The Highlands ADU Cost & Builders — 2026
Detached The Highlands ADU builds run $207K–$517K all-in ($460–$633/sq ft) once permits, SDC, utility hookups, and finishes are stacked. Compare costs, zoning, rental income, and pull 3 verified quotes below.
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The Highlands ADU Costs by Build Type
Pricing is derived from the Denver city average adjusted for The Highlands's premium cost tier (1.15× baseline).
| Build type | 2026 cost range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Detached new build | $207K–$517K | Stand-alone backyard unit, 600–1,000 sq ft |
| Attached addition | $176K–$440K | Bumped off existing structure |
| Garage conversion | $93K–$233K | Existing shell reused |
| Basement / interior | $114K–$285K | Where lot type permits |
The Highlands ADU Rental Income (2026)
Average rents tracked from Denver MLS, Zillow, and local rental data. ADUs typically command a 5–15% premium over comparable units due to newer construction.
| Unit type | Monthly rent | Annual gross |
|---|---|---|
| 1 bedroom | $1,900–$2,500 | $23K–$30K/yr |
| 2 bedroom | $2,500–$3,300 | $30K–$40K/yr |
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The Highlands Zoning, HOA & Historic Notes
- Community plan / overlay
- Potter Highlands + Wolff Place Historic Districts
- Permit considerations
- Potter Highlands and Wolff Place historic districts add Landmark Preservation review. Strong demand for detached ADUs in alley-accessed lots.
- HOA situation
- Highlands is mostly HOA-free; CC&Rs on older subdivisions are largely unenforceable post-HB 24-1152.
- Historic district
- Portions of The Highlands fall within a historic district. Contributing structures require design review and material/massing approval. Plan an extra 4–10 weeks of permitting time and engage a designer familiar with the local landmark commission.
Always pull a property profile on your specific lot before designing — setbacks, height limits, and FAR can change parcel-by-parcel inside The Highlands.
The Highlands ADU FAQs
How much does an ADU cost in The Highlands, Denver?
The Highlands ADUs typically run $207K–$517K all-in for a 600–1,000 sq ft detached unit in 2026. Costs trend above the Denver city average due to higher land values and finish expectations. Per square foot pricing is typically $400–$550.
Are there special permits or overlays for ADUs in The Highlands?
Potter Highlands and Wolff Place historic districts add Landmark Preservation review. Strong demand for detached ADUs in alley-accessed lots. Always pull a property profile before designing — The Highlands's Potter Highlands + Wolff Place Historic Districts can change setback and height requirements lot-by-lot.
What can I rent a The Highlands ADU for?
As of 2026, The Highlands commands roughly $1,900–$2,500 for a 1-bedroom ADU and $2,500–$3,300 for a 2-bedroom. Rents lean higher with off-street parking, in-unit laundry, and walkability to transit or commercial corridors.
Are HOAs or historic districts an obstacle in The Highlands?
Highlands is mostly HOA-free; CC&Rs on older subdivisions are largely unenforceable post-HB 24-1152. Historic district overlays in this neighborhood add design review — budget an extra 4–10 weeks and plan for material/massing constraints on contributing structures.
How do I get a quote from a verified The Highlands ADU builder?
Submit your lot details using the quote form on this page. We'll match you with up to 3 The Highlands-area builders who have completed projects within 5 miles. There's no cost or obligation, and quotes typically arrive within 48 hours.
Related Denver ADU Resources
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