Answer 5 quick questions for a personalised recommendation, then compare the two side by side on cost, space, access and more.
Stairlift vs home lift at a glance
| Feature | Stairlift | Home lift |
|---|---|---|
| Typical cost (installed, 2026) | £2,000 to £8,000 | £12,000 to £40,000 |
| Carries a wheelchair | No (seated passenger) | Yes (wheelchair cabins available) |
| Needs a staircase | Yes, runs on the stairs | No, fits almost anywhere |
| Keeps stairs usable for others | Folds away when not in use | Yes, stairs stay free |
| Typical install time | A few hours to a day | One to five days |
| Floors served | Usually one flight | Two or more floors |
| Adds property value | Limited | Often yes |
| Reversible / removable | Easily removed | More involved to remove |
| 0% VAT for disabled users | Usually yes | Usually yes |
| Grant funding (DFG) | Possible | Possible |
This tool gives general guidance only, based on your answers. The right choice depends on a proper assessment of the person’s needs and the property. Costs are indicative 2026 UK ranges. © UK Home Lifts. Free, independent home lift advice.
Stairlift vs home lift: how to choose
Both a stairlift and a home lift solve the same problem, moving safely between floors, but they suit very different situations. A stairlift is the most affordable option and is quick to fit, carrying a seated passenger up and down an existing staircase. A home lift costs more but carries you (and a wheelchair, if needed) in an enclosed cabin, keeps the stairs clear, and adds a lasting feature to your home. The tool above weighs up your answers and points you towards the better fit.
How much do they cost in 2026?
A stairlift typically costs £2,000 to £8,000 installed: around £2,000 to £4,500 for a straight stairlift and £4,500 to £8,000 or more for a curved rail. A home lift typically costs £12,000 to £40,000 installed depending on the type and finish. Get a tailored figure with our home lift cost calculator, see full pricing in our home lift price guide, or compare stairlift prices at Stairlift Costs.
When is a home lift the better choice?
- The user needs to travel between floors in a wheelchair
- There is no suitable staircase, or the stairs need to stay clear for others
- You want to connect more than two floors or future-proof the home
- Comfort, discreet design and added property value matter to you
Explore the types of home lift to see which would suit your home.
When is a stairlift the better choice?
- The person can transfer onto a seat and ride safely
- You have a suitable straight or curved staircase
- Lowest upfront cost and the fastest installation are the priority
- You only need to cover a single flight of stairs
Can you get funding for either?
Yes. Both stairlifts and home lifts can be funded through a Disabled Facilities Grant when they are assessed as necessary, and both are usually zero-rated for VAT when supplied for a disabled person. Use our grants eligibility checker to see what help you could claim.
Frequently asked questions
Is a home lift better than a stairlift?
Neither is universally better. A home lift is better for wheelchair users, multiple floors and long-term value, while a stairlift is better for a lower budget, a single staircase and a quick installation.
Is a stairlift cheaper than a home lift?
Yes, considerably. A stairlift usually costs £2,000 to £8,000 installed, whereas a home lift typically costs £12,000 to £40,000.
Can a stairlift carry a wheelchair?
A standard stairlift carries a seated passenger, not a wheelchair, so the user must be able to transfer. If staying in a wheelchair is essential, a home lift or wheelchair platform lift is the right choice.
Which adds more value to a home?
A home lift is more likely to add property value as a permanent, discreet feature, while a stairlift is easily removed and adds little to resale value.
Leaning towards a home lift? Estimate your cost, check grants, or request free quotes.