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- Price for straight: $3,000 starting price before installation
- Price for curved: $9,500 starting price before installation
- Environment: Indoor and outdoor
- Weight capacity: Up to 400 pounds (lbs)
- Financing: Depends on dealer
The 5 Best Stair Lifts: Our Experience in 2024
Oct 10, 2024
Fact Checked
We selected the best stair lifts from brands like Bruno, Lifeway Mobility, Harmar, Access BDD, AmeriGlide, and Stannah based on price, customization, and other features.
Key Takeaways
- Our pick for the best stair lift is the Bruno because it has an excellent reputation among dealers nationwide for its customer service and lift quality.
- A good stair lift brand offers safety features to protect you and surrounding people, various lift options to fit your home and mobility needs, and a fair starting price.
- In our review, straight stair lifts start at roughly $3,000, while curved stair lifts start at around $7,000.
- Stair lifts benefit many people with mobility issues, including older adults with arthritis or general weakness from health conditions.
- If you’re concerned about your falls risk, be sure to talk to your doctor, physical therapist, or occupational therapist for ways to improve safe mobility and independence.
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Best Overall
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Comfortable, high-quality stair lifts •
Available for purchase all over the country •
Indoor and outdoor models available Our Top Pick
For many of us, stairs become more challenging over time. When climbing flights of stairs becomes too much, moving to a new home isn’t always the solution. Instead, home modifications can allow you to safely stay in your home without going through a costly and difficult move.
Home modifications, like wheelchair ramps and grab bars, and devices like medical alert systems with fall detection, give us more ways to stay safer at home. Stair lifts are another home modification that can help provide a safe way to go up and down stairs.
Stair lift chairs are motorized seats that travel on a rail securely bolted to your steps, making it easier for those with mobility or other issues to move between floors with less risk of falls. Stair lifts run along a metal track (straight or curved, depending on your staircase) installed on your staircase (indoors or outdoors), and have a seat, armrest, footrest, and safety belt that allows the user to ride up or down the stairs comfortably and safely.
To help you stay safer in your home, our Reviews Team researched the best home stair lifts that can keep you independent in 2024 and beyond.
Best stair lifts in 2024
- Bruno: Best Stair Lift Overall
- Lifeway Mobility: Best Stair Lift Dealer
- Harmar: Most Supportive Stair Lift
- Stannah: Best Stair Lift for Older Adults
- AmeriGlide: Best Value Stair Lift
What we look for in stair lifts
We found several important factors when testing stair lifts, including:
Price
Stair lifts are a big purchase, but we chose models with starting prices between $3,000–$4,000 for straight lifts and below $10,000 for curved lifts (before installation).
Easy-to-use features
We prioritized brands that offer user-friendly features and add-ons, like a power swivel or fold-up function, to accommodate a range of mobility needs.
Safety
All the lifts in our review offer key features, like sensors that detect obstacles and swivel seats at the top of the stairs, to keep you and others safe.
Chair options
Our review includes brands with various chair options, like the Harmar Pinnacle (which can carry up to 600 pounds) or the Stannah Sadler (which has a perched seat).
Bruno: Best Stair Lift Overall
Bruno
Best Overall
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We chose Bruno as the “Best Stair Lift Overall” because of its product quality and great reputation among stair lift dealers. Our Reviews Team found most dealers carry Bruno products and often recommend them to customers for their reliability. Best Overall
Our expert take on Bruno stair lifts
Bruno has won several innovation awards for its products, including the Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Award, New Product Innovation, and has been in business for more than 40 years. According to our team’s research, many dealers across the United States carry this brand because it creates reputable and reliable lifts.
Our team was able to test the Elan and Elite models. The Elan is the most basic straight stair lift model, with easy-to-use joystick controls and a foldaway seat. We liked how the lift went just the right speed without jolting and had a long seat belt to adapt to many body types. Since it’s a standard model, it only has a gray and white seat design.
If you want a sleek-looking stair lift with a higher weight limit (400 pounds), the Elite stair lift is a better choice. We like how it can be designed for indoor or outdoor use and also on curved staircases. These models offer more customization options, like extra-long add-ons for nearly any staircase. The track’s vertical profile for single and double rails takes up less space than competitor designs while keeping the ride smooth and quiet, even around turns.
If you have a staircase with doorways at either landing, its folding rail allows you to fold the track out of the way so it’s not a tripping hazard. All Bruno stair lift chairs fold away and park over a charging station on either side of the staircase.
Bruno stair lifts also have standard safety features, including retractable seat belts, a manual or power swivel (turn) up to 90 degrees at the end of your ride for a safe exit, and obstruction sensors to avoid hitting obstacles. The rechargeable batteries that power the stair lift last 10 round trips in the event of a power outage. You also get two wireless remotes to call the seat if it’s on the other side of the stairs, so you’re not stranded at the top while the seat is at the bottom.
Our tester on Bruno:
“When we went to a showroom to test the Elan and Elite models, we liked that the Elite was more aesthetically pleasing than some other lifts we’ve tested. The chairs are padded and comfortable, and we loved how easy it is to fold the chair out of the way. You just lift the seat and a high-pressure lift will raise it up.”
The installation process depends on the dealer, although we discovered many dealers are the same. They typically send a professional to your home to take measurements and evaluate your unique needs. They will walk you through your options and calculate an exact quote. Installation can range from $500 to $2,000 and depends on several factors, including where you live, whether your stairs are straight or curved, and model type.
Once you make a purchase, the dealer will order the stair lift and work with you to schedule its installation. Bruno straight tracks can be installed several days after purchase, while curved tracks must be custom-made and take three to four weeks.
Indoor models come with a limited lifetime warranty. The lift’s major parts (motor, gearbox, drive train, and rails) are covered during the entire life of the product, while other components (seat parts and controls) are covered for two years. Labor costs for warrantied parts are covered for 30 days. The extent of this combined warranty on major and minor parts is not typical in the industry.
