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California ADU Cost: Clear, Fixed Pricing

Q: How are Abodu payments structured?

The cost is split into a Unit Contract and a Site Work Contract, paid in stages from contract signing through factory manufacturing, site prep, and final Certificate of Occupancy. A $500 on-site assessment starts the process.

An ADU in California costs between $278,800 and $498,500 with Abodu, depending on the model you choose. Your price is fixed before construction starts, so you know your number up front with no surprises. It covers your complete unit, pre-approved plans, permit services, foundation, delivery, and installation. Most projects reach Certificate of Occupancy in under six months. Below you'll find base prices, average all-in pricing by model, and exactly what is and isn't included.

What's included in the base price?

Includes

Dedicated Project Manager
Complete Abodu unit
Permit services
Pre-approved plans
Unit delivery and installation
Foundation
Standard utility connections

Doesn't Include

Utility trenching beyond 50 ft
Craning beyond 100 ft
Building or structure demolition
Tree removal
Unique site engineering
Sales tax and permit fees

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What do customers pay on average?

Adding upgrades will increase the price of your Abodu. So will challenging site conditions, like sloped or very deep lots. Curious how much our customers pay? Find our average prices below.

Permit fees and taxes start around $7,000 but can vary drastically by city.

What payments are due, and when?

The cost of your Abodu is split into two parts: Unit Contract (for your Abodu) and Site Work Contract (to get your backyard into shape). See below for when these payments are usually due.

1
On-Site Assessment
$500 Non-Refundable Fee
Your Project Manager will work with you to figure out where to install your Abodu. They'll determine how to connect utilities and the overall installation plan.
2
Contract Signing
10% of Unit Contract
We're ready to start! At this stage you've reviewed your all-in contract and signed it.
3
Approx. 1 month later
Unit Manufacturing Begins
40% of Unit Contract
Your Abodu is manufactured in the factory. Your Project Manager will keep track of the build, work through permits, and coordinate with the city to ensure minimal disruption to your life.
4
Approx. 4 months later
Unit Manufacturing Completed
The last payment of your Unit Contract (50%)
Your Abodu is finished with factory manufacturing. We'll wrap it and prepare it for delivery.
5
Approx. 2 weeks later
Ready for Installation
50% of Site Work Contract
Your backyard has been prepped for your Abodu. This includes trenching, foundation, and other site work.
6
Approx. 2 weeks later
Project Completion
The last payment of your Site Work Contract (50%)
Abodu has received the Certificate of Occupancy (CO) from your city. You’ve also had your final walkthrough and inspection. Congratulations! Your Abodu is yours, ready to give for generations to come.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an ADU cost in California?

With Abodu, base prices start at $278,800 for a 340 sqft studio and run to $439,000 for a 540 sqft one-bedroom. Average all-in prices, including typical upgrades, range from about $300,500 to $498,500. Permit fees and taxes start around $7,000 and vary by city.

What's included in the base price?

Every base price includes a dedicated project manager, the complete Abodu unit, permit services, pre-approved plans, foundation, standard utility connections, and unit delivery and installation.

What's not included?

The base price does not cover utility trenching beyond 50 feet, craning beyond 100 feet, building or structure demolition, tree removal, unique site engineering, or sales tax and permit fees.

How much are ADU permit fees in California?

Permit fees and taxes start around $7,000, but they vary widely by city. Contact us for an exact figure for your address.

How are payments structured?

Your cost is split into a Unit Contract and a Site Work Contract, paid in stages from contract signing through factory manufacturing, site prep, and final Certificate of Occupancy. A $500 on-site assessment starts the process.