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How Much Does an ADU Cost in Bend, Oregon in 2026?

If you’re a homeowner in Bend, Redmond or anywhere in Central Oregon and you’ve been asking, “How much will building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) cost me?”, you’re in the right place. As experts in design-build and custom construction, Cascade Lakes Design breaks down the real numbers, what drives cost, recent local trends, and how to budget smart for your ADU.


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What is an ADU – and why build one in Bend/Redmond?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary, smaller dwelling on the same lot as your main home—think a backyard cottage, detached guest house, apartment over a garage, or an attached unit. In Bend and Central Oregon, ADUs are becoming increasingly popular for:

  • Hosting extended family

  • Generating rental income

  • Increasing property value

  • Downsizing while staying on your lotWith zoning changes and city programs, now’s an opportune moment to build. For example, the City of Bend’s ADU Resource Hub confirms homeowners may build an ADU up to 800 sq ft under current rules.


Typical Cost Ranges for ADUs in the Bend Area (2026)

While each project is unique, here’s a realistic range based on local data and construction-market trends:

  • According to the Bend Chamber’s ADU Guide, ADU construction costs in Bend can range from $80,000 to $400,000, depending on size, finishes, and lot conditions.


  • A local article estimated an 800 sq ft ADU might cost $125,000 to $250,000 in Bend.


  • National data shows per-square-foot cost between $150-$300+ on average, and depending on type and finish can go much higher.



What that means for you in Bend/Redmond in 2026:

  • A basic attached or interior conversion ADU (600-800 sq ft) might fall in the $140,000-$250,000 range.

  • A detached, stand-alone cottage with premium finishes and separate utilities could run $250,000-$400,000+.

  • Simpler conversions (garage to ADU, smaller footprint) may cost $100,000-$150,000 assuming fewer structural changes and good site conditions.


Key Cost Drivers to Budget For

Here’s what really affects how much your Bend/Redmond ADU build will cost:

  1. Size & Type of ADU

    • Detached units require their own foundation, roof, utilities, etc ⇒ higher cost.

    • Attached or interior units often save on some infrastructure.

    • Example: In Portland metro, a detached ADU often runs $200-$400 per sq ft.

  2. Site Conditions & Lot Prep

    • Is your lot flat, already serviced with utilities, good drainage?

    • If you need major excavation, retaining walls, or off-grid utilities, cost goes up.

    • In Bend, additional fees (system development charges, permit increases) are pushing costs higher.

  3. Finishes and Quality

    • Premium materials (custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, smart home features) add significantly.

    • Simpler finishes help keep budget in check.

  4. Permits, Fees, and Infrastructure

    • City of Bend requires permit fees + SDCs for new units.

    • The ‘Permit Centre’ process, building code compliance and plan review add time and cost.

  5. Construction Market Conditions

    • Labor and material inflation affects cost every year.

    • In a growing market like Central Oregon, costs may trend higher than national averages.


How to Estimate Your ADU Budget in Bend/Redmond

Here’s how to approach creating a realistic budget for your ADU with Cascade Lakes Design:

  • Step 1: Define size and type — decide how many square feet, whether detached or attached, level of finish.

  • Step 2: Use per-square-foot baseline — for Bend area in 2026, you might use $180-$300 per sq ft as a working baseline for standard finishes.

  • Step 3: Add lot/site and infrastructure costs — utilities extension, foundation work, grading, landscaping.

  • Step 4: Include permit & fee buffer — Plan for increases in fees or SDCs.

  • Step 5: Decide on finish upgrades — set aside additional budget if you want high end finishes, smart features, custom design elements.

  • Step 6: Create contingency — always include 5-10% contingency for unknowns.


Case Study: A Sample ADU in Bend

Let’s say you’re building a 700 sq ft detached ADU in Bend:

  • Base build: 700 sq ft × $220 / sq ft = $154,000

  • Lot prep/utility extension: + $25,000

  • Permit/SDC fees: + $10,000

  • Upgraded finishes: + $30,000Estimated total: ~$219,000

As local examples suggest, ADU projects in Bend of ~567 sq ft completed under a pre-approved design ran at ~$200,000.


Return on Investment & Value for Homeowners

  • ADUs in Bend are not just a cost—they can add value: rental income potential, increased lot utilization, appeal to future buyers.

  • The local housing market in Central Oregon makes ADUs an increasingly strategic investment.

  • More favorable zoning and streamlined processes may further enhance ROI. The Bulletin

Final Thoughts – What to Know as You Move Forward

  • Budget realistically: for Bend/Redmond expect $150k-$300k+ for standard ADUs in 2026.

  • Choose a local design-build partner (like Cascade Lakes Design) who knows Bend code, permitting, and local construction conditions.

  • Plan well: design, site evaluation, utility services, finishes—all drive cost.

  • Start early with permits and understand your land’s feasibility.

  • Maintain a contingency and regular communication with your builder to avoid surprises.


Ready to Explore Your ADU in Central Oregon?

If you’re ready to explore building an ADU in Bend, Redmond or anywhere in Central Oregon, we’d love to help. At Cascade Lakes Design we specialize in design-build ADUs, custom home construction and remodels – with local knowledge, full service and transparent pricing.Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your lot, options and budget.

 
 
 

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