ADU cost calculator

What will my LA ADU cost?

Adjust the inputs to see permit, design, construction, and soft costs for your specific scenario. Coefficients are LA-market averages, actual contractor bids vary by ±20%.

Cost coefficients as of 2024-2025.

Your project

ADU type

Square footage: 800 sqft

YOU-ADU is a fixed 455 sqft Lehrer Architects design, not adjustable. Pick another plan path to change size.

Finish level

Budget (laminate, basic appliances)

Plan / drawings path

YOU-ADU (free City of LA plan)Paid LADBS designer plan ($2K–$8K license)HCD-approved prefab (factory-certified)Prefab without HCD certificationCustom architect-drawn plan

Lot conditionsHillside lotRequires grading workHas an open / unfinaled permit to clean up

Estimated total

$89,400 – $128,200

Permits + design + construction + soft costs

Breakdown

Permits & fees: $4,500 – $9,500
Design / plans: $0 – $500
Construction: $81,900 – $109,200
Soft costs (engineering, surveys, utilities): $3,000 – $9,000

Approximations only, real contractor bids vary ±20% based on site conditions, finishes, and contractor pricing. Always get 3 bids before signing anything.

Cost coefficients as of 2024-2025 (RSMeans residential per-sqft + LA builder-survey data).

Got an LA address?

Now check what your lot actually allows.

Cost is half the picture. Run your address through the free feasibility wizard for zone, GPLU, overlays, and permit history before you budget further.

Run the wizard →

Estimate look off?

Hillside grading, post-fire rebuild premiums, prefab vs site-built, chat with us about what's driving your numbers.

Chat with us