Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction in Denver, CO — Costs $73,590 to $429,275
What does accessory dwelling unit (adu) construction cost in Denver? Average $183,975, ranging $73,590–$429,275. Labor runs $38.49/hr locally — 23% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.
Denver, CO Market
+23% vs nationalLabor Rate
$38.49/hr
Material Index
117
Avg Permit Cost
$2,288
Median Home Price
$482,996
As one of the largest metros in Colorado, Denver has a competitive contractor market with hundreds of licensed professionals. This typically gives homeowners more leverage on pricing, though high demand for renovations can offset that advantage. At 23% above the national average, Denver is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. The median home in Denver is valued at $482,996, putting this project at about 38.1% of home value — a moderate investment with a projected 80% ROI.
Low Estimate
$73,590
National: $60,000
Mid-Range
$183,975
National: $150,000
High End
$429,275
National: $350,000
Per Sq Ft
$307
National: $250
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction Cost Calculator for Denver
Adjusted for Denver's labor rate ($38.49/hr) and material costs (index 117).
Mid-grade materials, good quality fixtures, standard options.
Estimated Total in Denver
$183,975
Based on 200 sq ft at mid quality, adjusted for Denver market rates.
Local Cost Breakdown
At Denver's average rate of $38.49/hr (28% above national avg)
Material cost index 117 (17% above national baseline of 100)
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction vs. Home Value in Denver
| Metric | Denver | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction (Mid-Range) | $183,975 | $150,000 |
| Median Home Price | $482,996 | $350,000 |
| Project as % of Home Value | 38.1% | 42.9% |
| Estimated ROI | 80% | 80% |
| Median Household Income | $76,237 | $75,000 |
What Affects the Price in Denver
- 1Local labor rates ($38.49/hr in Denver)
- 2Material cost index (117 vs national 100)
- 3Attached vs detached
- 4Size and bedroom count
- 5Kitchen and bath quality
- 6Local ADU regulations
Popular Upgrades
- Full kitchen
- Separate entrance
- Solar panels for energy independence
Other Projects in Denver, CO
Second Story Addition
$245,300
Room Addition
$110,385
Swimming Pool Installation
$78,988
Garage Addition
$67,458
Home Addition
$97,668
Inground Swimming Pool
$78,621
Attic Conversion
$67,768
Swimming Pool Construction
$61,608
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction in Other Colorado Cities
Planning a Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction in Denver
Building permits are typically required for a accessory dwelling unit (adu) construction in Denver. The average permit fee in this area is $2,288, though costs vary based on project scope. Permit fees in this market are above average — factor them into your total budget. Plan for 6-18 months from start to finish.
A accessory dwelling unit (adu) construction is a complex project best left to licensed professionals. In Denver, skilled contractors charge an average of $38.49/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.
For the median Denver household earning $76,237/year, this project at $183,975 represents a significant investment. Consider financing options or phasing the work to spread costs over time.
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction — National Guide
See the full national cost guide with DIY tips, cost factors, and ROI analysis.
All Construction Costs in Denver
View labor rates, material costs, and project estimates for Denver, CO.
Explore All Project Cost Guides
Compare costs across 120+ home improvement projects in 3,636 cities nationwide.
View All Project Costs