Curved Stairlift Cost (U.S.) — 2026
Curved stairlifts are built for staircases with turns, landings, or multiple flights. The big difference vs. a straight stairlift is the rail: curved rails are typically custom tracks, and that’s what drives most of the added cost. NCOA notes that staircases with landings and turns require custom tracks and extra labor, and can cost significantly more. [1]
Quick answer: typical installed cost (curved)
Curved stairlift (installed): $8,000–$12,000
This is a planning range from a consumer guide—not a quote. [1]
Last reviewed: January 2026
Why curved stairlifts cost more
Curved stairlifts usually cost more because:
- The rail is measured and fabricated to match your staircase’s geometry (turns + landings). [1]
- Installation may be more complex (layout constraints, additional supports, electrical work). [1]
Cost breakdown (equipment vs installation)
NCOA’s planning breakdown for curved stairlifts:
| Category | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Equipment | $7,000–$10,000 |
| Installation | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Total estimate (installed) | $8,000–$12,000 |
These ranges are meant for budgeting; quotes vary based on measurements and options. [1]
Why some quotes run higher than the “typical” range
Real-world projects can exceed the typical ranges, especially with complex landings/turns or high-end options. HomeAdvisor’s survey-based cost data (a consumer cost aggregator) reports curved stair lift projects can range roughly $10,350–$25,000. [2]
Important
Use wide ranges like this to set expectations—not to replace quotes. For curved rails, installers generally need a measurement/assessment to price accurately.
The biggest cost drivers for curved stairlifts
1) Turns, landings, and multiple flights
More turns and more landings typically mean a more complex rail and install. NCOA explicitly notes that landings/turns require custom tracks and extra labor. [1]
2) Rail length and “run”
Even with the same number of turns, a longer overall run usually means more material and more installation time. [1]
3) Installation conditions (structural + electrical)
NCOA highlights installation factors such as structural needs and electrical work—if additional bracing or outlets are needed, costs can rise. [1]
4) Options that affect transfers and safety
Common add-ons include:
- Power swivel seat (often helpful for safer transfers at the top landing) [3]
- Folding rails/footrests (space constraints)
- Higher weight capacity models [1]
Multi-landing staircases (2+ flights)
If your home has two flights with a landing between them, you typically have two approaches:
- One curved stairlift that travels through the landing (usually seamless, but higher cost due to rail complexity). [1]
- Two straight stairlifts (one for each flight), which may cost less but requires transferring at the landing. HomeAdvisor notes this can sometimes save thousands vs one curved unit (depending on layout and user needs). [2]
Choose based on the user’s transfer ability
If the primary user has difficulty standing and pivoting safely, a single continuous lift may be safer even if it costs more. If transfers are safe and the landing is roomy, two straight lifts can sometimes be a pragmatic option.
Spiral staircases (compact/tight turns)
Spiral stairs can be challenging because of tight geometry and limited landing space. In many cases, feasibility depends on width, headroom, and turning radius—so you should expect higher variability in quotes and a need for an on-site assessment. [1][2]
Does Medicare cover curved stairlifts?
NCOA notes that Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover stair lifts, though other plans may offer benefits depending on the details. Medicare also explains how durable medical equipment (DME) coverage works under Part B. [1][4]
Important
Coverage varies by plan and situation. If coverage affects your decision, confirm directly with your plan and clinician.
Other ways people help pay (U.S.)
VA housing adaptation programs
VA disability housing grants may help eligible Veterans and service members change a home to meet mobility needs. [5]
Tax rules (medical expense guidance)
IRS Publication 502 discusses medical expenses and includes examples of capital expenses related to accessibility, including “porch lifts and other forms of lifts.” [6]
FAQ
Can I buy a used curved stairlift?
It’s difficult because the rail is typically custom to the staircase. The chair might be reusable, but the rail usually won’t fit a different home. [1]
How long does installation take?
Timeline depends on measurement, manufacturing lead time, and scheduling. Curved rails may require additional time compared with straight systems due to customization. [1]
What’s the cheapest alternative to a curved stairlift?
If your staircase has a landing, two straight stairlifts can sometimes be cheaper than one curved lift—but only if transfers at the landing are safe for the user. [2]
Want to compare straight vs curved ranges quickly? Try the free stairlift cost calculator.
Sources
- NCOA — “Stair Lift Costs: A Complete Guide” (curved cost breakdown; landings/turns require custom tracks; install factors):
https://www.ncoa.org/article/stair-lift-costs-a-complete-guide/ - HomeAdvisor — “How Much Do Stair Lifts Cost in 2025?” (survey-based ranges; curved range context):
https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/disability-accommodation/install-stair-lift/ - NCOA — “Compare the Best Stair Lift Brands of 2026” (feature notes like power swivel):
https://www.ncoa.org/product-resources/mobility/best-stair-lifts/ - Medicare.gov — Durable medical equipment (DME) coverage:
https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/durable-medical-equipment-dme-coverage - VA.gov — Disability housing grants for Veterans:
https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/ - IRS — Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses:
https://www.irs.gov/publications/p502