One of the most common questions we hear at the shop is how much does a lift kit cost. The honest answer is that it depends, but that answer is not very helpful when you are trying to budget for a build. So let us break down every cost category, from basic leveling kits to full suspension overhauls, so you can plan your project with real numbers.
This guide reflects 2026 pricing based on what we see at Redline Auto Creations in Tampa. Prices vary by region, vehicle, and shop, but these ranges give you a solid starting point.
Total installed cost for a lift kit in 2026 typically falls into one of three brackets:
These numbers include parts and labor but not supporting modifications, which we will cover below.
A leveling kit is the most affordable way to change your truck's stance. It raises the front of the vehicle one to two and a half inches to eliminate the factory rake.
Parts cost: $100 to $500 depending on the kit type. Basic polyurethane spacers are on the low end. Strut extension kits with new upper mounts are on the higher end.
Labor cost: $200 to $400 for a typical installation. The work usually takes two to three hours.
What is included: Front spacers or strut extensions, hardware, and installation. An alignment is usually recommended after installation and may or may not be included in the labor estimate.
What is not included: Rear blocks or add-a-leaf kits if you want to raise the rear slightly as well. These add $100 to $300 in parts and $100 to $200 in labor.
For a comparison of leveling kits and full lift kits, check out our detailed guide here.
Body lifts use spacers between the truck body and the frame to raise the body one to three inches. They do not change the suspension or ground clearance. They exist primarily to provide tire clearance at a lower cost than suspension lifts.
Parts cost: $200 to $700. The kit includes spacers (usually polyurethane), longer body mount bolts, and sometimes bumper relocation brackets.
Labor cost: $300 to $800. Installation takes three to five hours, depending on the vehicle. Some trucks have more body mount bolts than others, and electrical or fuel line extensions may be required.
The trade-off: Body lifts are inexpensive, but they create a visible gap between the body and frame that many owners find unappealing. They also do nothing for off-road performance. We generally recommend saving up for a suspension lift instead.
Suspension lifts modify the actual suspension components to raise the entire vehicle. The cost varies enormously based on the lift height, kit quality, and vehicle platform.
These kits typically include:
Parts cost: $800 to $2,500. Budget kits from entry-level brands use spacers on top of factory springs and may or may not include new shocks. Mid-range kits in this bracket include replacement springs and basic aftermarket shocks.
Labor cost: $700 to $1,500. Installation typically takes five to eight hours.
Ride quality: With budget kits, expect a firmer ride than stock. Kits that reuse factory shocks with spacers are the worst offenders. Spending a few hundred more on matched shocks makes a noticeable difference.
This is the sweet spot for many truck owners. These kits include:
Parts cost: $2,000 to $5,000. The price jump reflects the inclusion of more components and better-quality hardware. Kits from Fox, King, Icon, BDS, and similar brands live in this range.
Labor cost: $1,500 to $2,500. Expect a full day of installation, eight to twelve hours.
Ride quality: Significantly better than budget kits. Matched springs and shocks work together as a system, and new control arms maintain proper suspension geometry. Many owners report that a quality mid-range lift rides better than stock.
These are complete suspension system replacements designed for serious off-road performance or extreme tire sizes.
Components typically include everything in a mid-range kit plus:
Parts cost: $4,000 to $10,000+. Premium brands like King, Fox, Carli, and Accutune command top dollar for their engineering and build quality.
Labor cost: $2,000 to $5,000. Complex installations with driveshaft work and extensive component replacement can take two or more days.
The lift kit itself is only part of the total project cost. Depending on your lift height and tire size, you may also need:
If you are lifting your truck, you are probably planning to run larger tires. A set of four 33-inch all-terrain tires runs $800 to $1,200. A set of 35-inch tires costs $1,000 to $1,600. Moving to 37s or larger pushes the price to $1,600 to $2,500 or more.
Larger tires often require wider wheels with different offsets. Budget cast wheels start around $150 each. Quality mid-range wheels run $250 to $500 each. Forged wheels can exceed $800 per wheel. Read our wheel guide for full details here.
