Stairlifts vs. Moving to a One-Story Home: Costs and Considerations for Aging in Place

February 13 2025, by Richard Spafford, 5 min reading time

Introduction

Many older adults face the decision of staying in their multi-level home or moving to a single-story residence when mobility becomes a concern. While moving may seem like a logical choice, it involves significant costs, disruptions, and emotional tolls. Installing a stairlift is a practical and affordable alternative that allows you to remain in the home you’ve loved for decades. In this guide, we’ll compare the costs, convenience, and long-term benefits of stairlifts versus relocating to a one-story home.

1. Cost Comparison: Stairlift Installation vs. Moving

Stairlift Installation: Affordable and Immediate Solution

Cost Range: At USA Medical Supply, a professionally installed stairlift typically costs between $3,000 and $4,000. This includes the stairlift itself and expert installation.
Free Assessments: We provide personalized evaluations to recommend the best stairlift for your home at no cost.
Buyback Program: If your circumstances change, we offer a buyback program for your stairlift, adding more value to your investment.
Lifetime Service Guarantee: Our stairlifts come with lifetime parts and service, giving you peace of mind for years to come.

Relocating to a Single-Story Home: High Upfront Costs

Real Estate Fees: Between 5% and 6% of your home’s sale price for agent commissions. On a $300,000 home, that’s $15,000–$18,000.
Moving Costs: Packing, transportation, and setup can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the distance and size of your move.
Home Renovations: You may still need to renovate the new home to make it truly accessible.
Emotional Costs: Leaving a home filled with decades of memories can be emotionally difficult for many.

2. Convenience and Disruption

Stairlift Installation: Minimal Disruption

Installation takes just a few hours with no major renovations required.
No need to pack, move, or deal with the stress of finding a new home.
Custom options ensure a perfect fit for straight or curved staircases, with features such as swivel seats and safety belts for maximum comfort.

Moving to a New Home: A Major Undertaking

Finding a suitable one-story home can take months or even years in some markets.
Downsizing often requires selling or parting with furniture and other belongings.
Moving is physically and emotionally draining, especially for older adults.

3. Maintaining Independence and Aging in Place

Stairlifts: Aging in Place with Confidence

A stairlift provides a safe and reliable way to access all levels of your home, reducing the risk of falls.
It allows you to maintain your independence without relying on others for assistance.
With lifetime service and support from USA Medical Supply, you can trust that your stairlift will remain in top condition.

Moving: A Loss of Familiarity

Adapting to a new neighborhood can be challenging.
Leaving a familiar home may increase feelings of isolation and anxiety.
Some older adults struggle to adjust to a new living environment, impacting their overall well-being.

4. Resale Value and Buyback Program

Stairlifts: High Return on Investment

A stairlift can increase the accessibility and appeal of your home to future buyers.
USA Medical Supply’s buyback program ensures you get value back when the stairlift is no longer needed.
With regular maintenance, stairlifts retain much of their value over time.

Relocating: Unpredictable Market Conditions

The real estate market fluctuates, which may affect how much you can sell your home for.
Moving costs are non-recoverable, making it a more expensive option overall.

5. Why Choose USA Medical Supply for Your Stairlift?

At USA Medical Supply, we’ve helped thousands of families in Hampden, Hampshire, and Hartford counties stay safely in their homes with affordable and reliable stairlift solutions.

Our Advantages:

Free Assessments: We assess your home and recommend the best stairlift for your needs at no cost.
Lifetime Parts and Service Guarantee: Our commitment to quality means your stairlift will always be supported.
Buyback Program: When your stairlift is no longer needed, we offer a buyback option to help you recover part of your investment.
Expert Installation: Our professional technicians ensure that your stairlift is installed safely and efficiently.

Conclusion

When weighing the decision between installing a stairlift or moving to a one-story home, it’s clear that a stairlift offers a cost-effective, low-stress solution for most homeowners. With USA Medical Supply’s affordable pricing, free assessments, and lifetime service, you can confidently age in place and maintain your independence. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward a safer, more accessible home.

Bibliography

Johnson, L. (2023). Aging in Place: Home Modifications for Safety and Comfort. New York: Home Accessibility Press.
Taylor, R. (2022). "Stairlifts and Home Safety: What You Need to Know," Journal of Home Accessibility, 38(4), 203–215.
American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). (2024). Cost Comparison: Home Renovations vs. Relocating. Retrieved from https://www.aarp.org
Smith, J. (2021). Senior Living Solutions: How to Choose the Best Option. Chicago: Mobility Solutions Publications.