Wheelchair Ramp Cost

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

1. Average Cost

Typical Range: $400–$3,250
Per Linear Foot: $50–$250
Portable Ramps: $100–$2,000
Permanent Ramps: $1,000–$6,000

2. Cost by Material

| Material | Cost per Linear Foot | Notes |
|-------------------------|--------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Wood | $100–$250 | Requires maintenance; slippery when wet unless treated. |
| Concrete | $200–$250 | Durable but more expensive due to labor for pouring and setting. |
| Steel/Metal | $200–$250 | Strong, but prone to rust without galvanized or treated steel. |
| Aluminum | $150–$200 | Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, durable; textured finishes recommended for grip. |
| Composite | $150–$200 | Resistant to moisture, insects, and rot. |
| Prefabricated Aluminum | $100–$150 | Manufactured sections; cost-effective but with longer lead times. |
| Rubber | $50–$150 | Suitable for short thresholds or temporary use; not ideal for long ramps. |

3. Cost by Ramp Type

| Ramp Type | Cost Range | Details |
|------------------------|-------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Permanent | $1,000–$6,000 | Long-term solution, customizable, and ADA-compliant. |
| Semi-Permanent | $350–$2,000 | Not anchored; flexible placement for short-term needs. |
| Modular | $400–$5,000 | Prefabricated, quick assembly, customizable but size-dependent. |
| Portable | $100–$2,000 | Includes folding, roll-up, and track ramps; easy to transport and use temporarily. |
| Mini Ramps | $100–$200 | Affordable; designed for thresholds or single steps. |

4. Factors Affecting Cost

Ramp Size:
Longer ramps cost more; ADA requires a 1:12 slope (1 foot of ramp per inch of rise).
Weight Capacity:
Heavier-duty ramps for powered wheelchairs increase costs.
Landings:
Required every 30 feet (or 30 inches of rise) for ADA compliance.
Handrails:
Cost ~$80 per linear foot, mandatory for ramps with more than a 6-inch rise.
Permits:
Required for permanent installations; costs range from $30–$120.
Labor Costs:
$35–$100/hour for professional installation depending on contractor and location.

5. Indoor vs. Outdoor Ramps

Indoor Ramps: $200–$2,000
Typically smaller, portable, and more cost-effective.
Outdoor Ramps: $1,200–$5,000
Built with weather-resistant materials for durability.

6. Additional Costs to Consider

Ramp Lighting: $15–$100 (increases safety at night).
Slope Adjustments: ADA-compliant ramps must have consistent slopes (no steeper than 8.33%).
Maintenance: $570–$2,000/year (repairing railings, resurfacing, replacing grit strips).
Removal: $550–$1,650 (removal and disposal of damaged ramps).

7. Ways to Save Money

Opt for Portable or Prefabricated Ramps:
Cost-effective and quick to install.
Minimize Size:
Compact ramps that are ADA-compliant reduce costs.
Insurance Assistance:
Medicare: May cover ramps as Durable Medical Equipment (DME) if medically necessary.
Medicaid: Often covers ramps through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers.
Veteran Assistance:
Eligible veterans can apply for VA grants like HISA or Cash and Counseling.
Nonprofit Support:
Local programs and nonprofits may offer free or discounted ramps.

8. DIY vs. Professional Installation

DIY:
Saves $35–$100/hour on labor; better suited for prefabricated or portable ramps.
Not recommended for permanent ramps requiring ADA compliance or structural integrity.
Professional:
Ensures safety, proper installation, and adherence to guidelines.

Pro Tip: Always consult with a professional to ensure your ramp is safe, durable, and ADA-compliant. Investing in the right design and materials provides long-term accessibility for everyone.