It’s reasonable for homeowners to ask how much does it cost to install an elevator early in the process. And while final pricing always depends on design, layout, finish level, and construction requirements, there are typical ranges you can expect based on the type of system you choose.
For a two-story residential installation (the most common scenario), here are realistic price ranges including both the elevator unit and installation:
- Shaftless Home Elevator ($18,500–$30,000): Compact, minimal structure, ideal for retrofit situations and two-level travel.
- Traditional Home Elevator ($30,000–$60,000): Requires a shaftway and framing; offers higher weight capacity and more customization.
- Glass or Premium Custom Elevators ($50,000–$100,000+): Higher-end finishes, panoramic views, and bespoke features often fall in this range.
These figures represent installed costs, meaning the elevator unit, labor, basic electrical work, and standard permitting are included. Structural work like shaft construction, electrical upgrades, or specialized finishes can add to the total. For example, framing and finishing a shaft, adding lighting or architectural cabs, and customizing doors all contribute to the final bill.
It’s also worth noting that typical contractor estimates that focus only on the elevator unit, without shaft or construction, often understate the total investment. That’s why we emphasize evaluating the full scope and cost to install an elevator in a home together from the outset.
