Stairlift Costs: Complete Pricing Guide for 2026
How much does a stairlift cost? Compare straight vs curved, new vs refurbished, installation costs, and top brands.
Key Takeaways
- 1Straight stairlifts cost $2,000-5,000 installed
- 2Curved stairlifts cost $10,000-15,000+ installed
- 3Refurbished stairlifts save 30-50% off new prices
- 4Rental options available for short-term needs
- 5Medicare does not cover stairlifts
- 6Some Medicaid waiver programs may help with costs
- 7Installation adds $500-1,500 to equipment cost
Stairlift Cost Overview
Stairlift costs vary significantly based on staircase type, features, and whether you buy new or refurbished.
| Stairlift Type | Equipment Cost | Installed Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight (new) | $2,000-4,000 | $2,500-5,000 | Most common type |
| Straight (refurbished) | $1,000-2,500 | $1,500-3,000 | 30-50% savings |
| Curved (new) | $8,000-12,000 | $10,000-15,000 | Custom to stairs |
| Curved (refurbished) | $5,000-8,000 | $7,000-10,000 | Limited availability |
| Outdoor | $3,000-6,000 | $4,000-8,000 | Weather-resistant |
Why Such a Price Difference?
Straight stairlifts use standard rails that fit most straight staircases. Curved stairlifts require custom-manufactured rails to match your specific staircase curves, landings, and angles.
Straight vs Curved Stairlifts
The shape of your staircase is the biggest factor in stairlift cost.
- **Straight stairlifts**: Standard rails fit most straight staircases without modifications
- **Curved stairlifts**: Each rail is custom-built using measurements of your exact staircase
- **L-shaped stairs**: Require curved stairlift or two straight lifts with platform
- **Spiral stairs**: Need specialized curved stairlift, most expensive option
- **Multiple floors**: May need separate stairlifts for each flight
| Feature | Straight Stairlift | Curved Stairlift |
|---|---|---|
| Price range | $2,000-5,000 | $10,000-15,000+ |
| Rail type | Standard/stock | Custom manufactured |
| Installation time | 2-4 hours | 4-8 hours |
| Lead time | Same day-1 week | 2-4 weeks |
| Used/refurbished | Widely available | Limited availability |
| Best for | Straight staircases | Turns, landings, spirals |
Get Multiple Quotes
Stairlift prices vary significantly between dealers. Get at least 3 quotes for any installation, especially for curved stairlifts where custom pricing has more room for negotiation.
New vs Refurbished Stairlifts
Refurbished stairlifts offer significant savings with minimal compromise.
- **Refurbished quality**: Reputable dealers fully inspect, repair, and test units
- **New rails**: Even refurbished stairlifts get new rails fitted to your stairs
- **Warranty included**: Most refurbished units come with 1-2 year warranties
- **Best savings**: Straight refurbished stairlifts offer biggest savings
- **Curved refurbished**: Rare because rails are custom (can't reuse)
| Factor | New Stairlift | Refurbished Stairlift |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Full price | 30-50% less |
| Warranty | 2-5 years | 1-2 years |
| Condition | Brand new | Inspected & restored |
| Features | Latest options | May be older model |
| Availability | Always available | Depends on inventory |
| Rails (straight) | New | New (fitted to stairs) |
Best Value Choice
For straight staircases, a refurbished stairlift from a reputable dealer offers the best value. You'll save $1,000-2,000 with minimal difference in reliability.
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Top Stairlift Brands & Prices
Here are the most popular stairlift brands and their typical price ranges.
- **Acorn**: Direct-to-consumer model, fast quotes and installation
- **Bruno**: Premium American manufacturer, excellent warranty
- **Stannah**: British company with 150+ years experience, very reliable
- **Handicare**: Good balance of quality and price
- **Harmar**: Budget option with solid basic features
| Brand | Straight Price | Curved Price | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn | $2,500-4,000 | $10,000-14,000 | Fast installation |
| Bruno | $3,000-5,000 | $10,000-15,000 | American-made, premium |
| Stannah | $3,000-5,000 | $10,000-15,000 | UK quality, reliable |
| Handicare | $2,500-4,500 | $9,000-13,000 | Good value |
| Harmar | $2,000-4,000 | $9,000-12,000 | Budget-friendly |
Installation Costs & Process
Installation is typically included in quoted prices, but understanding the process helps with planning.
- **Installation time**: 2-4 hours for straight, 4-8 hours for curved
- **Who installs**: Trained technicians from the stairlift company
- **Stairs modified?**: No - rails mount to stairs, not walls
- **Electrical**: Standard outlet needed at top or bottom
- **Building permits**: Usually not required for residential
- **Rental units**: Landlord permission may be needed
| Installation Item | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard installation | Included | Part of quoted price |
| Electrical outlet | $100-300 | If not already present |
| Rail extension | $300-500 | To reach landing |
| Hinged rail | $300-500 | For doorway clearance |
| Removal (later) | $200-500 | When no longer needed |
In-Home Assessment Required
Accurate pricing requires an in-home assessment. Technicians measure your exact staircase and identify any special requirements before providing a final quote.
Financing & Assistance Options
Several options can help manage stairlift costs.
- **Medicare**: Does NOT cover stairlifts
- **Medicaid waivers**: Some states cover home modifications for eligible individuals
- **VA benefits**: May cover for qualifying veterans
- **Financing plans**: Most dealers offer 0% for 12-24 months
- **Home equity**: Can use HELOC for home modifications
- **Tax deductions**: May qualify as medical expense (consult CPA)
- **Nonprofit grants**: Organizations like Rebuilding Together may help
| Funding Source | Coverage | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Medicare | No coverage | N/A |
| Medicaid HCBS | Varies by state | Low-income, care needs |
| VA Aid & Attendance | May cover | Veterans with care needs |
| Dealer financing | Most costs | Credit approval needed |
| Area Agency on Aging | Some programs | Seniors 60+ |
Check Local Resources
Contact your local Area Agency on Aging (call 211) to learn about home modification assistance programs in your area.
Funding Home Modifications
Home modifications like stairlifts, grab bars, and ramps allow seniors to age safely in place. These expenses, combined with healthcare costs and daily living, can strain retirement savings. Protecting your retirement assets with a diversified portfolio helps ensure you can fund the modifications needed to stay safely in your home.
Planning for Aging-in-Place Costs
Home modifications can cost $5,000-50,000+ over time. Protected retirement savings help fund these essential updates.
- Stairlift: $2,000-15,000 one-time cost
- Bathroom modifications: $3,000-15,000
- Overall aging-in-place updates: $10,000-50,000
Frequently Asked Questions
1How much does a stairlift cost?
A straight stairlift costs $2,000-5,000 installed. A curved stairlift costs $10,000-15,000+ installed. The difference is because curved stairlifts require custom-manufactured rails.
2Does Medicare pay for stairlifts?
No, Medicare does not cover stairlifts. Some Medicaid waiver programs and VA benefits may help with costs for qualifying individuals. Most people pay out-of-pocket or use financing.
3Are refurbished stairlifts worth it?
Yes, refurbished stairlifts from reputable dealers are a good value. They cost 30-50% less than new and come with warranties. The rails are always new (fitted to your stairs). Best savings on straight stairlifts.
4How long do stairlifts last?
Quality stairlifts last 10-15+ years with proper maintenance. Annual service (about $100-200) keeps them running smoothly. Most manufacturers offer 2-5 year warranties on new units.
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