What does an ADU cost in Los Angeles?

The calculator shows the typical range that comparable projects land in across Los Angeles. It is deliberately a range: the exact number depends on your property, the condition of your garage or lot, and your material choices. After a free feasibility check we match you with a vetted licensed contractor, whose site visit turns the range into one fixed proposal. That is the number your contractor stands behind.

The structure already exists: the foundation, walls and roof are there, and no new footprint is added. That saves on excavation, framing and often on planning requirements too. In California, converting a garage also does not require replacement parking, which keeps the scope tight.

Design, LADBS permits, construction, standard finishes and the trades you need to reach final inspection: electrical, plumbing and HVAC. Not included are things nobody can predict without seeing your property, such as major sewer upgrades, an electrical panel upgrade or heavy site work. Your contractor flags those during the free site visit before you commit to anything.

Usually the opposite: the expensive parts of an ADU are the kitchen and bathroom, which every unit needs regardless of size. Extra bedroom or living space is comparatively cheap to add, so larger units often have a lower cost per square foot.

Under California law, an ADU or JADU with less than 500 square feet of interior livable space is exempt from school district fees, which are otherwise charged per square foot. There is a second threshold at 750 square feet: below it, cities may not charge impact fees at all; at 750 and above, impact fees apply proportionally. That is why many Los Angeles ADUs are designed at 499 square feet. Our calculator flags both thresholds while you slide, and your contractor confirms the exact fees for your property in the proposal.

Many of our clients use a home equity line of credit, a cash-out refinance or a renovation loan. Rental income from the finished ADU often covers a large part of the monthly cost. We do not provide financing ourselves, but we are happy to talk you through what other homeowners in your situation typically do.

As a rule of thumb: plans and LADBS permits take a few months, and construction takes two to five months depending on the project type. A garage conversion is usually the fastest route because the structure already exists.