How Much Does a Wheelchair Cost? [2023 Prices]

Wheelchairs are a vital tool for those with mobility issues, but they can be expensive. 

The cost of a wheelchair varies greatly depending on the type and features. 

Manual wheelchairs typically range from $100 to $800, while power wheelchairs can cost upwards of $5,000. 

Insurance coverage and government assistance programs can help offset the cost, but many individuals are still left to pay for a significant portion out of pocket. 

The decision of which wheelchair to purchase can be overwhelming, and many individuals may not know where to start when it comes to finding the right one for them. 

This article will explore the different types of wheelchairs available and the factors that affect their cost. 

It will also provide resources for finding financial assistance to help make a wheelchair more affordable.

Key Takeaways:

• Wheelchairs can be expensive, with manual wheelchairs typically ranging from $100 to $800 and power wheelchairs costing upwards of $2,000.
• The cost of a wheelchair varies depending on the type and features, so it’s important to consider your specific needs when selecting a wheelchair.
• Insurance coverage and government assistance programs can help offset the cost of a wheelchair, but many individuals still have to pay a significant portion out of pocket.
• A good manual wheelchair will cost around $500, but there are options priced upwards of $1000 for those who require special features.
• Cheap wheelchairs can be found for as low as $100, or even free, by looking for used or outlet options and checking with community organizations or marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook.
• Different types of wheelchairs, such as lightweight, folding, sports, indoor, outdoor, heavy-duty, and tilt-in-space, have varying price ranges.
• Factors that can make a wheelchair more expensive include material, customization, features, brand, technology, and durability.

Average Price of Manual Wheelchairs

On average, manual wheelchairs can cost around $300 to $600. 

It’s important to note that insurance may cover the cost of a manual wheelchair if deemed medically necessary, so it’s a good idea to check with your doctor and provider.

Average Price of Powered Wheelchairs

Regular powered wheelchairs can cost, on average $2000 to $3000 and upwards. 

And again, It’s important to remind you that insurance may cover the cost of a powered wheelchair if deemed necessary by a medical professional so it’s a good idea to bring it up in your next visit.

How Much is a Good Wheelchair?

A good manual wheelchair will cost you around $500, although there are options priced upwards of $1000 if you require special features such as improved ergonomy, portability, or reduced weight.

How Much is the Cheapest Wheelchair?

You can find cheap wheelchairs usually for as low as $100 or even lower if you look for used or outlet ones.

If you are in need of such a device you will probably find them even for free in common marketplaces such as Craigslist or Facebook.

It’s a good idea to also ask around in your community, in places like centers for the elderly or churches, since it’s not unusual for them to have some in stock to lend or even gift.

Different Types of Wheelchairs and Their Prices

There are many different types of wheelchairs in the market, and coming up with an exact categorization that includes everyone is hard.

Here are some of the most common kinds of wheelchairs most patients look for, and their prices:

Manual Wheelchairs:

Lightweight: $200 – $700

Folding: $300 – $800

Sports: $1,500 – $5,000+

Powered Wheelchairs:

Indoor: $1,200 – $5,000

Outdoor: $2,000 – $10,000+

Heavy-duty: $2,000 – $10,000+

Tilt-in-space: $2,000 – $10,000+

Please note that the price can vary depending on the brand, features, and customization options. 

It’s always recommended to check with different providers and compare prices before making a purchase.

What Makes a Wheelchair More Expensive?

There are several factors that can make a wheelchair more expensive. Some of these include:

• Material: Wheelchairs made from higher-quality materials, such as titanium or carbon fiber, will be more expensive than those made from aluminum or steel.
• Customization: Some wheelchairs can be customized to fit the individual user’s needs and preferences. This customization can include things like specialized seating, footrests, or back supports. This will make the wheelchair more expensive.
• Features: Some wheelchairs come with extra features, such as power assist, which can make the wheelchair more expensive.
• Brand: Some wheelchair brands are more well-known and have a higher reputation for quality, which can make them more expensive.
• Technology: Some wheelchairs include advanced technology, like more efficient motors, which will be reflected in their price
• Durability: Some wheelchairs are built to last longer or withstand more wear and tear, aside from their materials, which can make them more expensive.

How Much Should You Spend on a Wheelchair?

When determining how much to spend on a wheelchair, there are a few factors to consider. 

Firstly, consider the type of wheelchair you need. 

Manual wheelchairs are typically less expensive than powered wheelchairs. 

A basic manual wheelchair can cost anywhere between $100 to $500, while a more advanced manual wheelchair with additional features such as adjustable seating or specialized wheels, can cost up to $1000 or more.

On the other hand, as we mentioned earlier, powered wheelchairs can be more expensive. 

A basic powered wheelchair can cost anywhere between $2,000 to $5,000, while a more advanced powered wheelchair with additional features such as adjustable seating or specialized wheels, can cost up to $10,000 or more.

Secondly, consider the duration of use. 

If you will only be using the wheelchair for a short period of time, it may not be necessary to invest in a higher-priced option. 

However, if you will be using the wheelchair long-term, it may be worth investing in a higher-priced option with more durable materials and features that will make it more comfortable to use over time.

Lastly, consider your budget. 

As we saw, there is a wide range of wheelchair options available at different price points. 

It’s important to find a balance between what you can afford and what you need to meet your mobility needs.

To sum up, when determining how much to spend on a wheelchair, consider the type of wheelchair, the duration of use, the features you need, and your budget to find the best option for you. 

