How to choose the best stair lift for your home

Types of stair lifts

Stair lifts come in three main types: straight, curved and outdoor.

• “Straight stair lifts work great for straight [uninterrupted] stairways,” explained Shane Campbell, business development manager at Options HME, a stair lift dealer. “Their operation is much simpler than a curved stair lift, and they’re often much less expensive.” These models use pre-cut rails that installers adjust to your stairs’ length and incline angle. The seat angle gets set during installation and stays fixed throughout use.
• Curved stair lifts feature custom engineering for complex staircases with turns or landings. These advanced models “continuously move around corners and up levels without [needing] to stop,” explained Rebecca Smith, marketing assistant at Stannah Stairlifts. You’ll need a curved stair lift if your stairway is spiral or has pie-shaped steps.
• Outdoor stair lifts combine weather protection with mobility access to gardens and driveways. Campbell noted that these include weather-resistant motor housings to prevent the elements from entering the motor and electronics. Manufacturers use UV-resistant plastics so you can use the stair lift year-round. They also include protective covers to prevent debris buildup.

Stair lift features to consider

All stair lifts have essential safety features to keep you secure during operation. “Seat belts, obstruction sensors, remote controls and swiveling seats are standard,” Campbell explained. Look for emergency stop buttons and limit switches that prevent accidents if something blocks the track.

Beyond basic safety, consider these key features when comparing models:

• Weight capacity: Choose a lift that supports all potential users — yourself, your spouse or relatives, for example. Buy a lift with “a little extra capacity,” advised Campbell. This way, you can easily transport laundry, groceries and personal belongings.
• Power swivel seat and footrest: Smith of Stannah explained that powered features eliminate the need to bend over or balance on one foot to raise or lower the footrest. “A powered swivel offers the convenience of swiveling at the touch of a button,” she said.
• Folding seat and armrests: These keep your staircase accessible to others when you’re not using the lift, according to Smith.

Parts warranties vary between manufacturers — from three months of protection to lifetime coverage. Campbell recommended choosing a lift with at least a one-year warranty to protect your investment. Look for dealers who offer comprehensive warranty coverage that includes parts and labor.

Customization options help your stair lift blend with your home’s decor. Color options for rail finishes and upholstery may be included in the cost or available as upgrades, according to Smith. Optional add-ons typically include folding rails, key locks and advanced remote features. You might want to consider getting a seat with an adjustable height, especially if several users will share the lift.

How to choose a reputable dealer

“Choosing a reputable dealer is very important,” Campbell emphasized. “They’re not only going to perform the install, but also service your lift going forward.” Smith agreed, comparing stair lift shopping to buying a car. It’s a major mobility purchase you’ll use daily. The dealer you choose determines the quality of your installation, ongoing maintenance and long-term support.

Pro tip

Don’t fall for high-pressure sales tactics, experts warn. “[Smart] decisions are rarely made on the spot,” Campbell pointed out. Be wary of companies that call excessively or quote prices much higher or lower than competitors. Reputable dealers offer free in-home assessments, so it’s wise to get at least three estimates.

Look for these qualities when picking a dealer:

• Established track record: Choose a company that has been in business for years with consistently positive reviews.
• Professional installation: Ensure it performs its own installations rather than subcontracting the work.
• Local presence: Local dealers can provide quicker and more personalized service.
• Transparent pricing: Reputable dealers provide written quotes and explain warranty coverage clearly.

Campbell suggested checking reviews across several platforms since company websites often publish only positive testimonials. Ask friends about installation quality, pricing and ongoing service for unbiased views.

Stair lift costs

“How much does it cost?” is the first question most buyers ask when shopping for a stair lift, according to Campbell. The price depends largely on your staircase type. Straight stair lifts range from $2,000 to $8,000, including installation, while curved models start at $10,000. Outdoor stair lifts fall between $4,000 and $10,000 due to weather-resistant materials and specialized features.

Several factors ultimately affect your final cost:

• Stair type and complexity (e.g., straight versus curved with multiple turns)
• Weight capacity options (e.g., the standard 300 to 400 pounds versus high-capacity models at 600 pounds)
• Feature upgrades (e.g., power swivel seats, folding rails, custom colors)
• Installation requirements (e.g., outdoor models need weather protection)

Given steep stair lift costs, many buyers wonder about financial assistance. Campbell pointed out that Medicare won’t pay for stair lifts — it classifies them as home modifications, not medical equipment.

However, several options can help you afford a stair lift:

• Long-term care insurance: Some plans include coverage for stair lifts and mobility equipment.
• Veterans Affairs assistance: Qualifying veterans may receive coverage through Home Improvement and Structural Alterations (HISA) grants or Aid and Attendance benefits. Contact your VA representative to determine eligibility.
• Medicaid: Coverage is contingent on meeting certain Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver requirements.
• Local programs: Some states and municipalities offer mobility grants for accessibility modifications.

Additionally, most dealers offer financing options to make your purchase more manageable. Many provide in-house financing or can recommend approved lenders who specialize in medical equipment loans. Smith noted that reputable dealers also offer refurbished stair lifts at reduced prices and rental options for short-term needs.

» MORE: Stair lift costs

Stair lift testing and comfort

“The best way to test a stair lift for comfort and fit is to try it out in person,” Smith advised. Visiting a showroom allows you to explore every model, feature and option. Many dealerships display several manufacturers’ models, so you get a comprehensive comparison in one place. Your sales advisor should guide you through each stair lift and answer your questions.

Take your time

Don’t rush the testing process or decide based on price alone. Finding the right fit is paramount since you’ll use your stair lift daily for years. Some users prefer cushioned seats, while others need firm support — the best stair lift combines your personal comfort preferences with essential safety features.

Weigh these critical comfort factors during your test-drive:

• Control accessibility for both seated operation and remote use
• Ease of getting on and off, including swivel functionality
• Footrest height and leg support for your mobility needs
• Seat dimensions and padding that support your body type

Testing at least a handful of models will help you identify features that truly matter for your daily use. Each manufacturer designs differently. Some prioritize wider seats, while others focus on compact profiles. Brands vary in control placement, seat materials and swivel mechanisms. Take time to experience each model’s unique characteristics during your showroom visit.