Car Lift Installation Cost

Garage Lift Installation Cost: What’s the Ballpark?

Thinking about getting a car lift for your home garage or shop? You’ve probably already priced the lift itself—but what about the installation? A lot of folks don’t factor that in upfront, and it can make or break your total budget.

Let’s break down the car lift installation cost, what influences the price, and what you can expect to pay depending on your setup.

In most cases, installing a car lift will cost somewhere between $800 and $2,000, depending on the type of lift and how much work your garage needs.

Here’s a rough breakdown:

• 2-post lift installation – $900 to $1,500
• 4-post lift installation – $700 to $1,200 (often easier to install)
• Scissor or mid-rise lift – $500 to $1,000
• In-ground or commercial lifts – $2,000+ and often require permits

These prices assume you already have a proper concrete slab, electrical hookup, and enough ceiling height. If not, expect to pay extra for upgrades like:

• Concrete reinforcement or re-pour
• Upgraded electrical circuits (220V)
• Anchoring or trenching work
• Ceiling or lighting adjustments

Let’s say you’re putting in a standard 2-post lift in your home garage.

Total Estimated Cost: $1,200 to $2,500

If you already have a solid 4″–6″ concrete slab and your garage has 10+ foot ceilings, you’re probably on the lower end of that range.

At HeavyLift Direct, we don’t offer installation ourselves, but we can recommend quality installers across the U.S. Many of our customers have had great experiences with local pros we’ve referred.

Need help finding an installer in your area? Just give us a call at 1-800-474-6537, and we’ll point you in the right direction.

You can install some 4-post and scissor lifts yourself if you're handy. But when it comes to 2-post lifts, we recommend leaving it to the pros.

Reasons to hire an installer:

• Anchoring requires precision
• Electrical tie-in is safer handled by a licensed electrician
• Incorrect setup = safety hazard or damaged lift
• Most warranties don’t cover improper installation

• Measure your ceiling height – Most 2-post lifts need at least 10'–12' clearance
• Know your concrete slab – You’ll need at least 4” thick, 3,000 psi concrete
• Plan for power – Many lifts need 220V, 20A circuits
• Clear the area – Make sure installers have space to work

Buying a lift is a smart move—but don’t forget the cost to install a car lift in your garage. Budgeting for labor, concrete, and electrical work ensures you’re not surprised when it’s time to bolt it in.

Got questions or want a referral for a local installer? Give us a call or use the contact us form. We’re happy to help.

See Also:

• Space Requirements for 2 Post Lifts
• Is a Car Lift worth it?