your lift will cost between $100 and $200 per maintenance visit.

Rather than making the costly decision to purchase a one-story home, consider contacting your local mobility dealer to make your home accessible to those with disabilities.

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