ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) budget
What does a adu (accessory dwelling unit) cost in Los Angeles?
Typical all-in project ranges — labor, materials, and permits — based on greater Los Angeles costs. Your answers in the tool above narrow these to a working budget.
Budget-Friendly adu (accessory dwelling unit)
A budget-friendly adu (accessory dwelling unit) in Los Angeles typically runs $90,000–$130,000 for a small — under 400 sq ft (studio), $130,000–$180,000 for a medium — 400–600 sq ft (one-bedroom), $180,000–$260,000 for a large — 600–1,200 sq ft (two-bedroom).
Mid-Range adu (accessory dwelling unit)
A mid-range adu (accessory dwelling unit) in Los Angeles typically runs $130,000–$180,000 for a small — under 400 sq ft (studio), $180,000–$260,000 for a medium — 400–600 sq ft (one-bedroom), $260,000–$380,000 for a large — 600–1,200 sq ft (two-bedroom).
High-End adu (accessory dwelling unit)
A high-end adu (accessory dwelling unit) in Los Angeles typically runs $180,000–$250,000 for a small — under 400 sq ft (studio), $260,000–$360,000 for a medium — 400–600 sq ft (one-bedroom), $380,000–$550,000 for a large — 600–1,200 sq ft (two-bedroom).
Where the money goes
| Line item | Share of project cost |
|---|---|
| Design, Engineering & Permits | 10% |
| Foundation & Framing | 20% |
| Plumbing Rough-In & Sewer Tie-In | 10% |
| Electrical & Panel Upgrade | 8% |
| Mini-Split HVAC | 6% |
| Insulation & Drywall (Title 24) | 8% |
| Kitchen, Bath & Finishes | 22% |
| Labor & Site Work | 16% |
Biggest cost drivers: What you're building (a garage conversion reuses the existing structure and runs well below a detached new build), utility hookup distance from the main house, and permit/impact fees, which vary a lot by city. An attached unit also has to tie into and match the existing roof, which is where attached builds surprise people.These are planning ranges, not a quote — final pricing always comes from contractor bids.