How Much Does an ADU Cost in Los Angeles? (2026)
Short answer: most Los Angeles ADUs cost $150,000 to $400,000+ — about $300–$450 per square foot. Garage conversions start lower. Here's how that breaks down, what drives the price, and how to budget.
ADU cost by type (Los Angeles, 2026)
| ADU type | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Garage conversion | $95,000 – $245,000 | Depends on the existing structure and added square footage. |
| Attached ADU | $150,000 – $300,000 | Shares a wall and utilities with the main home — often mid-range. |
| Detached ADU (1-story) | $200,000 – $350,000 | The most popular option; ~$300–$450/sq ft. |
| Detached ADU (2-story) | $300,000 – $459,000+ | More structure and stairs push cost higher. |
City of LA plan-check & permit fees (about $3,000–$6,000) are paid to the city and are on top of construction. We handle the submittal for you.
What drives the price
- Size & type — square footage and detached vs. conversion are the biggest levers.
- Site conditions — grading, retaining, soil, and utility runs on hillside or tight lots add cost.
- Finishes — cabinetry, counters, flooring, and fixtures move the number meaningfully.
- Utilities — new sewer, water, and a separate electrical sub-panel.
- Soft costs — design, engineering, Title-24, and city fees (~$20k–$40k typical).
Timeline
Roughly 2–4 months for design and permits, then 3–5 months to build — about 6–9 months end to end. State law requires the city to approve or deny a complete ADU application within 60 days.
Is an ADU worth it?
A detached ADU can add roughly $250k–$300k+ in property value and rent for about $2,000–$3,200/month in Los Angeles — so many owners see strong ROI, and there's no owner-occupancy requirement on a standard ADU. (Market estimates, not guarantees.)
How Home Make Over prices ADUs
We give fixed written pricing after a free on-site visit — no moving numbers — handle the full LADBS permit path, and we'll beat any legitimate quote in town. Licensed, bonded & insured, based in Reseda and serving the San Fernando Valley and greater LA.
ADU cost FAQ
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Los Angeles?
Most Los Angeles ADUs run about $150,000 to $400,000+ — roughly $300 to $450 per square foot. Garage conversions start lower (about $95,000–$225,000). Your exact price depends on size, type, site conditions, and finishes. These are market estimates, not a quote.
How much is a garage conversion ADU?
Garage conversions in LA typically run about $95,000 to $245,000 depending on the condition of the existing structure and whether you add square footage.
What are the city permit fees for an ADU?
In the City of Los Angeles, plan-check and permit fees usually run about $3,000 to $6,000, paid directly to the city. Home Make Over handles the full submittal and coordination.
How long does it take to build an ADU?
Plan on about 2–4 months for design and permits, then 3–5 months of construction — roughly 6–9 months end to end.
Is an ADU a good investment in Los Angeles?
Often yes. A detached ADU can add roughly $250k–$300k+ in property value and rent for about $2,000–$3,200/month in LA, so many owners see strong ROI. Market estimates, not guarantees.
Figures are market estimates for Los Angeles in 2026 and are not a quote. Your price depends on your specific project.