The short version: Straight stair lifts run $3,000-$7,000. Curved $9,000-$20,000. The gap is the custom-built rail. Plan for an extra $300-$700 in code-related upgrades. Used straight lifts cut cost in half; used curved lifts almost never work.
Realistic 2026 cost ranges
| Configuration | Cost installed |
|---|---|
| Straight stairs, basic chair | $3,000-$5,000 |
| Straight stairs, premium chair (Stannah, Bruno Elite) | $5,000-$8,000 |
| Curved stairs, single turn | $9,000-$13,000 |
| Curved stairs, two or more turns | $14,000-$20,000 |
| Outdoor straight | $4,500-$8,500 |
| Spiral / unusual configurations | $15,000-$25,000+ |
Why curved costs more
A straight stair lift uses a 12-foot aluminum rail extrusion cut to length on install day. Same rail works on any straight stair.
A curved stair lift uses a rail manufactured specifically for your staircase. The dealer measures the stair with a laser jig (often DSL precision), the data goes to the manufacturer, and the rail is fabricated 6-8 weeks later. Each rail fits one staircase only.
That custom fabrication is most of the price difference.
Hidden costs
- Electrical outlet at top of stairs: code-required for the unit. $150-$400 if missing.
- Permit: $50-$200 in most jurisdictions.
- Existing handrail removal: $100-$300 if it interferes.
- Step nose modification: rare but possible if treads are narrow.
- Outdoor weatherproofing: $500-$1,500 for exterior stair lifts.
Get all of these in the written quote upfront. Surprise change orders mid-install are a sign of poor contracting.
Used and refurbished options
For straight stairs, used and refurbished stair lifts are a meaningful saving:
- Used (1-3 years old): $1,500-$3,000. Often resold by stair lift dealers.
- Refurbished by dealer: $2,000-$3,500 with new battery, full inspection, often 1-year warranty.
- Used third-party: lowest cost but no install, no warranty.
For curved stairs, used is rarely viable, the rail won’t fit your specific staircase.
Always include a service contract with used purchases. About $200-$400/year buys peace of mind.
Coverage and grants
- Original Medicare: no.
- Medicare Advantage: some plans cover, $500-$2,500.
- Medicaid HCBS waivers: cover stair lifts for income-eligible seniors in many states.
- VA HISA grant: $2,000 general, $6,800 service-connected disabled.3
For specific state coverage, see senior programs by state.
What to do next
For straight stairs: get quotes from Acorn and Bruno dealers. See best stair lifts of 2026.
For curved stairs: measure your staircase first so you can sanity-check what the dealer reports, then get measurements from 2 dealers. The 6-8 week fabrication lead time means plan ahead.
For the broader decision, see stair lift vs walk-in tub: which to install first.
- Straight $3,000-$8,000. Curved $9,000-$20,000. Gap is the custom rail.
- Add $300-$700 for code-related extras.
- Used straight lifts at $1,500-$3,000 are realistic.
- Curved lifts rarely worth buying used, rail is custom.