If you need a wheelchair for medical recovery, travel, or a special event, you’re probably wondering: How much does it cost to rent a wheelchair? The answer depends on several key factors, but understanding the basics will help you make the best—and most affordable—choice for your needs. The key factors impacting cost are discussed below.
What Impacts the Cost Of Wheelchair Rental?
The biggest impact on wheelchair cost is the type of wheelchair.
Manual wheelchairs are the simplest, and are designed for users who can propel the chair with their own arms. Within manual chairs, there are a subset known as transport chairs. They are designed to be pushed by a caregiver. They are best for short-term use situations where portability is key.
Power or Electric wheelchairs are the most expensive. They are intended for individuals who lack the ability to operate a manual wheelchair. They generally offer greater range, flexibility and independence over manual chairs.
Pro Tip: Choose the simplest model that meets your needs. Manual and transport chairs are easier to push, lighter to transport, and much less expensive than power or specialty models. You can always upgrade if your needs change.
The second biggest factor of cost is the duration
Not surprisingly, daily and weekly rentals have a higher per-day cost, while monthly rentals work out to be much cheaper in the longer run. Some providers have minimum rental periods for their chairs, only offering weekly or monthly rates, which will impact the minimum rental cost.
Pro Tip: Consider booking for a week or month upfront—even if you only need the chair for a few days, as it offers greater flexibility. Weekly and monthly rates are often much cheaper per day, and many providers offer multi-day discounts.
The next biggest factor is where you rent from
Your choice of rental provider affects both price and experience.
Local medical supply stores offer personalized service and may be able to offer greater variety and flexibility. Online companies provide delivery and ease of online booking, but their service locations can be limited. You also need to make sure the price is actually as advertised, as delivery/convenience fees can raise the price.
You may be able to obtain a rental chair from a charity shop or charitable organization at a minimal or zero cost. However, you may have reduced flexibility on rental period as well as types of chair available.
Pro Tip: If cost is your top concern, check with local charities and compare at least two sources—local and online—for price, delivery, and available models.
Other Factors That Can Impact Price
Delivery & Pickup: Home, hotel, or airport delivery usually costs extra.
Location: Urban and high-demand areas may have higher prices.
Insurance: Medicare or Medicaid may cover part of the cost, but only if you use an approved supplier and have a prescription.
Accessories: Extra cushions, leg rests, or other add-ons can increase the total.
Wheelchair Rental Costs At a Glance:
Manual/Transport Wheelchairs: $15–$30 per day | $60–$150 per week
Power/Electric Wheelchairs: $25–$50 per day | $200–$500 per week
In Closing
It’s important to recognize that while cost is a deciding factor, it is not the only thing you should be looking at. Having a chair with features that most closely match your needs or having the flexibility to return the chair a few days later are sometimes features worth paying for. Finally, one overriding factor is the amount of time you have to call around and compare options and plan your wheelchair rental.