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How Much Do Outdoor Wheelchair Lifts Cost?
Including professional installation, the average price of an outdoor wheelchair lift is $20,000. Actual costs depend on the type of lift, weight capacity, platform size, travel distance, and the shape of the staircase.
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AT A GLANCE:
- Outdoor wheelchair lifts cost between $5,000 and $35,000 on average, with portable lifts at the lower end and curved inclined platform lifts (IPLs) at the higher end.
- The average outdoor chair lift installation cost is 15% to 25% of the total project cost, with intermediate landings, lift height, and additional safety features increasing the overall price.
- Residential wheelchair lifts designed for outdoor use can be fitted to both straight and curved staircases, though the latter costs more on average ($20,000 – $35,000+) than the former ($12,000 – $35,000).
Whether you’re an active scooter user or simply enjoy open-air lounging in your wheelchair, outdoor wheelchair lifts are the perfect accessibility solution. However, with a variety of high-quality options, portable chair lifts, IPLs, VPLs, and more, it’s worth considering the most cost-effective solution for your home.
To ensure seniors achieve maximum functionality for the price, we’ve investigated the cost of outdoor wheelchair lift parts, installation, and additional safety features. Read on to learn how you can enjoy easy access to your porch, deck, garage, garden, or outdoor staircase.
What Is An Outdoor Wheelchair Lift?
Looking for something more advanced than a basic wheelchair ramp? You can navigate outdoor steps and raised porches with ease using an outdoor wheelchair lift. These mobility aids, often referred to as outdoor platform lifts, are crafted from weather-resistant materials to withstand any climate. This includes aluminum or steel rails and platforms.
The way an outdoor wheelchair lift functions depends on the type, though most utilize a battery-powered electric motor to move a platform or power chair along a fixed rail or vertical column. Inclined platform lifts (IPLs) carry the user along a rail mounted to the stair treads. Conversely, vertical wheelchair lifts (VPLs) rise straight up and down alongside a porch or deck without following a staircase. We generally don’t recommend stair lifts with transfer seats because users can’t bring their mobility aids to the top landing.
Regardless, almost all outdoor wheelchair lifts include similar safety features, like:
- Battery backups
- Non-slip platform surfaces
- Obstruction sensors
- Emergency stop buttons
- Safety belts or harnesses
- Weather-resistant enclosures or covers
- Overload alerts
- Remote or call/send controls
- Automatic locking mechanisms at the landing gate
Types of Outdoor Wheelchair Lifts
While outdoor wheelchair lifts designed for residential use are generally cheaper than those for commercial settings, there are still several types with distinct price points. From straight and curved outdoor lifts to VPLs, here are some of the most popular options available to you:
Inclined Platform Lifts (IPLs)
- Total cost range: $12,000 – $35,000
- Installation costs: $3,500 – $6,000
Straight IPLs are usually the most cost-effective outdoor mobility solution, depending on lift height and additional safety features. For instance, many models can be built to rise up to 14 feet, with this maximum travel distance costing double or triple that of a five-foot lift.
IPLs work by moving a wheelchair-accessible platform diagonally along a rail screwed into the stair treads. After measuring your deck, porch, or entryway, most standard rails can be easily cut to size during installation. This simplicity also makes it easier to find affordable rental or refurbished options.
Curved IPLs
- Total cost range: $20,000 – $35,000+
- Installation costs: $4,000 – $6,000
While they work the same way, curved wheelchair lifts cost more than double that of straight lift options because turns and intermediate landings require custom rail design. After measurements are taken, the entire system must be custom-built by the manufacturer. Understandably, this can also make it more difficult to find used options.
Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs)
- Total cost range: $6,000 – $35,000+
- Installation costs: $1,000 – $3,000
Unlike IPLs, VPLs don’t travel along the staircase; instead, they act as motor-driven mini-elevators that move vertically up and down next to the stairs. Their cost is highly variable, with simple porch lifts averaging between $6,000 and $18,000, while fully enclosed units can exceed $50,000. Lift height also plays a big factor here, with tall decks (up to 14 ft) being far more expensive to make accessible than short stoops.
Portable Wheelchair Lifts
- Total cost range: $2,000 – $12,000
- Installation costs: $1,000 – $3,000
If you only need a walker, scooter, or wheelchair temporarily, portable platform lifts are more affordable than permanent devices. Most models cost between $2,000 and $12,000, depending on lifting height, weight capacity, portability, and intended use (residential, vehicle, or commercial). They usually don’t require structural modifications, reducing installation costs, but the process still requires a concrete pad, an electrical connection, and weather protection.
