How Much Does a Stairlift Cost?
A straight stairlift costs $2,000-$8,500 installed, averaging $3,200-$4,500. A curved stairlift, needed for any staircase with a turn or landing, costs $7,500-$20,000 or more because the rail is custom-fabricated for your exact stairs.
The price range
$2,000–$8,500
National averages cluster around $3,200-$4,500 for a straight staircase.
$7,500–$20,000
Custom rail fabrication drives roughly 60% of the total cost — more turns and a longer staircase both increase it.
What moves the price up or down
- Straight vs. curved rail is the single biggest factor — see our full stairlift comparison (opens in a new tab) for exactly why curved models cost so much more.
- Weight capacity. Higher-capacity models cost more than standard 300-lb-rated units.
- Outdoor-rated lifts, for exterior stairs, use weatherproofed components and generally cost more than an equivalent indoor model.
- Battery backup and features like a powered swivel seat or folding rail add to the base price.
What’s typically included and excluded
Most stairlift quotes include the unit, rail, professional installation, and an initial service visit. They typically exclude ongoing maintenance plans (often offered separately) and any electrical work needed if your stairwell doesn’t already have a nearby outlet for charging.
Getting an accurate local quote
Because curved-rail pricing varies more between installers than straight-rail pricing does, get at least two quotes for a curved lift specifically. Ask each installer for their measurement and fabrication timeline — a wide gap in quoted lead time can be as important as the price difference.
How to pay for it
Original Medicare generally doesn’t cover stairlifts, since it’s classified as a home modification rather than durable medical equipment. Medicaid HCBS waivers cover stairlifts in many states as part of home and community-based accessibility benefits — see our Medicaid HCBS waiver guide (opens in a new tab) for how to check your state’s specific program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is buying a used stairlift a good way to save money?
It can be for a straight-rail model, since standard rail lengths can sometimes be reused or resold. A used curved-rail lift is a much harder match, since the rail was custom-fabricated for a different staircase and generally can't be reused elsewhere. If considering a used unit, confirm installation and any warranty terms with a licensed installer before buying.