ADU Cost Calculator: Estimate Your Project with Confidence

Construction of an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) can be a smart move - whether you are a homeowner who wants to expand your home, an investor who wants to increase your property value, or a contractor who wants to estimate costs. One of the most common inquiries is: how much will it cost? Our ADU Cost Calculator is created to give you a realistic, fact-based estimate for your specific project goals.

The ADU building price is highly variable depending on size, materials, location, and labor. Our ADU calculator simplifies this by employing industry averages and recent pricing trends to make it simple for you to: 

• Plan your budget with greater accuracy

• Understand which elements influence cost the most

• Compare options like detached ADUs, garage conversions, and above-garage units

• Save time on manual calculations and guesswork

Instead of vague ballpark figures, you get a tailored estimate that can guide key decisions early in the planning process. We at ADU Pro will be happy to help you with this.

Cost to Build a Garage Calculator: Compare and Plan Effectively

Thinking about turning your garage into an ADU or building a new one from the ground up? Our cost to build a garage calculator makes it easy to figure out what it might cost. Just plug in a few details and get an instant estimate that covers everything from framing and roofing to insulation, garage doors, and any structural upgrades you might need. Whether it's a simple conversion or a full-on build with living space above, the calculator gives you a clear view of where your money's going and how to make the most of what you already have.

Factors That Affect ADU Costs

The ultimate cost of an ADU is not a one-size-fits-all figure. Here are the most important cost drivers:

1. Type and Size of the ADU

• Detached ADUs (built separately from the main house) are usually more expensive due to foundation and utility hookups.

• Garage conversions tend to be more affordable since the structure already exists.

• Above-garage ADUs require structural reinforcement, which adds to costs.

Size matters too. More square footage means more materials, labor, and permitting.

2. Materials and Finishes

The materials you choose significantly impact cost:

• Basic materials (vinyl flooring, laminate countertops) keep costs low

• Premium finishes (hardwood floors, stone counters) raise the budget

Also consider framing, roofing, insulation, and HVAC systems. Our ADU cost calculator accounts for material choices so you can see how upgrades affect your total.

3. Labor and Contractor Rates

Labor costs vary based on your location and job size. You can expect to pay more for skilled labor in areas with greater demand or stricter building codes. Local contractor availability can also influence scheduling and costs.

4. Permits and Design Fees

Architectural plans and permits are required - and they don't come cheap. They can range anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000 or more in your locality. Impact fees for new structures are also charged by some local governments.

5. Utility Connections

It may cost several thousand to connect an ADU to existing sewer, water, gas, and electrical lines. Independent meters are sometimes required in certain situations and are an additional cost. 

6. Site Conditions

Uneven land, limited access for construction equipment, or existing structures that need demolition can increase costs. A flat, accessible lot is usually cheaper to build on.

How Our ADU Cost Calculator Works

Our tool asks a few simple questions about your:

• Property type and location

• Desired ADU size and layout

• Materials and finish level

• Whether you're converting an existing garage or building from scratch

It then generates a detailed cost breakdown. You can try different scenarios and immediately see how changes affect the total. Whether you're building a backyard cottage or upgrading a garage, the cost to build a garage calculator feature is integrated to make comparisons easy.

Financing Your ADU: Try Our ADU Loan Calculator

Worried about how to finance your project? The ADU loan calculator helps you understand loan options based on current interest rates, project cost, and down payment. Whether you're using a home equity loan, construction loan, or refinance strategy, this tool helps you:

• Compare loan types and monthly payments

• Estimate payback periods

• Assess rental income potential for investment-focused builds

An ADU can generate between $1,500 to $3,000/month in rental income depending on your market. Our ADU loan calculator lets you evaluate ROI before you commit.

Real-World Benefits of Building an ADU

Still deciding if it's worth it? ADU Scale suggests considering these benefits:

• Increased property value: ADUs can raise home value by 20% to 35%, according to recent real estate studies.

• Rental income: A detached ADU can function as a long-term rental or short-term vacation unit.

• Multigenerational living: ADUs offer privacy for aging parents, adult children, or live-in caregivers.

• Flexible use: Use your ADU as a home office, studio, or guesthouse.

Get Started: Calculate Your ADU Cost Now

Our goal is to empower you with tools that remove the guesswork and provide clarity. Whether you’re exploring the cost to build a garage calculator, estimating materials with our ADU cost calculator, or checking finances through the ADU loan calculator, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.

Ready to get started?

Calculate the cost of your ADU now.
Find out if ADUs are allowed in your city.

Smart planning starts with reliable information. Use our calculators to make the most informed decision possible - and take the first step toward building your ADU.