Are Stair Lifts Worth It?
If you or a loved one has mobility issues, stair lifts can be a life-changing in-home addition.
Updated: June 27, 2025
At a glance:
- Stair lifts improve accessibility, reduce the risk of falls, and enhance the quality of life for seniors with mobility issues.
- Paying out-of-pocket for a stair lift costs an average of $8,450, ranging between $2,900 and $14,000, depending on the type of stair lift.
- You may be able to get the cost of your stair lift covered through Medicaid, Veterans Administration programs, nonprofit organizations, or other financial assistance programs.
The average cost for a stair lift can be prohibitive, making many seniors wonder whether it’s worth the investment. Making the best decision starts with understanding the costs associated with different types of stair lifts and how to obtain financial assistance if needed. Read on to get the insight you need to decide if installing a stair lift is worth it for you.
Are Stair Lifts a Good Idea: Pros and Cons
Stair lifts can be well worth it for elderly people with limited mobility who wish to age in place in their own homes. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before investing thousands of dollars to install one.
Stair Lift Pros
- Creates a safer environment where the risk of falls—a hazard faced by one in four seniors—is significantly reduced.
- Improves accessibility by making the upstairs and downstairs parts of your home easier to access without safety concerns.
- Provides independence for seniors who want to avoid transitioning to a nursing home or assisted living facility, as they can rely less on caretakers or family members.
- Quick installation for most models means that your stair lift can be up and running in just a few hours.
- Customizable options for modern stair lifts, including safety features such as swivel seats, footrests, folding handrails, seatbelts, and more, provide tailored mobility solutions within your budget.
Stair Lift Cons
- High upfront costs for some models and custom home layouts can quickly increase the price of a brand-new stair lift, making it cost-prohibitive for some seniors.
- Ongoing maintenance is necessary for more than just peace of mind, as systems can deteriorate and break down over time. Advanced, WiFi-connected features can further complicate the long-term updating and troubleshooting process.
- Not a universal solution for seniors with severe mobility limitations or cognitive impairments, as assisted living, residential elevators, or other home modifications may be better options in some cases.
What Makes a Stair Lift Worth the Price?
Before selecting the best stair lift for your home, it’s important to understand the factors that’ll impact the price you’ll pay for one. Please note that depending on the stair configuration and layout of your home, you may need to invest more money if you have a curved staircase or need the stairlift installed professionally:
| Stair Lift Type | Typical Price Range | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Straight stair lifts | $2,000 – $9,000 | An affordable option that includes most basic features. |
| Curved stair lifts | $10,000 – $25,000 | One of the most expensive options due to customization. |
| Electric lifts | $4,000 – $14,000 | Includes advanced features, but may be more expensive to install due to electrical work. |
| Battery-operated lifts | $2,900 – $7,900 | Slightly cheaper alternative to electric lifts. |
| Platform lifts | $5,000 – $20,000 | Includes a platform for wheelchair users at an additional cost. |
| Refurbished/used lifts | $1,000 – $3,500 | The cheapest option to buy outright, but used stair lifts may be difficult to customize and could have higher installation costs. |
| Rental lifts | $300 – $500/month + fees | An inexpensive short-term solution. |
Professional Tips For Making Your Stair Lift More “Worth It”
Part of making a stair lift “worth it” is about reducing the upfront costs. Here’s what our stair lift experts suggest:
Find Financial Assistance
While Medicare and most private insurances don’t cover the cost of a stair lift, many stair lift companies offer financing options so you don’t have to make a large upfront payment. If financing your stair lift isn’t the route you want to take, here are some additional ways to get the help you need.
- Medicaid may cover stair lifts as a home modification in some states. We recommend looking into your region’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers.
- Veterans programs, including Veterans Directed Home and Community Based Services (VD-HCBS) and grants (HISA, SAH, SHA), can provide senior veterans with coverage for stair lifts. However, eligibility can depend on disability or injuries you sustained in combat.
- Home Equity Loans or HELOCs, based on the value of your property, can provide the money you need to cover a stair lift, especially if your home is paid off.
- Charities and nonprofits may offer affordable new or used stair lifts based on income or disability.
Find a Stair Lift Rental Program
You might be able to rent a stair lift by contacting a local mobility equipment dealer. This works as a temporary solution, especially for seniors recovering from surgery. However, you may have limited access to special features or customizable layouts, as most rentals are designed for straight staircases.
Search For Used Stair Lifts
For seniors with permanent mobility issues, used stair lifts are often more affordable than new ones. Some stair lift companies have refurbished models that come with limited warranties or professional installation, providing peace of mind at an affordable cost.
You can also reach out to private sellers and online marketplaces, but be aware of the risks. There’s no guarantee the chair lift is functional or will fit your space. Take the time to confirm that the model matches your stairwell and look for a local technician who can safely install the new system.
Bottom Line: Are Stair Lifts Really Worth It?
For many seniors and individuals with mobility challenges, stair lifts offer more than just a means of getting up and down the stairs — they provide safety, independence, and the ability to age in place. While the cost can be significant, a stair lift may be well worth the investment when it helps avoid injuries, reduces reliance on caregivers, and allows you to stay comfortably in your own home.
With multiple pricing options, financial assistance programs, and rental or used models available, there’s likely a solution that fits both your needs and your budget. Ultimately, if a stair lift helps you or your loved one live more freely and safely, it’s a decision that’s not only practical but priceless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stair lifts can be a good idea for seniors with mobility issues, but those with limited incomes should look for financial assistance before making the investment.
The most cost-effective stair lift is fully customized to your unique needs and home layout, while staying as affordable as possible. For example, you may save money on a new stair lift if your home has a curved staircase. Alternatively, a used stair lift may be a more cost-effective option if you have a straight staircase. Always weigh the different costs before investing.
Yes and no. Used stair lifts are generally cheaper than new stair lifts, but can be a poor investment if they’re in poor condition or aren’t compatible with your home’s layout.
Renting stair lifts can be a great option for seniors recovering from surgery or as a temporary solution in other instances. However, whether it’s worth it depends on your unique situation.
Want to help us improve our stair lift resources? Share your thoughts on whether a stair lift is worth it by emailing [email protected]. Rest assured, your personal details will remain completely confidential.