If you purchase an outdoor model, you get a five-year warranty on major parts in place of the limited lifetime warranty.
Our stair lift expert’s take
Who may love it
- Those looking for a basic stair lift with key safety features included
- Older adults with a variety of mobility needs
- People who want to try their lift in person before purchasing (Bruno is available in dealer showrooms across the country)
Who may want to avoid it
- Tall people who want a taller seat height and back for comfort or safety
- Those who need more than a 400-pound weight limit
Customer reviews
Bruno has a testimonial page on its website listing a few reviews from its customers pictured on their stair lifts. Most people reported being happy that they (or a family member) can safely navigate their stairs, allowing them to remain independent in their own homes.
“We are so happy to have this Bruno stairlift in our two-story home! Our staircase has several turns, and the lift moves smoothly around each corner. It is quiet, simple to use, and feels so safe! We are so happy to be able to sleep in our own bed upstairs again!”
— Hal and Barbara M., Bruno reviewer
“They came out the same day I called them to give me an estimate and were able to schedule the installation around my schedule. My mother moved in with me and the stairlift has been a saving grace for her to get up and down the stairs. First-rate service, product and company. I could not recommend them any higher. If you need a stair lift, these are the people to use.
— Craig S., Bruno reviewer
Lifeway Mobility: Best Stair Lift Dealer
Lifeway Mobility
Best Stairlift Dealer
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Our Reviews Team chose Lifeway Mobility as the “Best Stair Lift Dealer” for its variety of products and good reputation. In addition to stair lifts, the company offers wheelchair lifts, ramps, home elevators, transfer systems, and other safety products designed to help people live independently.
Our expert take on Lifeway Mobility
Lifeway Mobility is a home modifications dealer with a wide selection of straight and curved stair lifts for indoor and outdoor use from reputable brands, including popular models from Bruno and Harmar. Our team likes that the dealer offers professional installation, warranty coverage, and service after installation. Installation can range from $500 to $2,000 and depends on several factors, including where you live, whether your stairs are straight or curved, and model type.
According to our survey of 600 recent stair lift customers, people who bought their lift through a specialty mobility retailer (like Lifeway) had a higher satisfaction rate than buying from other third-party retailers, like Home Depot.
We spoke to the team at Lifeway Mobility to understand their purchase process. First, you begin by scheduling a free, in-home evaluation. This can be scheduled online via the website’s free quote form or with a free consultation at any Lifeway Mobility location. A stair lift expert will meet with you in person or virtually to learn more about your needs, take measurements, and offer recommendations. You can expect a free quote within a few days. Lifeway Mobility currently has showrooms in 28 states. If you live in one of these states, you can visit a showroom to test a stair lift in person.
Our tester on Lifeway Mobility
“Unfortunately, Lifeway doesn’t (yet) service the entire nation. I like that they have showrooms in almost every state where they service. It’s worth visiting one to discuss your needs, test the equipment yourself, and make sure it works for you.”
Lifeway Mobility team members can answer any questions as you consider your options. After the lift is purchased, you’ll be contacted to schedule the date and time of installation. Factory-trained technicians will install the lift and show you how to operate it safely. According to Lifeway Mobility, straight rail models take two to three hours to install, while curved rail models generally need an extra hour to ensure the custom-made rails fit securely.
Warranties are offered for all new stair lift models sold and installed by Lifeway Mobility, but coverage varies depending on the product model. Our team appreciates that this dealer offers a three-year warranty on parts and a one-year labor warranty on all new lifts they sell and install, but coverage for other parts depends on the model. Make sure you understand and agree with the warranty terms before buying.
We also appreciate that Lifeway Mobility offers a year of free service and battery replacement for peace of mind. If you want preventive maintenance, you can purchase a maintenance program when you buy your lift.
Our stair lift expert’s take
Who may love it
- People who want to compare stair lift options
- Those who want to explore other home accessibility products
Who may want to avoid it
- People who are not in the dealer’s service states
- Those looking for durable medical equipment to address mobility issues, like walkers or wheelchairs
Customer reviews
Lifeway Mobility has a page on its website dedicated to sharing real customer testimonials. Most testimonials are accompanied by a video telling their story. Below are a few takeaways from the reviews.
“Coming home was a big adjustment, but coming home with the stair lift there made the transition very smooth. It made all of us feel secure and got him back upstairs to his bedroom and shower. […] ”
— Robert, Lifeway Mobility reviewer
“I always knew the stair lift would solve the problem, but I didn’t know how easy it would be with the landing and stairs going in two directions. Without it, I wasn’t able to get out, but now I can use the two chairs to safely get to the garage and into the car. […]”
— Vera, Lifeway Mobility reviewer
If you’d like to explore other home mobility options, check out our best wheelchair lift review.
Harmar: Most Supportive Stair Lift
Harmar
Most Supportive
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Harmar is our Reviews Team’s pick for “Most Supportive Stair Lift” because the SL600 HD Pinnacle model is the only stair lift on the market that can fit any body shape up to 600 pounds.
Our expert take on Harmar
Harmar sells a variety of products, from vehicle lifts to home wheelchair platforms. The brand develops mobility products to address diverse needs—and home stair lifts are no exception.
The company’s newest line of straight stair lifts, the Pinnacle models, includes the SL600HD model, which can hold up to 600 pounds. This is the highest weight limit our team has seen in our research. We also like its high back support, extra-wide rechargeable swivel chair, and padded seat to ensure comfort and support during your ride. Harmar rechargeable lifts can last up to 60 rides during a power outage.
