Short answer. Converting a standard 2-car garage (400 sq ft) into a permitted bedroom in Los Angeles runs $45,000 to $90,000 without a bathroom. Add $30,000 to $50,000 for an attached bathroom. Permits, insulation, windows, electrical, and HVAC are required for habitable conversion.
2026 pricing by scope
| Scope (400 sq ft garage) | Cost | What is included |
|---|---|---|
| Bedroom with closet, no bath | $45,000 to $90,000 | Insulation, drywall, flooring, 2 windows, closet, electrical, HVAC tie-in. |
| Bedroom with attached bath | $75,000 to $130,000 | Above plus full bathroom with shower, vanity, toilet, plumbing rough-in. |
| Bedroom suite with bath and entry | $95,000 to $160,000 | Above plus dedicated exterior entry. Approaches ADU functionality without a kitchen. |
What code requires
- Minimum ceiling height (7 feet for habitable space).
- Two means of egress (window or door at code-compliant size for emergency egress).
- Insulation per Title 24 (R-13 to R-21 in walls, R-30 in roof).
- Heating and cooling source (HVAC tie-in or mini-split).
- Electrical receptacle spacing per code.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
- Moisture barrier and proper foundation conditions.
- Parking replacement (depends on jurisdiction, often waived under SB 9 or ADU laws).
What is included in a permitted conversion
- Architect or designer drawings.
- Structural engineer review (when needed).
- Permit submission to LADBS.
- Demo of garage door (replaced with framed wall, window, or fixed glass).
- Foundation moisture check and remediation if needed.
- Framing for new walls, ceiling, and openings.
- Insulation.
- Windows and exterior doors.
- HVAC integration.
- Electrical rough and finish.
- Plumbing rough and finish (if bathroom added).
- Drywall, paint, flooring, and trim.
- Final inspection.
Bedroom vs ADU decision
Bedroom conversion gives you a private guest room or extra household bedroom at lower cost. Garage ADU gives you an income-producing rental unit at 20 to 35 percent more cost. The decision depends on intended use, household composition, and how strong the rental market is in your area.
For the ADU comparison, read garage conversion ADU cost. For full-home additions, see home addition cost Los Angeles. For services, see our garage conversion page.
