Stairs for Your Tiny Home

Written By Jimmy Hickey

What to Know and What They Cost

Having safe, solid stairs is one of those things that feels small until it matters. Most tiny homes end up needing three or four steps, depending on how high the door sits off the ground. Below are three common approaches with realistic price ranges so you can plan right.

Option 1: Pre-Made Stairs
Quick, Easy, Budget Friendly

Pre-made stairs in front of tiny home

Price: About $100 to $300

These are ready-to-go stairs you can order online. They’re usually metal, designed for RVs and tiny homes, and often show up with non-slip treads included. They’re not going to win any design awards, but they work really well and install fast.

Why people go this route:

  • Works right out of the box

  • No cutting or building needed

  • Great for temporary sites or rentals

  • Easy to move later

Good choice if you want something functional today without worrying about building it yourself.

Option 2: DIY Wood Stairs
Affordable, Customizable

Price: About $250 to $500

This is a practical build-it-yourself option using lumber and pre-cut stair stringers from Home Depot or similar. You pick the size, shape, and materials, and you end up with something that looks a lot more intentional than a generic product.

What you need:

  • Pre-cut stringers or custom cut if you’re confident

  • Pressure-treated lumber or decking boards

  • Screws, treads, and simple handrail if desired

Why this option makes sense:

  • Still cheap once materials are counted

  • You control width, depth, and look

  • Easy for anyone with basic tools

This is a great middle ground if you want something sturdy that feels a bit more like part of the home.

Option 3: Premium or Custom Stairs
Polished Look, Built to Last

Nice stairs outside of tiny home

Price: $400+ (often $600-$1200+ with railings or upgraded materials)

Here we’re talking stairs built with quality wood, composite decking, or paired with custom metal railings. These have a more finished look that matches the porch or exterior of the home, and feel more like a permanent part of the property.

This option usually involves:

  • Better wood species or composite decking

  • Metal or higher-end railing systems

  • A contractor or skilled builder to install

This isn’t cheap, but if you want something that feels intentional and adds value, this is it.

Local Help in Portland

Not into DIY? That’s fine (Neither am I!!) You can absolutely hire someone to build stairs for you. If you’re in Portland or the surrounding area, we have builders who know tiny homes and can do this right. Reach out, and we’ll connect you with local folks who can quote and install.

Quick Comparison

  • Pre-made: least expensive, fastest, decent function

  • DIY wood: midrange, flexible, looks nicer

  • Premium: investment, built to last, great aesthetics

Jimmy Hickey
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Winterizing Your Tiny Home