How Much Does a Wheelchair Platform Lift Cost in 2024?
A common question we receive from those interested in a platform lift is, “how much does a wheelchair platform lift cost?”. Like many other accessibility solutions, the cost can vary significantly based on several different factors, such as the type of platform lift, application, travel distance, upgrade options, and construction.
Wheelchair platform lifts provide a safe and convenient way for wheelchair and powerchair users to access homes, businesses, churches, and other buildings. They're a space saving alternative to wheelchair ramps and are suitable for indoor and outdoor applications.
In this guide, we will provide a breakdown the key factors that influence platform lift pricing and outline affordable options for those on a tight budget.
Average Price of a Wheelchair Lift
On average, the price of a wheelchair platform lift professionally installed typically ranges between $12,000-$35,000, or more for unique applications. It is such a wide range because of the variety of factors that influence pricing.
Lifeway Mobility's wheelchair lift pricing always include:
- Professional installation by our trained & certified technicians
- Modifications, permits, and other costs
- Thorough demo of the lift before our technicians leave your home or building
- Best warranty in the industry on product & labor
Estimating the Price of a Platform Lift - Site Evaluation
To receive an accurate price of a professionally installed platform lift, a full evaluation is required by an accessibility specialist. At Lifeway Mobility, we will first take the time to understand the needs of the user so that we can determine the best solution to meet those needs and also fit the space available at the house or building, such as schools, churches, or restaurants.
Measurements will be taken to identify the rise/travel height and the surrounding area will also be reviewed to ensure there is adequate access available for others via stairs. This thorough evaluation allows an accessibility expert to estimate how much site prep may be required, and if there needs to be any modifications to allow for the platform lift to be installed and safe to use.
Location & Application
Both the location of installation and application/setting can greatly influence the cost of a wheelchair platform lift.
Location - Outdoor vs. Indoor
A wheelchair lift is more commonly installed outdoors and also typically less expensive than an indoor platform lift installation on average.
Indoor installations can often require construction or structure modifications, such as a building hoistway, which will require a general contractor and construction. These costs can add up quickly and are the main reasons why an indoor platform lift installation is more expensive than an outdoor one.
Outdoor installations may require a concrete pad to be installed, as well as a new staircase, but these are less costly items when compared to building a hoistway.
Application - Residential vs. Commercial
Like most accessibility solutions, a residential platform lift is going to be less costly than a commercial platform lift for several reasons. Commercial platform lifts are built for more frequent usage, and typically have a higher weight capacity. More frequent use, also means more maintenance to ensure smoother and optimal operation. In commercial applications, there are also stricter safety compliance rules and regulations, and sometimes more complex layouts like the one pictured below.
Travel Distance
For many manufacturers, the travel height of a platform lift is the main factor for differentiating one lift model to another. On average, the travel height of the most basic platform lift starts around 4', while some models can travel up to 14' for commercial applications.
As you might expect, the greater the travel distance of a platform lift, the higher the cost. Although, in some cases, the most expensive platform lift may still be a more affordable solution than an elevator in commercial settings.
Type of Platform Lift
There are two types of platform lifts that can provide safe access:
- vertical platform lifts (most common)
- inclined platform lifts
In this guide, all of the information provided is related to vertical platform lifts. However, like the general price range, many of the factors that influence the price of a vertical platform lift, also influence the price of an inclined platform lift.
Incline platform lifts do not typically require construction, modifications, or a concrete pad though, as they glide over an existing staircase.
Resource: Compare vertical platform lifts vs. inclined platform lifts
Construction & Modifications
The amount of construction and modifications required significantly impacts the cost of a platform lift. There needs to be enough room for a platform lift to travel vertically and for the user to safely enter/exit the lift at the top and bottom landing. In addition, there needs to be access via a staircase for others.