Our tester on Harmar:
“When we went into a local dealer to test the Harmar stair lifts, we really liked the Pinnacle design. Its seat folded up easier than Bruno and has a lot of back support and cushion. But the safety sensor isn’t automatically included with the lift—you have to add that on yourself, especially if you have grandchildren or pets that might get in the way.”
But after further research, we found that higher weight capacities have some tradeoffs. Most other models can travel around 70 feet, but the SL600HD model will only safely support 40 feet of travel. Higher weight capacities aren’t always safe on curved tracks, so it’s difficult to find a curved stair lift that can work for all body shapes. The Harmar curved stair lift model, the Helix, can carry up to 350 pounds but does not have the same comfort options, like high back support or a wider padded seat.“It’s hard to find brands that have high-backed seats. Most seats cut off mid-back, which is uncomfortable. High back support can be really helpful if someone needs the extra trunk support,” said Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L, an occupational therapist based in Rochester, New York.
Harmar is sold almost exclusively at dealers nationwide. You can search the online directory by entering the product you want, your ZIP code, and the mile radius you’re willing to travel to find your nearest certified dealer. Lifeway Mobility sells Harmar stair lifts, so if you have a nearby location, try starting there.
Each dealer has their own purchase process, but most dealers who spoke with our Reviews Team specified that they would send an agent to your home to measure your staircase and present your options with a free quote. If you choose to move forward, you will work with the dealer to arrange the installation, but the timeline varies between dealers depending on your track shape. All custom tracks are manufactured in the Harmar Florida facility, so curved lifts could take a few weeks.
You can also find Harmar products with online dealers and retailers, like AmeriGlide and Spinlife, at starting prices as low as $3,515. Both offer financing options, although you must purchase professional installation services separately.
When you purchase a Harmar stair lift, you also get a warranty that varies between products. The Pinnacle SL300 and SL600 models come with a two-year parts warranty, a 10-year gear warranty, and a one-year battery coverage. The SL600 HD model has 10-year coverage on the gear rack, two-year coverage on all other parts, and one-year coverage on the battery.
The Helix curved stair lift includes a limited lifetime warranty on major parts (like the drive system and structural components), a two-year warranty on parts, and a one-year warranty on the battery. The UP lift is similar but only has five-year coverage on major components.
Our stair lift expert’s take
Who may love it
- People who need higher weight limits on their stair lift
- Those who need a taller seat back for comfort and safety
- Older adults with mobility issues who may want to consider other home modifications
Who may want to avoid it
- People who want the higher weight limit but need longer rails (only 40 feet of travel allowed for the SL600HD)
- People who want a straight lift but also want to customize their lift’s upholstery to match their home (only available for curved lifts)
Customer reviews
Harmar doesn’t have many testimonials on the company website or on third-party review websites, so it’s difficult to gauge customer satisfaction. The few reviews on the website are from customers who said they feel safer and more mobile with their new lift.
“I couldn’t be happier with the Pinnacle stair chair. I’m so glad I made this choice for my home. I feel safe going up and down the stairs again, and it’s never in the way for my grandkids!”
— Dolores, Harmer reviewer
“[My stairlift is probably one of the best purchases I’ve made in the last five years. My knees don’t ache as much now that I can just ride up and down between floors. Not to mention, it’s very easy to use.”
— Marshall, Harmar reviewer
Stannah: Best Stair Lift for Older Adults
Stannah
Best Option for Arthritis
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Stannah offers customizable stair lift designs that can adapt to older adults, earning us our “Best Stair Lift for Older Adults” pick. We love how many options can be designed to fit your home and your comfort or mobility needs. One lift in particular, the Sadler, is a perched-seat design that allows you to lean against the chair safely. This helps people with back, hip, or knee pain so they don’t have to squat in and out of a chair every time they use the lift.
Our expert take on the Stannah
After visiting a local dealer to test Stannah stair lifts and researching the brand’s options, our team loved how the brand caters to older adults looking for customizable chairs to fit their home and mobility needs. We appreciate that its stair lifts are designed with safety in mind. Obstruction sensors are included at no extra cost, and certain designs have extra safety features. For example, the Starla has a pitched seat design and pressure sensors to keep you safe in your chair during your ride. We found that the ergonomic toggle controls have about a three-second delay before starting, stopping, or changing direction to prevent jerking or accidental movement.
Our tester on Stannah
“I like the seat belt design for Stannah stair lifts. Most models have an easy-to-use retractable seat belt that I could fasten with one hand. It’s great for people with dexterity issues from conditions like arthritis.”
While Stannah sells many standard stair lift designs similar to other brands with swivel seats and remote call systems, the brand also offers design options to help ease pressure on joints. The Sadler stair lift is an adjustable seat, about barstool height, allowing you to lean on it comfortably during your ride without squatting. The seat is non-slip, so you should feel supported at all times. For added safety, Stannah uses an immobilizer seat belt, which must be locked in before the stair lift will operate. Our team likes this unique option because it caters to people with back, hip, or knee pain who find squatting low difficult.
Unlike most stair lift companies, Stannah offers the option to rent a stair lift. After six months of renting, you can continue renting or purchase as part of a rent-to-own program. This allows you to spread out the initial cost of a stair lift. Stannah also offers refurbished stair lifts, which the company checks, tests, and reconditions to ensure safety.
When shopping through this brand, you can buy online or through a local dealer. To buy a new or reconditioned lift or rent a lift online, you first have to see if Stannah technicians are available in your area. Select the ‘Explore our products’ button at the top of the page to begin. You’ll be asked to enter your ZIP code and follow the prompts, which we found user-friendly, with in-depth explanations of options and transparent pricing.
Stannah lets you opt into an exclusive online Deluxe Package for an extra $795. This upgrade includes an automatic power swivel and access to 32 different fabric options. Before you check out, you’ll be prompted to book a survey visit for professional measurements.
