Best Stair Lift Companies of 2026

Here are some steps to get started choosing the right stair lift for your needs.

1. Understand your current environment: It’s a good idea to have a home survey done, so a consultant can measure the space, as well as the incline. Most stair lifts can be installed on stair widths of 28 to 33 inches at a minimum. Stair lifts can accommodate a range of staircase inclines, ranging from about 27 to 48 degrees, but some can fit a greater incline for steep staircases.

Stair lifts are battery-powered, typically with rechargeable batteries, and work in the event of a power outage.

2. Compare stair lift companies: Contact different companies to get estimates on the best stair lifts and compare those prices to find the best deal. Check reviews, compare specifications and get quotes. When getting a quote, be sure to ask about installer credentials, service response time and warranty transferability.

3. Prep your home for stair lift installation: Let the company representative come out to get the most accurate measurements and perform the installation. On average, installation fees can range from $500 to $2,000.

Installation for a straight stair lift can often be completed in a single visit and typically takes two to four hours. Curved stair lifts take longer. Manufacturing can take a few weeks, and installation may take several hours to a full day, depending on complexity.

Stair lifts for narrow or steep staircases

Homes with narrow or steep staircases can still accommodate a stair lift. Look for stair lifts with folding seats, armrests and footrests that take up minimal space when the lift is not in use if your stairs are narrow. Also, look for a hinged track to avoid blocking doorways or hallways. Steep staircases may require a custom rail, higher weight capacity or specialized drive system, but they can still accommodate a lift.

Stair lifts can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $22,000. The price of a curved stair lift falls on the higher end of that range because they have to be custom built and are more complicated to install. Keep in mind, the cost doesn’t include the modifications you may need to make to your home in order to accommodate a stair lift.

Outdoor stair lifts are typically more expensive than indoor stair lifts because of the additional components required for weather-proofing, says Pete Newstrom, vice president at Arrow Lift.

There are some additional features of stair lifts that can increase their price, including:

• Power-swivel seats, so you can rotate to get on or off easier

• Upgraded upholstery or cushioning for added comfort

• Hinged rails that fold out of the way to prevent tripping

• Remote control to call the lift from the top or bottom of the staircase

Stair lift rental costs

Renting a stair lift can cost between $80 and $600 a month, depending on the lift’s features and the nature of your staircase. This doesn’t include the cost of installation and removal, which can cost from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

Older adults who experience difficulty with their balance could benefit from stair lifts.

“Anyone whose balance might be compromised by neurological, physical or even psychological reasons could benefit from a stair lift,” said Jerilyn Callen, program director of the entry-level occupational therapy doctorate program at the University of Oklahoma. According to Callen, stair lifts can help people with certain health conditions that impact the ability to balance while walking on stairs, including:

• Parkinson’s disease

• Multiple sclerosis

• Dementia

• Arthritis

• Vision impairments

• Spinal cord injuries

There are several pros and cons of stair lifts and other considerations to keep in mind when purchasing, Callen said. If you live alone and use a mobility device like a wheelchair, walker or cane, you’ll need to think about your setup at the top or bottom of the stairs.

“Once you’re up the lift, what’s the setup?” she asked. “Is there a wheelchair at the top of the stairs you may need ready? Are there long hallways to get down?”

As an occupational therapist, Callen has seen people get stuck on stair lifts during power outages. Having a backup battery helps prevent this from happening, but it may add to the stair lift’s cost. Batteries also have to be charged regularly to ensure they can be used during a power outage.

Stair lift batteries will take on average eight to 12 hours to fully charge from no battery charge. But this depends on how often you use it, how long the track is, and the weight being placed on the lift. Stair lifts can charge themselves when plugged in and stationary at the top or bottom of a staircase.

Pros and cons of stair lifts

Stair lifts come in multiple styles and configurations to match your staircase and mobility needs. Most stair lifts have a maximum weight of between 300 and 600 pounds, but manufacturers also offer bariatric stair lifts with wider seats and reinforced rails for users who need higher capacities. Here are some of the more common home stair lift variations.

You can pay for a stair lift by financing it or getting assistance from local or veteran grants if you’re eligible. Typically, stair lifts aren’t covered by insurance. Likewise, Medicare doesn't offer coverage as it considers stair lifts to be home modifications and not durable medical equipment. Medicaid may cover a stair lift installation in some circumstances; rules vary by state.

Most people pay for a stair lift using a mix of savings, financing or grants, since insurance and Medicare rarely cover the cost.

