How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Wheelchair — and Is It Worth It?

Mobility difficulties often take one by surprise — after surgery, an accident, or due to aging, and during those times, the idea of renting a wheelchair can pop up as the most convenient and fastest solution. To avoid significant upfront expense, renting a wheelchair for recovery at home or for traveling can be ideal to provide short-term comfort.

In this article, we’ll provide answers to these two frequently asked questions: how much does it really cost to rent a wheelchair and when does buying make more sense? This guide is what you need if you want to learn about the actual wheelchair rental prices, types, inclusions in each plan, and the hidden costs that most people do not consider.

Besides, you will get to discover the smartest money-saving tips and when it is better in the long run to have your own wheelchair. Note that all the information in this article is based on verified data from medical equipment suppliers, hospital rental services, and trusted mobility providers.

Factors That Affect the Wheelchair Rental Cost

Renting a wheelchair obviously raises the question about price as that is the first thing you will notice. Even though wheelchairs from two different rental service providers located in the same city might be almost the same in quality and appearance, their prices could be totally different.

This is so because there are no fixed prices for renting wheelchairs. How much you pay depends on several factors and knowing these factors helps you avoid paying unnecessary fees and most importantly make an informed, more confident decision.

Three major factors contribute to how much you pay to rent a wheelchair. They are as follows:

1. Type of Wheelchair

Manual wheelchairs are the least expensive because they need either physical assistance or self-propulsion. They are ideal for very short periods of use like post-surgery patient recovery at home or for people who need a wheelchair just for a short trip.

Meanwhile, electric wheelchairs also known as power wheelchairs are more advanced and expensive to rent due to their motorized design, comfort features, and battery system. If you value independence and mobility without physical strain, these become worth the higher rental cost.

Simply put: manual = cheaper if you pay upfront, while electric = higher convenience and comfort.

2. Rental Duration

Long before now, most wheelchair rental providers have been known to offer daily, weekly, and monthly rates, and the longer the rental period the more affordable the rate.

To illustrate:

Renting a wheelchair for 3 days may almost equal the price of the whole week.

Whereas, two monthly renewals can be pricier than a 3-month contract at a discount rate.

That is why planning is important. If you are aware that the recovery will take weeks, not days, a long-term rental could be a substantial money saver.

3. Region or Provider

Rentals that are hospital-based are generally less expensive but may have fewer options for models.

Private mobility stores or national rental services are more expensive but at the same time provide better technology and customer support.

Big cities usually have 10–25% higher rates which is caused by the increased demand and delivery costs.

Scootaround's rental data reveals that a regular wheelchair in Las Vegas charges about $56 for three days, whereas in Orlando it is around $40 for the same duration. Scootaround has the rental price for electric wheelchairs as $20 a day in Las Vegas and $58 a day in New York.

Average Wheelchair Rental Prices

Type	Per Day Rate	Per Week Rate	Per Month Rate
Manual Wheelchair	~ $10 - $20	~ $30 - $60	~ $100 - $200
Electric Wheelchair | Power Chair	~ $40 - $70	~ $150 - $300	~ $500 - $900
Transport Chair	~ $8 - $15	~ $25 - $45	~ $80 - $150

The figures above are not fixed but are given based on the most recent rental rates from reputable mobility shops and the national services across the U.S. This is to say, the actual costs may vary depending on your city, type of wheelchair, and various extra services like delivery or insurance.

Short Examples

Renting a manual wheelchair for three weeks will approximately come to $150, which is nearly the price of a used manual chair still in good condition.

An electric wheelchair rent for two months may be between $1,000 and $3,000, which is almost equivalent to the cost of a foldable model like the XSTO M4 Self-Balancing Power Wheelchair.

City Price Variations

The location you are in determines how much rental costs can go for. Big cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami usually set their prices around 10–25% higher than smaller towns because of the higher demand and greater service fees.

For example, Scootaround shows that the average price for weekly manual wheelchair rentals is $45 in Las Vegas Miami, while it is $130 in New York for the same duration.

The difference in prices indicates the need for a thorough comparison of local providers before making a decision, this is particularly necessary for a long-term rental.

Manual vs Electric Wheelchair Rental — Which Is More Cost-Effective?

The first time we compared wheelchair rental options, we realized that the primary question isn't about how much they cost — it’s how you intend to use them. Manual and electric wheelchairs serve the same purpose but are made to fit different lifestyles and needs.

Here’s what you should know about both options and which is cost effective:

Comparing Cost and Convenience

In case you are on a tight rental budget or need mobility support for a couple of weeks, then a manual wheelchair is generally the least expensive option. We’ve seen rentals for manual wheelchair cost around $30 to $60 per week and up to $200 a month.