You’ll need to contact a representative to order the Sadler or outdoor stair lift or get help measuring your staircase. You can do so by calling Stannah customer service or submitting your information on the Get a Quote page online. The brand will send a sales advisor to survey your staircase, measure it, and discuss your quote for free.
Once your order is finalized, Stannah will schedule the installation. Straight stair lifts are delivered in about eight business days, but curved stair lifts take three to four weeks because of the custom manufacturing process. But installation itself takes only a few hours.
You also have the option to buy Stannah stair lifts from a dealer, which may have its own purchase process, although most are similar to the Stannah in-home process.
Every Stannah stair lift also comes with a warranty, but only if you register your stair lift online within 30 days of purchase. Stannah offers a 12-month warranty on labor and 24-month warranty on parts. You also get lifetime coverage for the motor, gearbox, and rail. Service and parts are also covered during a rental term, but you do not get the same warranty with a reconditioned lift. Instead, it only gets 12-month coverage for parts and labor with a 10-year warranty on the motor, gearbox, and rail.
Our stair lift expert’s take
Who may love it
- Adults with painful conditions looking for easy-to-use safety features
- Those who are looking for a standing stair lift may like the Sadler option
- People who want to customize their stair lift to fit the style of their home
- Those looking for purchase options
Who may want to avoid it
- People who need a weight limit beyond 300–350 pounds
- Those looking for a basic design might find lower starting prices with another brand
Customer reviews
Stannah is transparent about customer satisfaction on its website reviews page. It links to third-party sites, like Trustpilot, which has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars and many customers who had a positive experience with the sales and installation process.
“From sales to installation, the process with Stannah Stairlift was smooth and seamless. The installer arrived on time and was professional, efficient and very neat. Most importantly, the stairlift works great!”
— Colleen S., verified buyer on May 12, 2024
“The whole experience was great. Everyone involved was very nice and knew the product.”
— Christine, verified buyer on May 17, 2024
AmeriGlide: Best Value Stair Lift
AmeriGlide
Most Affordable
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Our Reviews Team selected AmeriGlide as the “Best Value Stair Lift” because the brand offers starting prices significantly lower than other brands. The starting price for the AmeriGlide straight lift is the lowest on this list, by about $1,000, and financing options are available.
Our expert take on AmeriGlide
Purchasing a stair lift through AmeriGlide is a unique experience compared to other manufacturers. Most manufacturers distribute their stair lifts through dealers, but with AmeriGlide, you can purchase straight from the brand’s factory online, removing the middleman and potentially saving you money. They also sell other home accessibility solutions, like platform lifts and elevators.
This brand offers straight stair lifts at a starting price of roughly $1,500 without installation costs (see below for approximate installation costs) and curved lifts at a starting price of $7,199 including installation. These prices are significantly lower than those of other brands we reviewed.
If you purchase directly from AmeriGlide, you’ll need to provide the measurements listed below, or you can choose the Measurement Service, which costs $150. If you decide to measure yourself, AmeriGlide offers a Staircase Measuring Guide. Although we like how they give you the tools to do this yourself, our testers think it’s easy to make a mistake. It may be better to pay the $150 for AmeriGlide’s professional help.
AmeriGlide stair lifts are sold with basic features: a rechargeable swivel stair lift chair that lasts 60 rides during a power outage, obstacle sensors, a track, a charging station, and two wireless remotes to call the lift. Our Reviews Team appreciates the lower initial cost, but add-ons, like longer track length at either landing, longer brackets for a more secure track and steadier ride, and folding rails to fit doors that block landings, will raise the price.
Our tester on AmeriGlide
“In speaking to customer service, we found out that the Rave 2 is the most recommended design. If people are trying to save as much money as possible, they could install the lift themselves, although I think most people should hire a professional to make sure it’s installed safely.”
While you could install the popular Rave 2 model yourself, it’s best to hire a professional. This can add between $599–$749 to your checkout price for that model. Curved stair lifts require professional installation, which is included in the cost. It takes a few weeks to manufacture and ship all stair lifts, but installation should only take a few hours. See below for an overview of AmeriGlide installation costs (add $150 to the installation charge in New York, Massachusetts, and Illinois). Shipping costs range from $225 for a straight lift to $2,595–$2,999 for a curved lift.
- Self-installation: Free
- Nationwide installation: $599
- Nationwide installation and measurement service: $749
- Double stair lift installation service: $437.50 (per stair lift)
- Stair lift removal and disposal: $499
The AmeriGlide warranty includes 30 days for batteries, two years for parts like circuit boards, and five years for the drive train (motor and gearbox) and gears.
Our stair lift expert’s take
Who may love it
- People who want affordable, basic options
- Anyone with a handy background who can save money by self-installing (although we don’t recommend it)
- Shoppers looking for other affordable home accessibility products
Who may want to avoid it
- People who want more customization
Customer reviews
AmeriGlide has a testimonials page featuring many customer stories, some with images of their lifts in their home. Many people who shopped for themselves or a family member said they’re happy with the result, reporting successful installation and greater independence.
“Just wanted to say thank you for the quick service. The lift is installed and works great and has taken the burden of climbing steps off of me.”
— Curtis, AmeriGlide reviewer
“We are very happy with the great quality of the AmeriGlide stair lift. The stair lift was very easy to install and the support from your company was outstanding. The stair lift has greatly reduced the stress of climbing stairs and made mobility easier. Thank you”
— Rodney F., AmeriGlide reviewer
The following brands didn’t make our top picks, but they might still be worth considering.
Acorn stair lifts
Acorn is a popular stair lift company with a good online reputation among third-party review sites. According to our survey of 600 stair lift customers, Acorn was one of the most popular brands purchased, with about 82% of people feeling satisfied with their lift overall. It offers straight, curved, and outdoor lifts, including an “HD” model that can carry up to 350 pounds. Unfortunately, this brand is the only one in our research that doesn’t provide a general sense of pricing on their website for transparency.