Examples of Outdoor Wheelchair Platform Lift Costs
We’ve compared popular companies, including their models, features, and warranties, to help you find the best platform lift for your outdoor space. Most companies will provide a free quote based on your needs, and you can get additional, valuable information from user reviews.
| Brand & Model | Lift Type | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Savaria Delta | Straight IPL | – Fold-up platform – Up to 550 lb capacity – Outdoor-rated components – 3-year parts warranty | $12,000 – $25,000+ |
| Savaria Pegasus | Curved IPL | – Custom-measured rail – Up to 660 lb capacity – Foldable platform – 3-year parts warranty | $20,000 – $30,000+ |
| Garaventa X3 | Straight IPL | – Compact fold-away platform – Wall or post-mounted rail – Up to 550 lb capacity – 2-year parts warranty | $12,000 – $30,000+ |
| Garaventa Artira Outdoor | Curved IPL | – Custom configurations – Heavy-duty weather resistance – Up to 660 lb capacity – 2-year parts warranty | $18,000 – $40,000+ |
| Bruno Platform Lifts | VPL | – Low-threshold entry – All-weather durability – Up to 750 lb capacity – 2-year limited warranty | $6,000 – $15,000+ |
| Arrow Lift | VPL | – Up to 750 lb capacity – 14 ft travel distance – IPLs available – up to 3-year limited warranty | $20,000 – $40,000+ |
| Savaria Multilift | VPL | – Porch and deck lift applications – Up to 750 lb capacity – Optional enclosure available – 3-year parts warranty | $10,000 – $30,000+ |
| Garaventa Genesis Enclosure | VPL | – Factory-built enclosure – Heavy-duty vertical travel – Up to 750 lb capacity – 2-year parts warranty | $12,000 – $50,000+ |
| AmeriGlide Portable Platform Lift | Portable | – Battery-powered portability – Minimal installation needs – Up to 750 lb capacity – 2-year parts warranty | $6,000 – $10,000+ |
Financial Assistance For Outdoor Mobility Devices
Because they require weather-resistant materials, outdoor wheelchair lifts tend to be more expensive than indoor models. Luckily, you can have peace of mind knowing there are financial assistance options at your disposal:
- Health insurance: Original Medicare does not typically cover outdoor chair lifts or VPLs, but Medicare Advantage and Medicaid (through your state’s unique Home & Community-Based Services, or HCBS waivers) might be able to assist. You can also get financial support with some long-term care insurance plans.
- Veterans Benefits: If you or a loved one is a veteran, you may be able to access insurance (Veterans Directed Home and Community-Based Services, or VD-HCBS) and grants (like SAH and SHA) through the Veterans Administration. This is especially the case when your disability and mobility aid use is related to your service.
- Local nonprofits: Financial assistance varies by state and county, so look into local nonprofits like the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) and Rebuilding Together. These organizations can help seniors in need access affordable wheelchair lift services, including refurbished models. Just note that straight models with shorter lift heights are easier to find than specialized curved systems.
- Loans and financing plans: Loans can be secured through either your personal bank or the wheelchair lift manufacturer, helping you avoid high upfront costs in favor of more manageable monthly payments. Just be mindful to avoid high interest rates.
- Rebates or tax deductions: Most outdoor wheelchair lifts fall under IRS Publication 502’s list of eligible medical expenses, allowing you to reduce the amount you owe in taxes when you file.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Outdoor Wheelchair Lift Costs
Outdoor wheelchair lifts are primarily made of weather- and corrosion-resistant metals, such as steel and aluminum, and typically have a powder-coated finish to protect against the elements. Many manufacturers also offer a variety of outdoor-approved paint colors for your new lift.
Whether you should get an outdoor chair lift or VPL largely depends on the staircase. Outdoor chair lifts are a great option for a simple, straight staircase. However, VPLs are often preferred for their larger weight capacity and can be a more affordable solution for staircases with unique measurements.
Yes, essentially every outdoor wheelchair lift is manufactured to meet ADA compliance and ASME A18.1 safety standards.
The average cost of an outdoor wheelchair lift ranges from $5,000 to $35,000, with an average of $20,000. The wide price range is due to differences between straight and curved IPLs and VPLs. Additional safety features can also add to the cost.
The installation costs for a wheelchair lift range between $1,000 and $6,000, depending on the type of lift. Many portable lifts and VPLs cost less than $3,000 to install, while a curved IPL customization can raise that price to $6,000.
Yes, most outdoor wheelchair lifts use rechargeable batteries stored in weatherproof compartments. They also often have backup battery features for safety during power outages.
If you’re recovering from a surgery or illness, used options may be a great temporary solution. Sometimes you can find used wheelchair lifts through local nonprofits, but availability largely depends on the level of customization you need.
We generally don’t recommend DIY wheelchair lift installation, especially for VPLs. However, you can safely work with either the company you bought the lift from or an independent, professional installer.
Year-round outdoor wheelchair lift maintenance, such as inspections, lubrication, cleaning, and battery checks, typically costs between $100 and $500. You can help prevent costly repairs by:
• Removing dirt, leaves, and moisture from the rail and platform weekly
• Checking for rust, corrosion, or weather-related wear
• Applying weather-resistant lubrication
• Using the protective cover when the lift is not in operation
• Scheduling a professional inspection at least once per year
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