Studio ADU vs. One-Bedroom: Which is Right for You?

Adding an ADU to your property is a big move—and one that can seriously boost your home’s value, rental income, and flexibility. But when it comes time to decide on the layout, most homeowners run into the same question: Do I go with a studio ADU or a one-bedroom?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on how you’re planning to use the space, how much room you have to build, and what kind of lifestyle you’re designing for—yours or someone else’s. And of course, the potential return on investment doesn’t hurt to consider either.

If you’re trying to figure out what’s best for your lot and your goals, you’re in the right place. Since 2017, NEO Builders and Design—a trusted general contractor in Los Angeles— has helped homeowners design, permit, and build custom ADUs, especially garage conversions and detached units. We’ll help you figure out what works best for your space and lifestyle. Book a free ADU consultation to chat about your options.

What Is a Studio ADU?

Layout and Features

A studio ADU is a single-room layout where the kitchen, living, and sleeping areas all share one open space. The bathroom, of course, is separate—but everything else flows together. This setup works especially well if you want a smaller, low-maintenance unit that still feels functional and livable. 

Common Square Footage and Lot Requirements

Most studio ADUs land somewhere between 300 and 500 square feet. They’re a smart option if you’re tight on lot space or want to preserve your yard. While California building code allows efficiency units as small as 150 square feet, most ADUs are built at 220 square feet or larger to meet local habitability requirements. For long-term use, 400+ square feet tends to offer a more comfortable living experience. Detached units under 800 sq ft also qualify for streamlined permitting in many Los Angeles neighborhoods, making them easier and faster to approve—especially if you’re doing a garage conversion.

Best Uses for Studio ADUs

This type of ADU is great as a guest house, home office, or a private space for your college-age kid or in-laws. It’s also a smart option for long-term rentals, especially for single tenants or professionals looking for an independent space. If you’re browsing ADU studio plans, think about who will be using it—and how often. The open layout works especially well when you don’t need separate zones for sleeping and entertaining. And if you’re looking for small ADU ideas, this is the simplest and most budget-friendly place to start.

What Is a One-Bedroom ADU?

How It Differs from a Studio ADU

The main difference is how the space is divided. A one bedroom ADU has a separate, enclosed sleeping area with its own walls and door—plus a full kitchen, bathroom, and living area. That separation makes it feel more like a traditional apartment and is especially appealing to long-term renters or couples who want a bit of privacy. A studio ADU, on the other hand, keeps the sleeping, cooking, and living areas all in one open space. While it offers less privacy, it can feel more open and flexible—especially if you’re working with a smaller footprint. With no interior walls to work around, you have more freedom to create a layout that fits your lifestyle.

Benefits of a Separate Bedroom

If someone’s living in the unit full-time—a renter, relative, or even yourself—it’s nice to have separate spaces to cook, lounge, and sleep. That’s where a one-bedroom layout really shines. And from a market perspective, more renters tend to prefer a true one-bedroom setup over a studio, especially in LA.

Typical Size, Design, and Layout Options

One bedroom ADU floor plans usually fall in the 450–800 square foot range. There’s a lot you can do within that footprint: a full-size kitchen, comfortable living space, and a bedroom that fits a queen bed without feeling cramped. These can also be designed as an above-garage unit to preserve parking while still adding livable space.

Studio ADU vs. One-Bedroom ADU: Cost, Value, and ROI

Construction and Permitting Differences

A studio ADU is generally quicker and cheaper to build, but not by much. 

Both a studio ADU and a one-bedroom ADU are going to require the same essential features like a kitchen and a bathroom. These are considered “high cost square footage” because these spaces require adequate plumbing and electrical coordination regardless of their size. While a studio may need fewer interior walls, the savings are minimal, as adding walls is generally a relatively low-cost part of the build.

That said, both studio and one-bedroom units typically qualify for streamlined permitting in Los Angeles as long as they’re under 800 square feet and meet zoning requirements. California state law allows these units by-right, meaning you don’t need a public hearing or special review, which can significantly cut down on delays. If you’re converting a garage, you may also avoid certain fees and parking requirements, which makes either option even more appealing for homeowners.

Rental Income Potential in High-Demand Areas

In high-demand neighborhoods, a studio ADU might bring in $1,800 to $2,200 a month. A one bedroom ADU, depending on finishes and location, can earn between $2,500 to $3,200+. Even when the square footage is similar, one-bedrooms typically command more rent because they offer better privacy and appeal to a broader range of tenants—couples, professionals, or anyone needing more defined living space. If steady income is your goal, the one-bedroom often delivers a stronger return, though it usually costs a bit more to build upfront.

Which ADU Fits Your Property and Lifestyle Best?

Intended Use: Guests, Rentals, or Family?

Start by thinking about how you’ll actually use the space. Occasional guest stays or home office? A studio ADU will likely be plenty. Planning to rent it out on Airbnb or house family full-time? That’s where a one-bedroom shines. NEO Builders helps you get clear on this early, so you’re not making design choices that won’t serve your actual needs.

Lot Size, Outdoor Space, and Design Preferences

Your lot will tell you a lot. A studio might be easier to tuck into a smaller backyard or as a garage conversion. A one-bedroom takes more space but can still be beautifully designed to preserve open yard or garden areas. And with NEO, every design is customized to fit your property—no cookie-cutter layouts. Want to see how it all comes together? Check out our walkthrough ADU property tours to explore real examples of how we design spaces that work for your lot and your lifestyle.

Local LA Zoning, Setbacks, and Parking Rules

LA’s zoning rules vary depending on your lot size and location, but many single-family homes qualify for at least one ADU. Units under 800 square feet often don’t trigger extra parking requirements, which helps. Thanks to California’s by-right approval process, you don’t need a public hearing or special review if your ADU meets basic state criteria. Legislation like SB 9 and SB 13 has made it even easier to build by limiting local restrictions and streamlining permitting. NEO takes care of all the permitting and zoning research for you, so you don’t have to worry about the fine print.

Studio ADU Design Ideas to Maximize Space and Style

Open-Concept Living with Smart Layouts

When space is limited, layout is everything. Studio ADU floor plans benefit from clean sight lines, hidden storage, and multifunctional pieces. You can create a unit that feels way bigger than it looks with just a few smart moves.

Indoor-Outdoor Living Features

One of the best ways to make a small space feel larger? Open it to the outdoors. French doors, patios, or even sliding glass walls can add usable square footage without technically expanding the structure. It’s a trick we use often when working on adu studio layouts.

Premium Finishes That Add Value

Even in small units, finishes matter. A high-end backsplash, durable flooring, or matte black fixtures can elevate the whole space. NEO Builders helps homeowners choose finishes that make a real impact—whether you’re going for luxury or low-maintenance.

Book Your Free ADU Consultation with NEO Builders

Talk to a Designer About Your Lot

Every property’s different. We’ll help you figure out what kind of ADU your lot can handle—and what makes the most sense.

Customize Your ADU to Your Goals

Need extra income? Housing for family? A quiet backyard retreat? We’ll design the perfect unit for what you actually want to use it for.

Get Started on Studio or One-Bedroom Plans Today

Still deciding between a studio or one-bedroom? Book your free ADU consultation with NEO Builders and let’s talk through your options. We’ll help you build smarter.