ADU Cost Estimate · Free · 48-hour turnaround

A real number
for your lot.

No generic ranges from the internet. We use your actual property — lot size, zoning, setbacks, slope — to give you a cost you can plan against.

48h

Turnaround

Cost

All 5

ADU types

Ballpark ranges

What ADUs typically cost in Los Angeles.

These are industry averages — useful for sanity-checking but not a substitute for a property-specific estimate. Your number will fall somewhere in these ranges depending on your lot, scope, and finish level.

ADU type	Low	High	Notes
Garage conversion	$60K	$150K	Fastest path. Lowest cost. Uses existing structure.
Attached ADU	$130K	$300K	Shares wall with primary home. Efficient footprint.
Detached ADU	$180K	$450K	Standalone structure. Most privacy, most flexibility.
Internal (basement/attic)	$80K	$200K	Convert existing interior space. Fastest permit.

Ranges include design, permits, construction, and standard fees. Land, major grading, or luxury finishes may push the high end.

Cost factors

What moves the number.

Size & layout: A 500 sq ft studio costs significantly less per foot than a 1,200 sq ft 3-bedroom with two bathrooms and full kitchen.
Site conditions: Slope, soil type, setback constraints, utility runs, tree removal — all affect site-prep cost before construction starts.
Finish level: Rental-grade vs. primary-residence quality. Appliances, countertops, flooring, cabinetry choices drive the final 20–30%.
Permits & fees: LA plan-check fees, utility-connection fees, impact fees. We include these as a line item so nothing is hidden.

No surprises

“Their estimate came in at $285K. Final invoice was $287K. Two grand over on a nine-month project is honestly the cleanest I've ever seen a contractor run a budget.”

Jennifer K. · Glendale, CA · Detached ADU, 820 sq ft

Questions

Estimate FAQ

Still have a question? Ask us during your free consultation.

Why don't you just post a price list?

Because every lot and every homeowner's goals are different. A $120K garage conversion and a $400K detached ADU can both be 'right' answers depending on your property and what you want the ADU for. We'd rather tell you the real number for your specific situation.

What does the estimate include?

Design, permits, construction, major finishes, and standard fees. We break it down line by line so you can see exactly what's in and what's not. No surprise fees mid-project.

How long until I get an estimate after filling this out?

Within 48 hours. We review your property via satellite + public records, talk with you briefly, and send a written range with assumptions clearly listed.

Is my estimate locked in?

The initial estimate is a good-faith range based on preliminary info. Once we do a site visit and formal scope, we give you a firm proposal you can hold us to.

Real numbers · Your property