In some cases, the current space/location of where the lift will be installed may not require modifications, but in most cases, at least some site prep is required for installation:
- Concrete pad for the lift
- Removal and replacement of a deck, porch and/or stairway
- Add outlets/electrical work
- New exterior door and/or structure modifications to widen or create a doorway
- Construction & GC to build a hoistway (for indoor installations)
Platform Lift Upgrade Options
Depending on the needs of the user or location/application of the platform lift, one more of the following options may need to be added to ensure safety and optimal use, which will add to the cost of a platform lift:
- DC Battery-powered unit (standard is typically AC power)
- Landing or platform gates
- Larger platform sizes
- Cold-weather package
- Call/send stations, keylock
- Door upgrades
Maintenance Costs
There are simple ways that a platform lift can be maintained, such as cleaning any debris from the platform, or removing snow and ice from it during colder months. However, it's also possible that your lift may need to be serviced from time to time if it breaks down.
While it's not required, a yearly planned maintenance can add an annual fee, but also help minimize service visit and keep your lift in top shape.
It's also important to note that a lift with a better warranty (longer warranty period) may come at a higher initial cost, but can save money on future repair costs in the long haul.
Lifeway Mobility provides service after installation on platform lifts, ensuring peace of mind for customers and their families.
Permits/Inspections
Depending on the location of installation (varies by state and city) and the application (residential vs. commercial), a platform lift may require permits and inspections, which are typically several hundred dollars. These costs are always included in the price of a platform lift from Lifeway Mobility, but this may not be included from purchasing a lift online or from other providers.
Affordable Payment Options for Platform Lifts
If a platform lift is the best solution for your mobility needs, but budget is a concern, there are some affordable options and funding sources to consider that can help cover the cost.
- Financing -- Lifeway Mobility offers financing for platform lifts and other accessibility solutions, such as stair lifts or ramps, for those that are eligible.
- Funding Sources - There are a variety of funding sources that can help you pay for a platform lift. Visit our funding sources page for more information.
- Used Lifts - In some locations, there may be used lifts available that can reduce the price of a platform lift.
If you have any questions on financing or funding sources, don't hesitate to contact us. We're happy to help!
Purchasing a Platform Lift Through a Dealer vs. Online
With a simple search on Google, you're likely to find several e-commerce sites that sell platform lifts. At first, the price is likely less than the quote you would receive from a professional dealer. However, the prices you see on those e-commerce sites likely do not include the cost of delivery, installation, permits, inspections, site prep (construction or modifications) or warranty coverage, all of which are included in most cases when sold by reputable dealers. Online prices may also include hidden fees, plus no warranty on labor or available service should your lift break down.
While it can be a cost-saving measure, DIY self-installation can put you, your family, or your home in harm’s way. Your safety could be at risk!
The Accessibility Equipment Manufacturers Association (AEMA) provides the most knowledgeable information on vertical platform lifts and inclined platform lifts. Plus, most of the top manufacturers of platform lifts, such as Bruno, require professional installation from a trusted and certified dealer to ensure safe use.
Lifeway Mobility's technicians are professionally trained & certified to safely install platform lifts at the highest quality Additionally, Lifeway is both a licensed and insured company – something that most internet sellers can’t say.
Cost of a Platform Lift vs. Alternative Options
There are other accessibility solutions that offer an alternative option to a platform lift, such as a wheelchair ramp, stairlift, or home elevator. While some of these alternatives may be less expensive, it's important to also consider the safest and most ideal solution, based on the user's specific mobility needs.
- Wheelchair Ramp - Ramps are generally a more affordable option than a platform lift, but they also require much more space. Depending on the "rise" that needs to be covered, there are some situations where a platform lift is the only solution and potentially a less costly one than a wheelchair ramp.
- Stair Lift - Like ramps, stairlifts offer a more affordable solution for navigating an entry barrier for people with limited mobility when compared to a platform lift. However, those that are unable to independently transfer from a wheelchair, scooter or power chair, may not be able to use a stair lift safely.
- Home Elevator - Elevators are often the most expensive solution of the bunch, ranging between $35,000-$100,000, but also the most convenient, especially for overcoming various heights and/or multiple floors.
Contact us to set-up your FREE in-home evaluation to receive a free quote and better determine if a wheelchair platform lift is the best solutions for your mobility needs and space.
Additional Wheelchair Lift & Related Resources:
- Wheelchair Platform Lift Installation
- Wheelchair Ramps vs Wheelchair Lifts
- Wheelchair Ramp Cost
- Stair Lift Cost
- Home Elevator Cost