Second Story Addition in Los Angeles, CA — Costs $133,227 to $832,667
What does second story addition cost in Los Angeles? Average $333,067, ranging $133,227–$832,667. Labor runs $55.82/hr locally — 67% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.
Los Angeles, CA Market
+67% vs nationalLabor Rate
$55.82/hr
Material Index
147
Avg Permit Cost
$2,299
Median Home Price
$852,205
As one of the largest metros in California, Los Angeles 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 67% above the national average, Los Angeles is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. With a median home price of $852,205, this second story addition represents just 39.1% of typical home value — a relatively small investment that can significantly boost curb appeal or functionality.
Low Estimate
$133,227
National: $80,000
Mid-Range
$333,067
National: $200,000
High End
$832,667
National: $500,000
Per Sq Ft
$500
National: $300
Second Story Addition Cost Calculator for Los Angeles
Adjusted for Los Angeles's labor rate ($55.82/hr) and material costs (index 147).
Mid-grade materials, good quality fixtures, standard options.
Estimated Total in Los Angeles
$333,067
Based on 200 sq ft at mid quality, adjusted for Los Angeles market rates.
Local Cost Breakdown
At Los Angeles's average rate of $55.82/hr (86% above national avg)
Material cost index 147 (47% above national baseline of 100)
Second Story Addition vs. Home Value in Los Angeles
| Metric | Los Angeles | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Second Story Addition (Mid-Range) | $333,067 | $200,000 |
| Median Home Price | $852,205 | $350,000 |
| Project as % of Home Value | 39.1% | 57.1% |
| Estimated ROI | 60% | 60% |
| Median Household Income | $129,114 | $75,000 |
What Affects the Price in Los Angeles
- 1Local labor rates ($55.82/hr in Los Angeles)
- 2Material cost index (147 vs national 100)
- 3Total square footage added
- 4Structural reinforcement of first floor
- 5Staircase addition
- 6Roof removal and replacement
Popular Upgrades
- Master suite
- Additional bedrooms
- Jack-and-Jill bathroom
Other Projects in Los Angeles, CA
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction
$249,800
Room Addition
$149,880
Swimming Pool Installation
$105,707
Garage Addition
$91,593
Home Addition
$131,664
Inground Swimming Pool
$104,438
Attic Conversion
$92,668
Swimming Pool Construction
$84,243
Second Story Addition in Other California Cities
Planning a Second Story Addition in Los Angeles
Building permits are typically required for a second story addition in Los Angeles. The average permit fee in this area is $2,299, though costs vary based on project scope. Permit fees in this market are above average — factor them into your total budget. Plan for 4-8 months from start to finish.
A second story addition is a complex project best left to licensed professionals. In Los Angeles, skilled contractors charge an average of $55.82/hr, and the specialized nature of this work means cutting corners on labor can lead to costly rework.
With a median household income of $129,114, many Los Angeles residents can budget for this project through savings. The mid-range cost of $333,067 represents 258% of the typical household's annual income.
Second Story Addition — National Guide
See the full national cost guide with DIY tips, cost factors, and ROI analysis.
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