They are mostly lightweight, unfold and fold easily, and can fit perfectly in the trunk of a car. Still, the user needs to have upper body strength, or be pushed around by a caregiver which can be exhausting if done over long distances.

Conversely, electric wheelchairs, otherwise referred to as power chairs, provide users with freedom and independence that the manual ones can't offer. This type of wheelchair is made for people who want to move around with little to no effort. However, the price is the main downside of its convenience.

The cost of renting an electric wheelchair usually varies from $75 to $325 per week, and in the case of longer renting, sometimes extra charges for maintenance or battery will be included.

If you prefer independence and comfort, then electric wheelchairs are worth investing in. They are ideal for those who sit in it for hours every day. They come with adjustable seats, better motion, and are easier to push around. Manual wheelchairs however, are best options for temporary recovery or infrequent use when the main factor to consider is price.

Example Calculation

Suppose you rent an electric wheelchair for $250 per month for a year it will result in spending a total of $3,000, which is approximately the same amount you would have to pay for a foldable power wheelchair.

In contrast, if you rent a manual wheelchair for about $120 per month, this can result in an overall cost of $720 for six months which makes sense if the rent is for a short-term recovery. However, if the wheelchair will be used everyday, then buying is a more reasonable decision compared to renting.

A personal model like the XSTO M4 is relatively cheaper than continually renewing rental contracts for the long term. The wheelchair is comfortable, self-balancing, and foldable — perfect for travel and daily use without constant worry over paying rental fees.

The Average Wheelchair Rental Cost and What It Covers

Knowing the actual cost to rent a wheelchair is a must do even before considering rental options. The prices of wheelchairs vary frequently depending on the location, type, and duration of the rent. However, the majority of mobility stores and medical equipment providers usually offer pretty much similar pricing layouts.

According to confirmed data from several credible sources in the U.S., below is a general summary of what to expect as the average wheelchair rental cost and what the cost covers overall:

Average Weekly Rental Prices of Wheelchairs

Type	Description	Cost
1. Manual Wheelchair Rentals	The manual wheelchair is the cheapest and most practical solution for temporary use such as recovery after surgeries or for going on trips. The fact that they are lightweight, easy to carry and often provided by hospitals or mobility stores are the reasons for their relatively low prices.	$30 – $60 / per week
2. Electric Wheelchair Rentals	The electric wheelchairs give users more freedom and comfort but this is accompanied by a higher cost. These chairs are suitable for those who can't manage their upper body and need the chair for longer periods throughout the day.	$150 – $300 / per week
3. Transport WheelChair Rentals	Transport wheelchairs are a little cheaper than manual ones but not as supportive. They are ideal for very short distances or when the user is being moved around by a caregiver.	$25 – $45 / per week

What the Rental Typically Covers

The majority of wheelchair rental packages provide one or more of the following basic services:

1. Basic maintenance and cleaning:The wheelchair is guaranteed to be sanitized and operable.

2. Delivery or pickup (optional):In some local areas, a few stores may offer this service for free of charge, while others charge separately.

3. Security deposit:This fee is anywhere between $50 and $200 and is normally refundable. It is used to cover possible damages or late returns.

4. Support hotline or technician access:Some high-end providers will even allow you to use their technicians if you ever need a repair or help with technical problems during your rental period.

Common Exclusions and Hidden Costs

Despite that the pricing is very clear, certain costs might not be revealed right away. The following hidden or recurring costs should be considered:

1. Delivery or collection charges: Depending on distance, these may be anywhere between maximum $75 and $20.

2. Battery change charges: This is crucial for electric wheelchairs, in case the battery runs out mid-rental.

3. Service or cleansing fees:A portion of the deposit might be taken by some providers for this.

4. Overdue return or extension fees:Most of the time, extending the initial contract comes with extra costs.

5. Damage fees:Usually, repairs for scratches, broken parts, or water exposure is not covered.

For example, if you’re to rent an electric wheelchair for three months, it might cost you anywhere from $1,200 to $2,000. This is slightly the same as paying for a low-end power wheelchair.

Meanwhile, in Florida where a rental that’s commonly priced at $300, after delivery and deposit fees are included, the cost might surge up to $420 — this is a clear example of how hidden costs may quickly add up.

To avoid having to pay hidden fees, do well to request for a rental agreement that contains all fees, return policies and services included from the provider. After that, check the cleanliness, comfort and battery life of the wheelchair (if it’s power assisted) to make sure it is up to your expectations before you make payment.