Although Acorn is a popular choice among shoppers, it doesn’t have a good reputation among dealers. When we visited our local dealer and asked about brands, they said Acorn wasn’t always transparent about their online customer reviews. For this reason, Acorn doesn’t make our top list, but we think they’re worth considering since many survey participants reported being satisfied with their lift.
To learn more, read our Acorn stair lift review
Arrow Lift
Arrow Lift is a smaller company that sells stair lifts and home elevators. Although its website doesn’t display options online, customer service told us that the company has showrooms in select cities where it conducts most of its business. If you live near one of its locations, it’s worth visiting the company’s tailored options in person. Arrow Lift currently only services California, Minnesota, Iowa, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
Arrow Lift stair lifts can cost between $2,500–$6,000 for a straight lift and start at $10,000 for a basic custom curved lift. These prices include professional installation, warranty coverage, and any permits or inspections that are required.
How we research and test stair lifts
Our Reviews Team has dedicated more than 200 hours to evaluating mobility products like stair lifts. We consulted at least six health care professionals and mobility experts, tested roughly 20 brands, and visited seven dealers to research and test products. We’ve also surveyed 1,200 recent buyers to understand their experiences shopping for a patient lift, including stair lifts and Hoyer lifts.
We test lifts in person using an 18-step procedure to evaluate each one’s characteristics, including seat dimensions, remote functionality, user friendliness of features, and other aspects many shoppers consider, according to our survey results.
We choose the best stair lift brands based on their test scores in the most important criteria. We identified the most important criteria based on our survey results and conversations with mobility experts.
See how we tested the most important considerations for this review below.
Price
Stair lifts are a hefty investment and aren’t covered by insurance. All of the options in our list have fair starting prices for the industry (between $3,000–$4,000 for straight lifts and less than $10,000 for curved lifts) before installation. We also included brands with financing and different purchase options to lower upfront costs.
Safety
Stair lifts are designed as mobility aids, but they need safety features to keep you secure. We ensure all our picks offer features to keep you in place during your ride, like user-friendly seat belts and swivel seats. We also look for features that keep other people safe around the lift, like obstruction sensors or fold-away systems, to prevent tripping or running into children or pets.
Easy-to-use features
When we’re evaluating features, we look to see if they’re easy for all people to use (or if there are other options to accommodate people with different needs). For example, we noted how the Stannah Siena seatbelt can be buckled and unbuckled using one hand. We also test how easy it is to lift the armrests and footrests and operate manual controls.
Chair options
When creating our review, we wanted to include a range of brands with different chair options to meet mobility needs or design preferences. We noted if brands offered wider or taller seats, design choices, higher weight limits, or perched designs. Chair options are important because you should feel comfortable using your stair lift in your home.
What are stair lifts?
A stair lift is a home accessibility product that allows you to move up and down stairs without walking. Instead, you sit in an electric-powered seat and use controls to ride up or down the stairs safely.
Stair lifts help the person using them, as well as family, caregivers, and nurses who provide assistance. Caregivers caring for adults with high mobility needs can transport or supervise the person up or down the stairs with less physical effort and safety risk. For those recovering from a major event, like surgery or trauma, a temporary stair lift allows you to access the second floor during recovery.
“Skilled nursing facilities have become more selective in accepting patients due to staffing shortages, bed availability, and insurance challenges. Instead, patients are going home from the hospital with higher assistance needs. Home modifications could help increase their safety and independence, and now, we often recommend 24/7 able-bodied assistance to ensure patient safety in their home environment,” said Brittany Battle Morton, DPT, a doctor of physical therapy at Duke University Hospital, who is heavily involved in discharge planning.
If you’re concerned about limited mobility or falls risk, Battle Morton advised: “Contact a physical therapist for an evaluation first, because there may be simple things that we can address before making a modification to your home that you may not need. As always, consult with your health care provider.”
During an assessment, a medical professional can pinpoint your falls risk, including medication interactions, lower body weakness, or poor balance. They can also develop a plan to help you feel more confident in your mobility, which may be prescribed exercises or adjusting your medications—so you can work to prevent falls.
Types of stair lifts
- Straight stair lifts: Straight lifts are installed on staircases without any turns.
- Curved stair lifts: Curved lifts are installed on any staircase with at least one turn. Some lifts are designed to fit tight curves, like spiral staircases.
- Indoor stair lifts: Indoor lifts typically have comfortable designs with upholstery or padding. Most people who buy stair lifts place them indoors to navigate between floors and provide access to a second-story bedroom and bathroom.
- Outdoor stair lifts: Outdoor lifts have waterproof designs to withstand rain and mild climates. They often come with covers that protect the lift when not in use.
Stair lift features
Almost all modern stair lift models have the same basic construction:
- Seats, armrests, and footrests: These parts can be folded away when not in use. Most seat units can swivel 45–90 degrees so you can safely enter or exit the stair lift. Most, but not all, seats are adjustable to accommodate multiple users in the same household.
- Tracks: The stair lift seat rides on the tracks as it goes up and down the stairs. They can have one or two rails depending on the brand or model. Some tracks are wider than others, which can be a major consideration if you have a narrow staircase. A hinging track is a good option for those with doorways blocking the bottom landing. This allows you to fold the track away when not in use. But hinged tracks lower weight capacity by about 50 pounds, because a hinge is a pivot point that creates a weak spot on the track.
Most stair lifts also come with a few basic features:
- Seat belts: Seat belts keep you secure in your seat during your ride. Some are retractable, so the belt hides in the seat when not in use.
- Controls: Most controls are found on the armrest, so you control your travel direction. The style of controls (joystick, button) depend on the brand and model. It’s more common to find separate controls as well, either mounted on the wall or as a remote control, to call the stair lift to you when it’s on the opposite landing.
