ADUs In NYC Explained: How Accessory Dwelling Units Could Change The Housing Landscape in New York
ADUs are popping up across the country, and now NYC has joined the movement. If implemented thoughtfully, Accessory Dwelling Units could open the door to a more affordable and flexible housing future for the five boroughs.
Let’s take a look at exactly what ADUs are, why they are important, and how they might quietly revolutionize life in the city that never sleeps.
What Is an ADU — And Why Should You Care?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a separate, independent residence located on the same lot as an existing primary residence.
Examples include:
Self-contained legal basement apartments with a kitchen and bathroom
Garage studios
A tiny house or backyard “granny flat”
A detached unit in a converted attic
In a city where the median rent for a one-bedroom is over $4,000 and affordable housing waitlists are years long, ADUs provide more housing - without more towers.
Many New Yorkers are relocating because they can’t afford to stay. The cost of living continues to rise, and some families are squeezing into small apartments to make it work.
Who Can Build an ADU in NYC?
Many New Yorkers have the opportunity to add an ADU.
You may qualify if you have:
A detached or semi-detached single- or two-family home
A low or medium density zoned property (R3–R5, typically in the outer boroughs), most often a rowhouse or brownstone
Quick Breakdown by Borough
Brooklyn: Eligible in neighborhoods with one- and two-family homes - particularly in areas like Bay Ridge, Bensonhurst, Dyker Heights, and parts of East New York.
Queens: Large portions of Queens are ideal for ADUs, especially in areas with detached or semi-detached homes such as Flushing, Bayside, Forest Hills, and Jamaica.
The Bronx: Many residential neighborhoods like Throgs Neck, Riverdale, and Pelham Bay include properties that fit ADU zoning criteria.
Staten Island: Most of the island consists of single-family homes, making it one of the most ADU-friendly boroughs in NYC.
Manhattan: ADUs generally do not apply here due to the density of multi-unit and high-rise buildings. Co-ops, condos, and apartments are not eligible.
So, if you own a one- or two-family property in Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, or Staten Island, you could be eligible to add an ADU and help shape the city’s future of flexible, affordable housing.
Why Isn’t Everyone Building ADUs Yet?
Like any big idea, ADUs come with a few hurdles.
Upfront Costs: Building an ADU can run $75K–$200K, but new grants and low-interest financing options are making it more attainable each year.
Permitting: NYC’s approval process can be slow, yet the city is already testing streamlined ADU pathways to speed things up.
ADUs are becoming an option for more than just high-income homeowners. Momentum is here - and as NYC continues to refine its ADU programs, more homeowners will be able to turn underused space into opportunity.
Final Thoughts
An ADU can be a great way to add extra income, boost your property value, and bring your own design ideas to life.
Beyond the financial perks, it’s a chance to reimagine how space works for you, whether that means housing a family, creating a private studio, or contributing to a more livable, connected New York City.