However, in case you are going to use the chair for more than 2–3 months, renting will most likely not be the right option for you.

5 Tips for Getting the Best Wheelchair Rental Deal

For some people, renting a wheelchair — whether for recovery, travel, or maybe short term mobility needs can be overwhelming considering the number of options and pricing differences available in the market.

We’ve been there and trust us when we say trying to balance comfort, cost, and quality isn't always as simple as it seems. It is, however, safe to say the best wheelchairs aren't always the cheapest options, and in all, what matters most is that you make smart choices that are decent enough to meet your needs.

Now you know, check out these proven ways to save your money on rental deals while still getting the best wheelchair to ensure you or your loved ones get the comfort they deserve.

Confirm from at least three providers

It is always important that you first compare prices and services from multiple sources to secure the best rental deals. Some of which may include: hospital equipment rental services, mobility aid shops, and specialized medical equipment providers. These facilities offer unique benefits.

Aside from the above mentioned providers, online reviews can be a game changer especially when you search for “wheelchair rental near me”. That way, you can take note of delivery charges and negotiate better rates while still checking for complaints from other patrons to know what you're getting into.

Negotiate for longer durations

You may think that renting a wheelchair for a few days is cheaper compared to taking it for a month. In reality, the latter is actually better since most providers offer discounted rates for longer durations.

To put this into perspective, a daily rate of $20 might seem affordable at first — but assuming you need the chair for more than two weeks, a monthly plan could cost significantly less overall. That's why we advise that you ask the provider for weekly or monthly discounted packages to cut costs.

In addition, longer term rentals usually come with interesting perks like free maintenance checks or lower delivery fees.

Ask for newer models

Old wheelchairs are often priced lower, but new ones are better as they do not require unexpected costs. By this we mean — no frequent repairs, or discomfort during use. If you're considering daily use or renting for a loved one, a newer well maintained model is always the best option to go for.

Oftentimes, the best way to go about this is to ask the provider directly about the age, condition, and last maintenance date of the model you want to be sure of what you're getting. And if you're in for a discount, a demo or lightly used wheelchair is as good if you want to enjoy smoother maneuverability.

Check warrants and support services

A good rental company stands by its equipment and most importantly, before any agreement they will offer you warranties, replacement policies, and technical support. However, have it in mind that not all rental providers are reliable hence the reason you should ask important questions like:

1. What happens if the wheelchair breaks down mid-rental?

1. Do they offer free repairs or replacements within the rental period?

The truth is that most reputable providers often do and that's why you should always look out for those that clearly state these in their contracts. You may want to know why it is important? Well, having warranty protections means you won't end up paying for something beyond your control.

Use maps and local listings 

Consider renting locally if you want to save more. This way, you won't need delivery fees as they can add up quickly especially for heavy or power assisted wheelchairs. You can search for rental shops nearby that offer pickup options when you look up “wheelchair rental near me” using Google Maps.

The reason you should go for local providers is because most times they offer personalized services and faster response. You may also enjoy swapping, or upgrade benefits without the long waiting times you might experience with national rental chains.

If possible, visit the shop in person. Seeing and testing the wheelchair gives you confidence in what you're paying for and perhaps, you may be lucky enough to find the option that best fits your specific needs.

Know When Buying Is Smarter

But if you’ll be using the wheelchair for more than 2–3 months, renting quickly becomes more expensive than owning one. The longer you need the wheelchair the more sense it will make to buy your own wheelchair. Buying instead of renting means you can customize your wheelchair and have it available anytime.

Around last year when a friend needed a wheelchair for a long term recovery, he opted to purchase rather than rent — and it was the best decision he made for himself. He didn't only avoid recurring costs in the long run but also had immense joy and peace of mind knowing that the wheelchair was always available.

Should you need your own wheelchair? We highly recommend that you consider foldable models. These models are easy to store and travel with if need be. You may want to look at the XSTO M4.

With this wheelchair, you can enjoy both independence and convenience. It is built to fit in a car trunk and powerful enough to navigate urban and outdoor terrains with ease. You can explore lightweight, foldable wheelchair models here.

Final Thoughts

One of the frequently asked questions we get from people with mobility needs is, “Is renting a wheelchair worth it?” To begin with, it all depends on what you need a wheelchair for. If you only need it for a short term, renting comes in handy.

Though, if you are going to use it daily or for a long time then purchasing will be the better choice. Compare your options carefully to see if your budget fits your needs and make sure that the option you select gives you the comfort, confidence, and freedom that you require for every day use.