- Rechargeable batteries: These ensure the stair lift is operational during a power outage. Power stations are installed at the top and bottom of the staircase, so the chair is always charging when at rest.
Most modern stair lifts include added safety features for your safety:
- Electronic sensors: Also known as obstruction sensors, these can detect obstacles on the staircase, sending the chair back to start position until the obstacle can be removed for safety.
- Hinged tracks: Extended tracks are on a hinge and can fold away when not in use to reduce tripping hazards.
- Stair lift apps: Some brands (like Acorn) offer companion apps with your stair lift. They’re unique to the brand, but some allow you to see stair lift activity and store information (like your installation date) that may come in handy for maintenance.
Pros and cons of stair chair lifts
Pros
- Offer a safe solution for stair mobility in the home
- Fit almost any staircase, both indoor and outdoor, without damaging the walls
- Financing options available from most manufacturers or dealers
- Pre-owned or rental stair lifts available as a more affordable option
- Safe and reliable on any staircase shape (when professionally installed)
- Many operate on battery power even during power outages
- Many brands offer customizations to improve function or add style
Cons
- Cost several thousands of dollars or more
- Little to no insurance coverage or public programs to help offset the cost
- Turnaround time from purchase to installation can take weeks, particularly on custom-made curved lifts
- Take up a lot of space on the staircase
- Not always pleasing to the eye
How much do stair lifts cost?
The cost of a stair lift depends mainly on the shape of the track (straight or curved), which greatly influences the manufacturing and installation.
Because the tracks are easy to make and install, straight stair lifts are the most affordable option and often start around $3,500 for product and installation. Some manufacturers, like AmeriGlide, offer lower priced stair lift options, with starting costs at $2,095, although consumers rarely pay less than $3,000 with added customization and installation fees. Track length is the only major variable, so straight tracks can be stocked in advance and cut to size for nearly any straight staircase. Some stair lift companies can measure and install a straight stair lift within a few days.
Curved stair lifts are expensive, often costing around $10,000 for the product and installation. These tracks are more expensive because they need to be custom-made. In most cases, a professional needs to visit the home to take detailed measurements for track manufacturing and proper fitting.
Every bend in the track adds to the manufacturing and installation cost, so the end cost could be up to $25,000 for multiple landings or spiral staircases. From order to purchase, you’ll be waiting a few weeks before your stair lifts can be installed, but the actual installation can often be completed in a day.
If your stairs are outdoors, there are chair lift options that can weather the elements. Outdoor stair lifts typically start around $5,000–$7,000 with installation.
How much do wheelchair lifts cost?
Wheelchair lifts, or incline platform lifts, are not as common in the home. But they are sold by some trusted stair lift dealers, like Lifeway Mobility, starting at around $12,000 with installation, depending on the type of lift. Although wheelchair lifts are more expensive, they may be worth the investment, especially for caregivers who would otherwise need to transfer the person to and from a seated stair lift.
Incline wheelchair lifts in the home can support at least 550 pounds and have built-in safety features like handles and platform boundaries to keep the person and wheelchair in place. If you have a power wheelchair that pushes you over the weight limit, a vertical platform lift is another option. These are like home elevators and can hold up to 800 pounds. They may require a partial renovation, but the product itself can be less costly than a wheelchair lift. For example, residential platform lifts from AmeriGlide start around $3,500–$8,499, not including installation. All vertical lifts should be installed by a state-permitted professional, so installation fees vary between states.
Stair lift warranties and maintenance
You should hire a professional to service and safety check your stair lift annually. The manufacturer or dealer who sold you the lift often provides this service. Depending on your warranty agreement, this service may be covered once or twice a year.
Note: Most companies will void your warranty if you self-installed your stair lift.
Warranties
Stair lifts come with varying warranty lengths, depending on the seller. For example, the manufacturer warranty from Stannah only covers stair lifts bought directly from the company. The company might offer a different warranty agreement if you bought from a dealer.
Warranties also vary based on the type of stair lift and parts. Ask your dealer or look online to get a full picture of the warranty, including warranty coverage and a timeline for the following variables:
- Track shape (straight or curved)
- Track location (indoor or outdoor)
- Specific parts (gearbox, circuitry, motor, batteries, rail, seat)
- Replacement parts
- Professional servicing
All warranties only cover manufacturing and installation defects on parts. They will not cover damage by the user, like using harsh cleaning products on electrical components, so read your manual on how to properly care for your product.
Maintenance
Most stair lifts are expected to last about 10 years, but most manufacturers claim longer product lifetimes with proper care and maintenance.
Day-to-day maintenance is simple. Most lifts only require a quick dusting of the track and stair lift chair using a dry cloth. Do not use damp or abrasive cleaning equipment, as this can damage the lift.
A yearly scheduled servicing appointment will take a few hours at most, with the service team thoroughly checking that each part is fully operational. This includes the gearbox, battery, and circuitry. Some gears need yearly lubrication, while others (like Harmar) have nylon polymer gear racks that don’t require lubrication at all. Further maintenance requirements largely depend on the brand, so check your stair lift manual, or ask a professional for further information.
Compare the cost of stair lift types, as of 2024
| Type of stair lift | Average starting cost* (including installation) |
|---|---|
| Straight | $3,039 |
| Curved | $8,299 |
| Outdoor | $3,479 |
How to save money on stair lifts
Stair lifts are expensive but can mean the difference between aging safely at home and moving out. Below, we discuss ways to save money on a stair lift.
Using insurance for a stair lift
Insurance doesn’t cover stair lifts, but it’s worth asking for help. Private and government policies, including Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) and Medicare Part B, require a doctor’s prescription and documentation that proves medical necessity to provide help. Long-term care insurance may also cover a portion of the costs of a stair lift. Speak to your insurance provider for more information.