When you increase tire size, you change the effective gear ratio. A truck that shifted smoothly with 33-inch tires may feel sluggish and hunt for gears with 37s. Regearing the front and rear differentials restores the power delivery. This is essential for lifts with tire sizes 35 inches and above.
Every lift kit requires an alignment afterward. Some shops include this in their installation price. Others charge separately. Make sure you clarify this upfront.
Lifts above four inches often change the driveshaft angle beyond acceptable limits. Fixes range from inexpensive carrier bearing drop kits ($100 to $300) to complete driveshaft replacement ($800 to $1,500).
Higher lifts extend the distance between the frame-mounted brake line hard lines and the caliper-mounted flex lines. If the factory lines do not have enough slack, they can stretch or snap. Extended lines are a safety-critical item.
New bump stops prevent the suspension from over-compressing and making contact with the frame or body. They are inexpensive insurance against costly damage.
Here are three realistic example builds with total costs:
Do it in phases. If budget is a concern, start with the lift kit and alignment, then add tires and wheels when you can afford quality components. Running factory tires on a lifted truck temporarily is fine.
Skip the body lift. If you are considering a body lift to save money, save a bit longer and do a proper suspension lift instead. You will be happier with the result.
Invest in the shocks. The single biggest impact on ride quality comes from the shock absorbers. If you have to choose where to spend extra, put it in the shocks.
Buy the right kit the first time. We see customers who buy a two-inch kit, then six months later want to go to four inches. Now they are paying for a second kit, a second installation, and a second alignment. If you know you want four inches, do it right from the start.
Not all trucks are created equal when it comes to lift kit pricing. Here are some platform-specific notes:
Ford F-150 (2015+). The independent front suspension on modern F-150s means lift kits require upper control arms and CV axle consideration. Budget accordingly for the additional components. The aluminum body saves weight but does not affect lift kit pricing.
Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500. These trucks respond well to lifts in the three to six-inch range. The stamped steel control arms can be upgraded to tubular aftermarket units for improved strength and increased caster adjustment.
Ram 1500 (2019+). The air suspension option on some Ram trucks adds complexity and cost. If your Ram has factory air suspension, the lift kit must work with or replace that system, which increases the price by $500 to $1,500.
Jeep Wrangler/Gladiator. Solid axle vehicles are generally simpler and less expensive to lift. However, the Jeep community tends to push builds further, which means higher total project costs due to larger tires, regearing, and additional armor.
Ford F-250/F-350 and other HD trucks. Heavy-duty trucks use beefier suspension components that cost more to replace. Expect to pay 20 to 40 percent more for comparable lift heights compared to half-ton trucks.
Lift kit installation involves safety-critical suspension and steering components. Improper installation can cause steering wander, uneven tire wear, premature component failure, and in worst cases, loss of vehicle control.
A professional shop also has the alignment equipment, torque specifications, and experience to do the job correctly. The labor cost is a worthwhile investment in your safety and in protecting the value of the parts you purchased.
DIY installation is possible for experienced mechanics with proper tools, but it carries risks. If a control arm bolt is not torqued correctly or a brake line is not routed properly, the consequences can be severe. The money you save on labor is not worth the risk if you do not have the expertise and equipment. Professional shops also have access to alignment racks that can measure and adjust caster, camber, and toe to factory specifications after the lift is installed, which is critical for tire longevity and safe handling.
Every vehicle is different, and every owner's goals are unique. The ranges in this guide give you a framework for budgeting, but the best way to get an accurate number is to talk to a shop that knows your platform.
At Redline Auto Creations, we provide detailed, itemized quotes before any work begins. No surprises, no hidden fees. With 61 full builds and 149 satisfied customers, we know how to plan a project that fits your goals and your budget.
Visit us at 11626 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33612, or call (813) 544-4009 to get your personalized quote.
At Redline Auto Creations, we specialize in crafting custom vehicles with precision and passion. From wheels and tires to suspension, performance upgrades, and custom designs, we bring your vision to life. Contact us today and transform your ride.
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