How much does it cost to build an ADU in South Florida?
For budgeting purposes, figure out the ADU cost per square foot, which runs at $150-400+ per square foot, for your all-in cost to build a detached ADU for units ranging from 500 to 1200 sqft. Roughly 80-85% of those costs are for vertical building construction (the construction of the structure itself, e.g., the building and standard finishes).
To get to the all-in cost to build a granny flat, also factor in the ADU costs from design ($12K), permitting (~$2-14/sqft in fees depending on the city), and typical site work ($25K). Also, assume an average of $30-50K+ for additional work specific to your property requirements, like utility upgrades. We review over 75 factors for each property to assess all the relevant costs for your ADU project.
The cost per square foot for constructing an ADU in Florida can vary widely based on several factors, including the quality of materials, design complexity, and local labor costs. Here’s a general range:
- Low-End Construction: The cost can range from $150 to $200 per square foot for basic construction with standard materials and minimal customization.
- Mid-Range Construction: For better quality materials and finishes, more amenities, and a moderately complex design, the cost can range from $200 to $300 per square foot.
- High-End Construction: The cost of premium materials, custom designs, high-end appliances, and luxury finishes can range from $300 to $400 per square foot.
These ranges are general estimates, and actual costs can vary depending on specific project details and local market conditions. FL ADU Services will work with you to get the most desirable product within your budget.
Here is the converted chart using the provided cost-per-square-foot ranges
| Type | Size | Vertical Build Cost* | Build cost per sqft | Typical All-In Cost | All-in cost per sqft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR/1BA | 500 sqft | $75K – $100K | $150 – $200 | $100K – $150K | $200 – $300 |
| 2BR/1BA | 750 sqft | $112.5K – $150K | $150 – $200 | $150K – $225K | $200 – $300 |
| 2BR/2BA | 1000 sqft | $150K – $200K | $150 – $200 | $200K – $300K | $200 – $300 |
| 3BR/2BA | 1200 sqft | $180K – $240K | $150 – $200 | $240K – $360K | $200 – $300 |
The ranges are based on:
- Low-End Construction: $150 to $200 per square foot.
- Mid-Range Construction: $200 to $300 per square foot.
The cost of building a detached ADU will be most heavily impacted by the size of the unit, the number of units you are building, site conditions (e.g., grading, utility locations), and local permitting requirements (e.g., building plan check and permitting fees, school fees). Vertical build costs will be affected by final finishes; our pricing always includes a standard level of finish, including appliances and fixtures.
Acknowledging the recent surge in build costs is crucial, which can often lead to sticker shock for many homeowners. The Florida Construction Cost Index (FCCI) increased 15% to 20% from January 2021 to January 2024. This hike means that an ADU that cost around $300,000 to build in January 2021 would now require an investment of approximately $410,000 in 2024.
As of June 2024, our cost estimates for ADUs in Florida are adjusted to reflect these changes. We aim to give you a realistic understanding of the expenses involved rather than leaving you with unexpected costs later. You can find more detailed information on our pricing approach and price guarantee. Being well-informed can help you plan effectively for your ADU project.
