Can You Build an ADU in Nashville?
ADU rules in Nashville are set by local zoning in Tennessee. Many Tennessee cities allow ADUs — here's what to check, plus typical costs ($139,500–$228,500 for a 700 sq ft detached unit).
Construction in Nashville runs about 3% above the Tennessee average, so budget toward the higher end of these ranges.
Detached ADU (700 sq ft)
$139,500–$228,500
Garage conversion (400 sq ft)
$43,500–$80,000
Statewide protection
Local rules
What applies in Nashville
We do not yet publish a verified Nashville ordinance summary. Use this page for a planning-level cost estimate, then check Nashville's planning or building department for rules that apply to your parcel.
Estimate your Nashville ADU cost
Your property
ADU typeEstimated cost in Tennessee
$139,500 – $228,500
≈ $199–$326/sq ft turnkey · midpoint $184,000
- $125,100
- Construction
- $33,100
- Design & permits
- $25,800
- Site work
- iSize set locally. This state leaves ADU size limits to your city — typical caps run 600–1,200 sq ft. Check your local code.
- iParking. Set by local ordinance — commonly 1 space per ADU unless near transit.
- iOwner-occupancy varies. Owner-occupancy rules are set locally in this state.
- ✓Lot has room. A 700 sq ft ADU uses about 12% of your 6,000 sq ft lot — comfortably within typical coverage limits.
Rule basis: Local zoning governs — rules vary by city/county
If you rent it out
$950–$1,525
est. rent/mo
8.2%
gross yield
13.2 yrs
payback
~$13,950/yr after a 7% vacancy allowance, before financing & maintenance.
Financed over 20 yrs at 7.5%, the build is about $1,482/mo — vs ~$1,250/mo in estimated rent.
Estimates are for planning only and are based on regional construction-cost indices and published statewide ADU statutes. Local ordinances, lot conditions and contractor pricing vary — always confirm with your city planning department and a licensed contractor.
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Other Tennessee cities
Estimates are for planning only and are based on regional construction-cost indices and published statewide ADU statutes. Local ordinances, lot conditions and contractor pricing vary — always confirm with your city planning department and a licensed contractor.