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How Much Does a Standing Stair Lift Cost?
Standing stair lifts cost $8,500 on average, depending on type, safety features, and whether it’s a new or pre-owned stair lift.
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At a glance:
- Standing stair lifts cost between $2,000 and $15,000 on average—similar pricing to the average sitting stair lift cost ($2,900 – $14,000).
- The cost of a stair lift largely depends on whether you have a curved or straight staircase, as curved rails require customization, which increases installation costs.
- While Original Medicare (Parts A and B) doesn’t usually cover standing stair lifts with curved or straight rails, you might be able to access financial assistance through Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and local nonprofit programs.
For seniors with limited mobility who want to avoid assisted living, standing stair lifts provide a small-footprint solution for safely traveling between floors. However, these lifts also have varying costs depending on type, safety features, and more. It’s important to understand the cost of any rail system before you invest.
Luckily, our team reviewed the costs of different standing stair lifts and how they compare to chair lifts. That way, seniors and their loved ones can find the best stair lift for their homes.
What Is a Standing Stair Lift?
Standing stair lifts are electric or battery-powered mobility systems that use a dedicated rail and platform to transport seniors between floors. As the name suggests, the secure platform or perch lifts you in a standing position rather than with an attached chair. They come in several types, including straight, curved, and outdoor lifts.
Pros and Cons of Standing Stair Lifts vs. Other Stair Lift Models
Standing Lifts
Pros
- Smaller footprint that fits narrow and custom staircases, at no additional cost.
- More accessibility for seniors who struggle with the transition from sitting to standing
- Faster installation in most homes due to simpler mounting and fewer components
Cons
- Lower weight capacity that typically maxes out at around 300 lbs
Seated Chair Lifts
Pros
- Higher weight capacity, with some heavy-duty lifts supporting up to 600 lbs.
- Full seated support for users who struggle with balance or endurance
- More safety features, like armrests, footrests, belts, and powered swivel seats
Cons
- Requires more space for proper installation.
Standing Stair Lift Prices By Type
Standing stair lift costs vary a lot by type, with straight lifts costing roughly one-third the price ($3,750 on average) of curved stair lifts ($11,500 on average). Curved staircases often require customization and complex installation, making them among the most expensive options. Outdoor lifts can also be expensive, as they require weather-resistant upholstery and components.
Here are the common price ranges for the different types of standing stair lifts:
| Standing stair lift type | Average price range |
|---|---|
| Straight stair lift | $2,000 – $5,500 |
| Curved stair lift | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Outdoor stair lift | $8,000 – $12,000 |
Standing Stair Lift Installation Costs
Labor for standing stair lift installation typically costs between 15% to 20% of the total cost. For instance, you might expect to pay a few hundred to just over $1,000 for a straight lift installation. The cost of a curved lift can reach $3,000 or more. You might also pay more if your system has additional safety features, a retracting rail, or speed controls.
However, we still recommend professional installation over DIY attempts, as you’re guaranteed to have a functioning system. Reach out to multiple companies for quotes and in-home consultations for peace of mind that you’re getting the best deal.
How To Cover The Cost of a Standing Stair Lift
Unfortunately, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) doesn’t cover the cost of a new or used standing stair lift, as they’re not considered Durable Medical Equipment (DME). Health insurances that are more likely to provide financial assistance include Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicaid, and some Veterans Benefits, but you must prove the installation is medically necessary.
Other methods for covering the cost of your standing stair lift include:
- VA Grants: In addition to healthcare plans, qualified veterans can access Veterans Directed Home and Community-Based Services (VD-HCBS), Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grants, and other programs that help cover the cost of medically necessary standing stair lifts.
- State-based assistance: Even if you’re not a veteran, state-specific HCBS waivers and other programs can help you cover a standing stair lift. Reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for more information.
- IRS Publication 502: This tax deduction applies to standing stair lifts, allowing you to deduct the cost as a necessary medical expense.
The Bottom Line: Should You Consider a Standing Stair Lift?
If you’re looking to install a new stair lift but are concerned about transitioning in and out of a chair, a standing stair lift provides an effective solution. They’re also more compact and faster to install, making them ideal for homes with older, narrower staircases.
Standing stair lift and seated chair lift models have similar prices, so you should decide which one is best for you based on your home layout and mobility needs. Standing stair lifts are a great option when you:
- Have limited space: Standing stair lifts are more discreet and have a smaller footprint, making them ideal for old homes with narrow or steep staircases. The slimmer profile also means they’re less likely to dominate the staircase, leaving more room for people without mobility issues to climb the stairs.
- Struggle to sit and stand back up: Seniors with certain medical issues, such as joint pain and limited leg mobility, may find it easier to stay upright while going up and down stairs than to sit and stand twice.
- Have certain mobility aids: Ideal for seniors who commonly use walkers, canes, or other mobility aids, as standing lifts reduce the number of steps required to get on and off safely.
Ultimately, determining the best stair lift model for your home depends on your mobility needs, budget, and home layout. To make sure you’re getting the best deal, always review multiple brands and installers before you commit to a solution.
Frequently Asked Questions About Standing Stair Lifts
The average cost of a standing stair lift ranges from $2,000 to $15,000, depending on the model, features, and configuration.
Standing stair lift installation usually accounts for 15% to 20% of the total cost. Depending on whether the model is straight or curved, you should expect to pay between $500 and $3,000 in labor costs.
The type of stair lift drastically affects the price: straight standing lifts cost an average of $3,750, while curved lifts cost an average of $11,500. This is largely due to customization requirements and the complexity of installation. Used stair lifts can also be cheaper, but should always be sourced from certified dealers.
Yes, many quality dealers will provide free quotes for standing stair lifts. They can also provide helpful information about measurements and staircase compatibility.
Yes, many standing stair lifts come with warranties. Always double-check with the seller before you make a purchase.
Examples of reliable stair lift companies include Bruno, Stannah, Lifeway Mobility, and Acorn Stairlifts. Luckily, we have dedicated reviews for many of these brands.
Help us improve our stair lift cost data! Email your latest standing stair lift quote to [email protected]. Your personal details will remain confidential.