Vertical Platform Lift Cost Guide

Installing a vertical platform lift (VPL) is a practical and cost-effective way to make your building more accessible. Whether installed to upgrade an existing space or designed to fit a new one, these ADA compliant lifts offer customizable options to fit your functional needs and visual preferences. Understanding the costs involved—along with key factors that impact pricing—can help you plan effectively. Here’s what you need to know when considering vertical platform lift cost.

The Average Vertical Platform Lift Cost 

The cost of a vertical platform lift can vary widely depending on your building’s needs and specifications. Commercial VPLs—also known as vertical wheelchair lifts—typically range from $30,000 to over $80,000 for high-end or fully customized models. 

Elements like location, application, and project complexity play a significant role in determining the final price of a VPL. Understanding these variables can help you budget more accurately for your accessibility lift upgrade.

Structural Factors That Influence Vertical Platform Lift Price 

Location 

The location of the wheelchair lift influences price. For instance, indoor versus outdoor use, building height, and state and local codes can all affect cost. Additionally, commercial settings come with different requirements than residential wheelchair lifts.

Height 

The vertical distance a VPL needs to cover will also impact its cost. Commercial VPLs can accommodate anywhere from under 2 to 14 feet of vertical travel, with prices increasing as the height requirement grows.

• Short-rise VPLs (under 2 to 5 feet)—The most affordable option, ideal for overcoming small barriers like raised entrances or short stairways.
• Medium-rise VPLs (5 to 10 feet)—A mid-range solution that works well for mezzanines, loading docks, or split-level spaces.
• Tall VPLs (10 to 14 feet)—The highest-priced of the three, but also the most versatile. These lifts can transport users between floors, making them a cost-effective alternative to commercial elevators in certain instances. For example, a tall VPL in a restaurant could provide access from the first floor to an upper-level dining area at a fraction of the cost of installing a commercial elevator, while still ensuring accessibility. 

Types of Vertical Platform Lift

The cost of a vertical platform lift depends on the type you choose. There are four main options: unenclosed, shaftway, enclosed, and hybrid—each designed for different applications and price points.

1. Unenclosed VPLs

As the name suggests, these lifts are open rather than enclosed, making them one of the most affordable options. However, unenclosed lifts aren’t always permitted in commercial settings. Some states require enclosed solutions for safety and compliance. That said, if local regulations allow, Unenclosed VPLs are a cost-effective way to improve accessibility for short vertical distances.

2. Shaftway (Hoistway) VPLs  

Designed to fit inside a pre-constructed shaft, this type of lift balances cost and enclosure. While more expensive than an unenclosed model, it provides greater protection and a built-in look. A key requirement: The wall or railing at the top landing must be at least 42 inches tall. Unlike a traditional elevator shaft, a shaftway VPL can remain open at the top, reducing construction costs.

3. Enclosed VPLs

An enclosed VPL has its own built-in enclosure, eliminating the need for a separate shaft. This makes it a more convenient, yet slightly pricier, option than a shaftway VPL. The added enclosure provides protection from the elements for outdoor installations and allows for extensive customization to match the surrounding architecture. If looks are a priority, this is a strong choice.

4. Hybrid VPLs

For a premium look without the cost of a full commercial elevator, hybrid VPLs offer a luxury feel with the functionality of a wheelchair lift. These lifts meet accessibility and safety codes while mimicking the experience of an elevator, featuring enclosed designs with high-end finishes like wood paneling and custom interiors. While the most expensive VPL type, they provide a seamless, polished accessibility solution for high-end commercial spaces.

Vertical Platform Lift Customizations That Affect Price

One of the biggest advantages of a vertical platform lift is its flexibility. You can tailor it to match your building’s needs. From color and size options to automation features, you can control the final look and functionality.

Several key factors influence the overall cost of your VPL. Here are three major considerations that impact total vertical platform lift cost.

Aesthetics 

A commercial vertical platform lift doesn’t have to look industrial if you don’t want it to. You can upgrade from standard metal walls to a sleek plexiglass enclosure, creating a more open, modern feel for users. Additionally, custom colors and finishes allow you to match the lift to your building’s design, making it a seamless part of the space rather than just a functional addition.

Automation

VPL doors can be manual or automatic, with automated options adding convenience and accessibility. In some cases, building codes require automatic doors for compliance. Even when not mandatory, automatically-opening doors improve ease of use, especially in high-traffic areas or for users with mobility challenges.

Size & Layout

The number of stops and platform size directly impact the cost of a VPL. A simple two-stop lift requires fewer landing gates and control mechanisms than one serving multiple floors. Similarly, larger platforms—designed to provide more maneuvering space for wheelchairs—cost more than standard-sized options.

Contact a Vertical Platform Lift Expert to Get Started

VPL or wheelchair lift cost depends on style, size, and customization choices. The experts at Arrow Lift® are here to help you find the best solution for your space within your budget. With decades of industry experience, we’ll guide you through the selection process to ensure you get a safe, reliable, cost-effective VPL that meets your needs.

Have questions or want to schedule a no-obligation, on-site consultation? Contact us today.