What is an ADU in NYC? Why should you care? Read on to learn more.

For decades, the city was known as the City of No when it came to creative housing ideas.

Basements? Often illegal.
Backyard cottages? Forget about it.

That changed in late 2024, when the City of Yes housing plan was adopted, officially legalizing ADUs across most of New York City.

How much does it cost to build an ADU? We break down the costs.

ADUs In NYC Explained: How Accessory Dwelling Units Could Change The Housing Landscape in New York

Getting your Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) approved in New York City involves multiple layers of review from zoning and permits to inspections and final occupancy certification. Understanding the ADU approval process can save you time, money, and stress.

Are you considering constructing an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in your New York City yard, basement, or attic?

The million-dollar question comes next - can you rent it out?

ADUs (accessory dwelling units) are no longer just a West Coast fantasy.

In 2025, they’ve become a practical, legal, and increasingly popular way for New Yorkers to solve real problems, providing space for aging loved ones, supporting adult children, generating rental income, or simply carving out a little privacy in an overcrowded home.

When you start planning an ADU, you might wonder - how will this pay off in the long run? There are several factors to consider when deciding if a new accessory dwelling unit will be worth your time.

Are you looking to build an ADU in New York City? Here’s how to plan your budget so no hidden surprises jump out along the way.

After years of zoning restrictions and red tape, detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - yes, actual standalone homes in your backyard - are now legally possible in many parts of New York City.

You’ve done the math. You’ve checked the zoning. You’ve even chosen the tile for the bathroom in your future ADU.

There’s only one small issue - you don’t have the funds in your checking account to make your dream a reality.

Here are several ways you can fund your Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in NYC

Living in New York City is an amazing experience, but often comes with sacrificing space.

If you’re lucky enough to have a small yard, you’ve probably wondered: Can I build something here?

If you’re thinking about building or renovating an ADU in the city, here’s what’s trending and perfectly suited for New York’s bold, space-savvy lifestyle.

There’s an ongoing housing crisis in New York City. Rents are astronomical. Families are moving in together. People are leaving.

But what if the answer has been right in front of us all along?

Enter Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - small, independent living spaces that can help ease the city’s housing crunch in a more human, neighborhood-friendly way.

After decades of classifying ADUs and backyard cottages as unlawful the city has turned the tide. What does this mean moving forward?

If you’re a homeowner, renter, or simply care about the future of housing in New York, read on to learn more about how ADU’s are affecting NYC.

Let’s look at what to expect in 2025 and beyond.

This marks an exciting new phase for NYC housing. As the city begins to adapt, we can look to other states’ programs to see what’s worked well — and what’s served as a learning lesson.

What is an ADU in NYC? Learn more about the future of real estate in the city.