Build an ADU in San Mateo
Ready to build your ADU in San Mateo? Connect with 3 builders and get started today. Average rent: $3,324/month.
3
Contractors
$3K
Average Rent /mo
$1.6M
Avg Home Value
Featured Builders
ADU builders serving San Mateo
Top Investment Neighborhoods
Highest rental yields in San Mateo by ZIP Code
ZIP 94402
Highest Return
ZIP 94403
ZIP 94401
Top ZIP Codes by Rent in San Mateo
Neighborhoods with the highest average rental rates
94402
94403
94401
San Mateo Real Estate Market
Easy to understand market data to help you make informed ADU investment decisions.
Based on aggregated market data from multiple housing platforms and public records
Average Rent
Monthly rental price
$3K
Average Home Value
Property valuation
$1.6M
Market Analysis
San Mateo shows strong rent growth of 5.4% over the past 12 months. Home values have changed by 0.1%, making ADU investment a strategic choice for homeowners.
Projected Property Value
Current market analysis for San Mateo indicates a -0.2% increase in property values over the next 12 months.
Similar Cities to San Mateo
Cities with similar market characteristics for comparison
California State ADU Standards
These are the guaranteed rights for homeowners in San Mateo under California State Law. Local agencies cannot enforce stricter standards than these baselines.
State law prohibits local agencies from setting limits below 850 sq. ft. (1 bd) or 1,000 sq. ft. (2 bd). Generally, up to 1,200 sq. ft. is allowed subject to setbacks.
Local agencies cannot require rear or side setbacks of more than 4 feet.
Minimum allowed height limit. Some areas allow up to 18-25ft depending on proximity to transit or main house.
No parking required if ADU is within 1/2 mile of public transit, historic district, or part of existing home footprint.
State law currently prohibits owner-occupancy requirements for ADUs permitted between 2020 and 2025.
Development impact fees are waived for ADUs smaller than 750 sq. ft. For larger units, fees must be proportional.
* While these state laws provide a baseline, always verify specific local overlay zones or fire safety regulations with the San Mateo planning department.
Building ADUs in San Mateo
Ready to build your ADU in San Mateo? Our platform connects you with 3 builders ready to help you start your project.
With strong rental market conditions and +5.4%% growth over the past year, now is the perfect time to invest in an ADU in San Mateo.
Frequently Asked Questions about ADUs in San Mateo
Common questions from local homeowners
ADU construction costs in San Mateo typically range from $250-$400 per square foot for standard construction. For a 500 sq ft unit, this translates to $125,000-$200,000. Garage conversions are usually more affordable, often costing 30-50% less than new detached construction.
ROI Intelligence
Investment insights for San Mateo
Market Rent
$3K/mo
Est. Annual Income
$38K
Est. ROI
17.0%
Monthly Cash
$3K
Value Growth (12m)
-0.1%
*Estimates based on average ADU size (800 sqft) and construction costs ($200K). Actual results may vary. Use calculator for personalized analysis.