Los Angeles Remodeling Costs 2026

Last updated: September 8, 2026

Remodeling and construction costs in Los Angeles move within a wide band because the same square footage can be finished with builder-grade materials or estate-level stone and cabinetry — and because permitting scope (structural, electrical panel, plumbing relocation) varies project to project even within the same room type. The ranges below reflect what Shulmen Construction LA (CSLB #1077837) actually sees across current Los Angeles projects in 2026, not national averages. Every number here is the same figure used anywhere else on this site — if a service page or FAQ answer cites a cost, it traces back to this table.

What drives the range in each category

Kitchen remodel — $35,000–$170,000

The widest swing in a kitchen budget comes from cabinetry and stone. Semi-custom cabinetry with quartz counters sits toward the lower half of the range; full custom cabinetry with imported stone, a full layout change, and an appliance package built around professional-grade equipment pushes a project into estate-level territory. Moving plumbing or gas lines, or opening a load-bearing wall, adds engineering and permitting time on top of the build itself.

Bathroom remodel — $25,000–$85,000

A secondary bath refresh with a standard-size shower and vanity lands at the low end; a primary suite with a freestanding soaking tub, a large-format tile shower, imported marble, heated flooring, and custom vanities runs toward the top. Reconfiguring the footprint or relocating plumbing fixtures adds cost beyond a like-for-like finish swap.

Detached ADU — $250,000–$450,000

Detached ADU cost per square foot depends heavily on foundation type, utility connections (new sewer lateral, separate electrical service), and finish level. A smaller, simpler unit with standard finishes sits near $400/sq ft; a larger unit with a full kitchen, upgraded systems, and higher-end finishes moves toward $650/sq ft. Site access and grading also factor in on lots that need retaining work.

Garage-conversion ADU — $130,000–$220,000

Converting an existing garage structure avoids new foundation and framing costs, which is why this option runs well below a detached new-build ADU. The remaining variability comes from how much of the existing structure needs upgrading — insulation, electrical panel capacity, plumbing runs to a new kitchen and bath — and finish level.

Room addition — $250–$550/sq ft

A single-story addition that ties into existing foundation and roofline sits at the lower end. A second-story addition requires new structural engineering to carry the added load down through the existing home — moment frames, foundation reinforcement — which is the main reason second-story work runs toward the top of the range.

Whole-home remodeling — $150–$400/sq ft

This category covers the broadest scope, from a cosmetic refresh across every room to a full structural and MEP overhaul behind existing walls. Projects that keep the existing structural envelope and update systems and finishes land toward the lower end; projects that involve significant structural rework, a full electrical and plumbing replacement, or reconfigured floor plans move toward the top.

Water damage restoration & reconstruction — estimated by scope

Water damage is estimated from the scope, not from a single price per square foot. The source and cleanliness of the water, the affected materials, hidden damage, access, drying progress, contents handling, and the amount of reconstruction all matter, and emergency work, the rebuild, and any improvements you choose are scoped separately. Drying and reconstruction run on different timelines. See Water Damage Restoration & Reconstruction.

For a full breakdown of what's included at each price point, see the individual service pages linked in the table above, or read the Los Angeles Building Permits Guide for how permitting timelines layer on top of these construction timelines.