REMODELING
Garage Conversion Cost: Turn It Into Living Space
Estimate garage-to-living-space conversion cost — with the free remodeling calculator.
Converting a garage into living space is the fastest way to add square footage without building an addition. Costs range wildly — from a simple office to a full accessory dwelling unit (ADU).
THE SHORT ANSWER
The short answer
Garage conversion runs $30–$100 per sq ft for a basic living space, $100–$250+ for a full ADU with kitchen and bath. A one-car garage (240 sq ft) runs $7,000–$25,000 basic; two-car (400 sq ft) $12,000–$45,000.
What it costs
A basic conversion (insulation, drywall, flooring, electrical) runs $6,000–$18,000 for one car. Adding a bathroom adds $8,000–$15,000. A kitchenette adds $5,000–$12,000. Permits and fees add $1,000–$3,000.
- Basic one-car: $7,000–$25,000
- With bathroom: add $8,000–$15,000
- With kitchenette: add $5,000–$12,000
- Per sq ft: $30–$100 basic, $100–$250+ ADU
The hidden requirements
Local codes may require a second egress window, insulation upgrades, electrical panel capacity and a setback review. An ADU needs separate utility metering or sub-metering in many jurisdictions.
Try the remodeling calculator
Enter your labor, materials and fixtures to rough out the project budget.