A Medicare Advantage plan might cover some of the cost of a stair lift if you have a prescription from your health care provider stating that one is medically necessary. However, Callen cautioned that as an occupational therapist, she has written many letters of necessity and has had little success in getting coverage for stair lifts.

If you are a veteran, you may be able to receive assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for a stair lift.

While researching companies, ask each about any available discounts. Callen also recommended reaching out to community programs — your health care team can help facilitate this. Some stair lift companies offer financing options to help you pay for one. Ask the stair lift company about these options when you get a quote.

Your stair lift and its maintenance might be tax deductible as a medical expense. See the IRS website for more information.

Local grants and financial assistance for stair lifts

Community grant programs can make stair lift installation feasible. One of the largest resources is HUD's Older Adult Home Modification Program, which serves homeowners or renters aged 62 and older. Although the typical budget is $5,000 per home, occupational therapists directing the work can approve higher-cost structural upgrades—such as licensed stair-lift installations—when they are critical for preventing falls and supporting aging in place.

Because funds are awarded locally, start with your Area Agency on Aging or county housing office to learn when applications open and what documentation (income verification, proof of residence, OT assessment) you'll need.

Approved projects cover the cost of licensed contractors, required environmental reviews and even temporary relocation if safety demands it, with a follow-up inspection scheduled within a month to confirm the stair lift's safe operation. If your locality is not participating, ask trusted nonprofits, VA service officers and rehab hospitals about smaller home-modification grants that mirror HUD guidelines.

Charitable programs such as StairLift For Vets and Rebuilding Together can also help with resources for getting a stair lift.

Grants for veterans

Veterans may be eligible for a VA Home Improvement grant. Disabled veterans can apply for either a Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant, or Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grant. SAH grants have a higher maximum amount, but are reserved for more severe disabilities.

Home Improvement and Structural Alterations (HISA) grants through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can provide veterans with either a $2,000 or $6,800 grant to modify their home because of a disability.

When deciding between buying vs renting, consider your budget, your mobility, any limitations you have and how long you anticipate needing a stair lift.

There are pros and cons of both buying and renting a stair lift.

Buying a stair lift

Renting a stair lift

Buying a refurbished stair lift

Buying a refurbished stair lift offers a lower cost option, is more environmentally friendly and may be more readily available than a new model. If you decide to go with a refurbished model, it’s best to buy a stair lift from a legitimate company. If there’s an issue, you will unfortunately not have a warranty.

When you start comparing quotes, you’ll generally see two ways stair lifts are sold and installed: national stair lift companies and local mobility dealers. The right choice depends less on the brand name and more on who will measure, customize, install and service the lift in your area.

Consider a national company if you want a one-stop quote process, need financing or prefer a larger organization’s customer support structure. Consider a local dealer if you prioritize hands-on installation quality, want a clear service relationship or have a tricky staircase that may require more customization.

No matter which route you choose, ask who will physically install the lift (employee vs. subcontractor), what training they have, how service calls are handled locally and what the typical repair response time is in your area.

Most stair lifts are equipped with a variety of safety and comfort features to protect you against falls or injuries. Some of the important safety features of stair lifts include:

• Safety sensors: Stair lifts can contain sensors that search for obstacles in the device's path, such as items left on the steps. The sensors automatically turn off the device, and it won’t move until the obstacles are removed.

• Seat belts: Stair lifts move slowly, but it’s a good idea to buckle up to prevent falls or injuries when you use one.

• Tracks: Stair lifts use a track to move up and down the staircase at a slow speed. Tracks are usually mounted to the wall next to the stairs or to the stairway tread.

• Foldable seat and footrest: These features are designed for those who have narrow stairs or a minimal amount of space around the staircase.

• Hinged track: This allows the track at the bottom of the stairs to fold away to avoid a tripping hazard when the stair lift is at the top of the staircase.

• Controls: You can control the movement and speed of the chair lift by pressing buttons or maneuvering a joystick on the armrest. Some stair lifts have a remote control that you can use if you need to call the chair up or down the stairs.

• Backup batteries: These batteries keep stair lifts operational when the power supply is inconsistent, like during power outages. Stair lift batteries last on average one to three years before they need to be replaced. Unless covered under a service plan or warranty, expect to pay around $200 to $300.

• Swivel chairs: Designed for both safety and comfort, swivel lift chairs help you easily get into the chair. Swivel chairs can rotate about 24 to 30 inches, depending on the brand and type of stair lift.

The stair lift you choose should contain as many safety features as possible. Make sure your stair lift is installed properly and that your staircase is sturdy and large enough to fit the stair lift you desire.