It’s important to note that prices may vary depending on the location and the supplier. 

It’s always recommended to get a professional assessment and a quote from a healthcare provider or supplier before making a final decision.

Extra Costs of Owning a Wheelchair

Owning a wheelchair can come with some additional costs beyond the initial purchase price. 

It’s important to consider these costs and budget for them when making a decision about which wheelchair to purchase.

Here are some of the most common costs you might have to face:

• Home adaptations: If you plan to use the wheelchair primarily at home, you may need to make some modifications to your living space. This can include door widening, installing ramps, or making other changes to make your home more accessible. These adaptations can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the scope of the work.
• Repairs: Like any piece of equipment, wheelchairs can experience wear and tear over time and may need repairs. This can include repairs to the wheels, brakes, or other mechanical parts. It’s important to budget for the potential need for repairs, as they can be costly.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your wheelchair in good working condition. This can include things like cleaning, tightening bolts and screws, and lubricating moving parts. Maintenance costs will vary depending on the type of wheelchair and how often it’s used.
• Battery replacement: Powered wheelchairs need to be charged, and the batteries may need to be replaced over time. This can be an additional cost.

Does Insurance or Medicare Cover Wheelchairs?

Insurance and Medicare do cover wheelchairs, but there are some important things to know.

Both insurance and Medicare will only cover a wheelchair if it is deemed medically necessary to perform basic daily activities. 

This means that the wheelchair is needed to help you with mobility issues that prevent you from performing essential daily tasks such as getting in and out of bed, bathing, and moving around your home.

Most insurance and Medicare plans will cover up to 80% of the cost of the wheelchair. This means that you will need to pay the remaining 20% out-of-pocket. 

It’s important to check with your insurance provider or Medicare to find out what is covered and what your out-of-pocket costs will be.

Insurance and Medicare have specific criteria for the type of wheelchairs they cover, and they might not cover certain types of wheelchairs or certain features. 

For example, some plans may only cover manual wheelchairs, while others may extend the coverage to powered wheelchairs.

You will need a prescription from a medical professional and proper documentation to prove that the wheelchair is medically necessary.

It’s important to note that also most insurance providers and Medicare may require a home survey to determine if the patient’s house is suitable for maneuvering and storing a wheelchair. 

This is to ensure that the patient’s living space is safe for use with a wheelchair and that the wheelchair can be safely stored when not in use.

It’s always important to check with your insurance provider or Medicare to see what is covered and what your out-of-pocket costs will be. 

They may also have requirements or limitations for the type of wheelchair that is covered and the documentation needed to qualify.

How to Get a Discounted Wheelchair 

If qualifying for insurance coverage is out of your options, there are a few ways to get a discounted or free wheelchair, such as:

• Buying a used one: Buying a used wheelchair can be a cost-effective way to get one. You can find used wheelchairs through online marketplaces, classified ads, or at local resale shops. While buying a used unit can save you money, it’s important to make sure that the wheelchair is in good working condition before making a purchase.
• Running a fundraiser: You can run a fundraising campaign to raise money for a wheelchair. There are many platforms available such as GoFundMe, Kickstarter, etc that allow you to set up a campaign and share it with your friends and family.
• Asking charities: There are many charities that provide mobility aids to those in need. You can contact local charities or search online to find organizations that provide wheelchairs. Some charities may require you to meet certain criteria, such as having a low income, to be eligible for a free device.
• Medicaid or other state programs: Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides healthcare coverage for low-income individuals and families. Some states also have other programs that provide wheelchairs to those in need. You can check with your state’s Medicaid program or the Department of Health to see if you qualify for a free or discounted wheelchair.
• Medical supply companies: Some medical supply companies offer rental programs that allow you to rent a wheelchair for a period of time. This can be a cost-effective way to get a wheelchair if you only need it for a short period of time.

It’s important to note that the availability of these options will vary depending on location and individual circumstances. 

It’s always recommended to check with a specific company or organization to find out if they offer any discounted or free wheelchairs.

Do You Need a Prescription for a Wheelchair?

No, you do not need a prescription to purchase a wheelchair. 

However, if you want your insurance to cover the cost of the wheelchair, you will need a prescription from your doctor, as we discussed above. 

This prescription should state that the wheelchair is medically necessary for your condition. 

Without a prescription, you would need to pay for the wheelchair out of pocket.

Can You Rent a Wheelchair?

Yes, it is possible to rent a wheelchair. 

Some medical supply companies, pharmacies, and medical equipment rental companies offer wheelchair rental services.

The cost of renting a wheelchair can vary depending on the location, the type of wheelchair, and the length of time you need to rent it. 

However, on average, the cost to rent a manual wheelchair for a day can range from $10 to $30. 

And the cost to rent a powered wheelchair for a day can range from $30 to $100.

If you need to rent a wheelchair for a longer period of time, such as a week, the cost will probably be lower per day. 

For example, to rent a basic manual wheelchair for a week can range from $50 to $100, and the cost to rent a powered wheelchair for a week can range from $200 to $500 or higher.

It’s important to note that these costs are just estimates and may vary depending on the location and the rental company. 

It’s always recommended to check with the specific rental company to find out the exact cost of renting a wheelchair.

All the claims made in this article are only for informational purposes, based on the writer’s experience and not clinical advice. You should always consult your physician or physical therapist if you have any doubts about how this applies to your specific case.