“Insurance does not cover stair lifts. The only thing that helps is a prescription from your doctor, this can waive the sales tax. This can be about $300 on a straight stair lift or $800–$1,000 on a curved stair lift.”
— Brittany Quinn, sales manager at SafeHome Pro
Medicaid offers a Home and Community Based Services program, which could provide at least partial coverage. Medicaid programs are state-dependent, so you need to call your local office to see what programs are available to you.
You can also use NCOA’s BenefitsCheckUp tool to see if there are programs available in your community. You just have to provide your ZIP code and select the help you’re looking for.
Tax deductions on stair lifts
Stair lifts and maintenance costs can be tax deductible, but you need to prove it was a medically necessary purchase by keeping your doctor’s prescription for the lift on hand. Keep the receipt for tax season, and list your expense as an “itemized deduction” for medical purposes. You can find more information on the IRS website.
Some states also offer various tax credits for home modifications that help older adults age in place, such as Virginia’s Liveable Home Tax Credit or Maryland’s Independent Living Tax Credit. Check with your state’s tax authority for state-specific tax credits.
New vs. used stair lifts
Many manufacturers and dealers have pre-owned stair lifts in stock at their warehouses. We called 101 Mobility, a dealer with locations across the United States, about its pre-owned stair lift inventory. Our Reviews Team was told that the dealer has a long waiting list, but used stair lifts can work just as well as a new lift for a fraction of the cost—sometimes as low as $2,600 including installation for a straight lift. Curved lifts can be purchased used, but they’re more difficult to fit due to the customized nature of the product. Keep in mind that warranties are different for pre-owned lifts than new ones, so ask a professional for those details.
Quinn offered another perspective regarding refurbished units. “The downside is that you don’t always know what you’re getting, and dealers can’t guarantee anything about the unit. Many companies won’t even touch them, including us. We will not install any used equipment in someone’s home. Once it’s installed, we can’t guarantee that it will work,” she said. “A lot of times when people uninstall them themselves, they either blow a fuse or kill the batteries. So I would always assume you’re going to need additional parts and labor when buying a refurbished unit. Sometimes the costs don’t outweigh the amount of just buying a new one by the time it’s all said and done.”
You can also check out Amazon or Ebay for used stair lifts, where there are options for as low as $650, but you need to be sure they’re in working condition. To be extra safe, make sure you hire a professional to install it. Your secondhand lift won’t be covered by any warranty.
Renting vs. buying stair lifts
Rental lifts are available for temporary use and can also be found with some manufacturers and dealers. 101 Mobility told our Reviews Team that rental pricing for lifts ranges between $145–$500 per month, with a $500 installation fee, but the exact price depends on the dealer’s location and type of lift. The dealer also told us rentals are a great option for those who aren’t sure if a stair lift is right for them, because you can try it out for a few months before purchasing. Depending on the retailer, the initial rental agreement will last about six months before you have the choice to continue renting month-to-month or purchase the lift at a used price.
Financing
Although this may not save you money in the long run, some manufacturers or dealers offer financing options to lower the initial cost barrier. You can check with the stair lift’s retailer to see how you can apply. If you do qualify, you’ll pay an upfront fee followed by monthly payments until the stair lift is fully paid off.
Charitable programs
Nationwide programs like Habitat for Humanity and Rebuilding Together can help find low-cost or used stair lifts for those in need. These organizations also rely on volunteers who can install the stair lifts at little or no cost.
How to buy a stair lift
When buying a stair lift, you can start by contacting a stair lift company or visiting a nearby stair lift dealer. If you purchase directly from a stair lift company, you’ll deal directly with the company for installation, repairs, and maintenance. If you purchase from a stair lift dealer, you’ll likely work directly with the dealer for installation, repairs, and maintenance, but it varies by dealership.
Once you’ve decided on a supplier, buying a stair lift requires two main steps:
- Measuring for a stair lift: This typically requires a professional from the manufacturer or dealer to survey your staircase, discuss your options, and give you an accurate price.
- Manufacturing and installing the stair lift: This occurs a few weeks (or days, in some cases) after purchasing your lift from the manufacturer or dealer.
Step one: measuring for a stair lift
Buying a stair lift starts at staircase measurements. Both straight and curved stair lifts require exact measurements for a perfect fit.
Online stores like AmeriGlide give you the option of measuring your staircase yourself before purchase, although this can be difficult and leaves room for error. When our Reviews Team reached out to customer service for guidance, they provided us with a pamphlet to measure straight stair lifts. They also referenced their online guide for measuring curved stair lifts, which is trickier because it accounts for turning space. The benefit to the AmeriGlide buying process is you can buy your stair lift and specify customizations as soon as you have your measurements using the brand’s online checkout. But you may be left wondering if your measurements were accurate.
Accurate measurements are critical to the fit and function of your stair lift, so it’s best to leave it to the pros. Most manufacturers sell their products through local dealers who will measure and install your lift for you. Many dealers send a professional to your home to perform a complimentary survey of your staircase. They’ll gather the information necessary to give you a price quote, including the following:
- Staircase measurements
- Environmental considerations, like terrain if the stair lift will be placed outdoors
- Staircase placement, specified to fit along either side of the staircase
- Personal preferences, like upholstery color or seat style
- Other available features, like a remote control calling system or armrest control placement
Once you agree on the model, customizations, and price, you can purchase the lift right there with the professional. Then, you’ll move forward to the manufacturing and installation process.
Note: Charging stations need to connect to an outlet at the top and bottom of the stairs. If no outlets are available, you will need to hire an electrician to install them before the chair lift is installed.
Step two: manufacturing and installing the stair lift
If your staircase is straight, the manufacturing time is quick because straight tracks can be made in advance and cut to size. Some manufacturers or dealers can have them ready for next-day installation. If you have a curved staircase, you may be waiting a few weeks until they can manufacture and ship the track because it is custom-made to fit your unique staircase.
Manufacturers like AmeriGlide let you install your stair lifts yourself unless you pay for professional installation, which can add between $599–$749 at checkout. Most dealers we’ve spoken to advise against self-installation due to safety concerns. Many states (Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Washington, D.C., Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin) require you to have a permit to install any type of lift. Noncompliance can result in hefty fines, like Nevada’s $5,000 penalty.
Professional installation is the safest option for your home and your wallet. Most manufacturers and dealers roll the installation price into their initial quote, so you don’t have to worry about additional fees. Installation takes less than a day, sometimes as little as four hours. The track is placed first and attached securely to your stairs. Then, the charging stations are installed at the top and bottom of the staircase so the stair lift can charge while not in use in either position. Finally, the seat is installed and ready for a test run.
How we chose the best stair lifts
Based on our expert consultations and research, we determined the following factors to be important for our readers when shopping for a stair lift:
- Price: We considered the price range of each straight and curved stair lift from both manufacturers and dealers.
- Financing options: We searched each brand to see who offers financing options to improve affordability.
- Warranty: We looked into each brand’s warranty length and terms for your consideration before you buy.
- Adaptability to the home and user: We examined each brand and model for a variety of functional features that would meet your unique needs.
- Customer satisfaction: We studied customer reviews on the brands’ websites to see what customers like and dislike about each brand.
- Customer service, including installation: We experienced customer service ourselves by calling each brand and asking questions about pricing, purchase and installation processes, and lift specifications.
- Customization: We considered features like upholstery options, so you can choose a lift that meets your “wants” list.
- Safety features: We compared safety features in each lift, so you can find the safest option for you.
- Product reliability: We evaluated how dependable each lift will be by assessing factors like battery life so you can choose a lift that won’t leave you stranded.
We had an expert in the field medically review our best chair lift selections to ensure that each brand and model is appropriate for our readers’ needs.
Table 1, The best stair lifts of 2024
| Starting price (straight) | $3,000 (without installation) | $3,000 (without installation) | $3,700.00 | $3,400.00 | $2,095 (without installation) |
| Starting price (curved) | $9,500.00 | $9,000.00 | $7,000.00 | $8,800.00 | $7,199.00 |
| Environment | Indoor or outdoor | Indoor or outdoor | Indoor or outdoor | Indoor or outdoor | Indoor or outdoor |
| Financing | Available via dealer | Available | Available via dealer | Available | Available |
| Maximum weight capacity (lbs) | 300–400 | 300–600 | 350–600 | 300–350 | 264–600 |
Bottom line
Stair lifts aid in mobility from one floor to the next and serve as a tool to prevent falls in the home. Although they’re expensive, there are options like buying used, renting, or financing your lift. In many cases, stair lifts are permanent solutions for older adults with significant mobility problems and an increased risk of falls. In other cases, they’re a temporary measure during a rehabilitation process. Caregivers also benefit from stair lifts to help reduce the need for assistance and create a safer alternative to stair navigation. No matter the use, a stair lift can drastically improve your quality of life.
The market is full of many reputable stair lift brands, but these picks have cleared our reviews process as the best and safest quality. Be sure to consider each one, as they all have unique nuances. A stair lift that fits one person doesn’t fit everyone, so make sure you pick the one that’s right for you and your mobility needs.
If you’re concerned about your falls risk, Battle advised: “Contact a physical therapist for an evaluation first, because there may be simple things that we can address before making a modification to your home that you may not need. As always, consult with your doctor.”
During an assessment, a medical professional can pinpoint your falls risk, including medication interactions, lower body weakness, or poor balance. They can also develop a plan to help you feel more confident in your mobility, which can involve engaging in prescribed exercises, finding one of the best medical alert systems with fall detection, or adjusting your medications—so you can proactively work to prevent falls.
Frequently asked questions
Usually, no. Medicare, particularly Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part B, may consider coverage if it’s been deemed medically necessary by a doctor with a prescription.
Straight stair lifts start at $3,500 with installation. Curved stair lifts start at $10,000 with installation. Outdoor stair lifts start between $7,500–$15,000 including installation, depending on the track shape.
Insurance does not typically cover stair lifts, but it depends on your insurance plan. It never hurts to ask your insurance company because they may cover a portion if the lift is deemed medically necessary by a doctor with a prescription. If you have long-term care insurance, check with your insurance provider about coverage for stair lifts.
AARP’s Medicare Advantage plans do not usually cover stair lifts, but they may consider coverage if deemed necessary by a medical professional with a prescription.
Curved stair lifts can start at $10,000 and can be as much as $25,000 depending on the number of curves and location of your staircase in the house. Because they are custom made, they require careful measurement, manufacturing, and installation efforts that hike up the price.
A stair lift is a home modification that helps people navigate staircases with less risk of falls.
A stair lift is designed with a seat so you can sit down as you’re moved up the stairs. Chair lifts for stairs, also called vertical lifts, are platforms that help people who use wheelchairs move up to the next floor while still seated in their chair.
The maximum weight capacity for a stair lift typically ranges between 264 and 400 pounds. However, some brands, like Harmar and AmeriGlide, can support up to 600 pounds. It’s important to choose a stair lift that comfortably supports the weight of the user while also considering the specifications of the staircase where it will be installed.
Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Trends in Nonfatal Falls and Fall-Related Injuries Among Adults Aged ≥65 Years — United States, 2012–2018. Found on the internet at: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6927a5
- Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS). Addressing Falls Prevention Among Older Adults, Part I. Found on the internet at https://www.hss.edu/conditions_addressing-falls-prevention-older-adults-understanding.asp
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Facts about falls. Found on the internet at https://www.cdc.gov/falls/about/index.html