What is a Casita?

Casita Uses

Given that a casita is a small house located behind a residential property, it offers all the functionality of a small home or ADU. It can be used as a guest house, a granny flat, or a source of extra income. It can be a hybrid space, a home office, yoga studio, art studio, or music studio, plus additional storage space. Ultimately, how you use your casita depends on your lifestyle.

Modern casitas combine functionality and style, offering a complete living experience in a compact footprint.

What is the Average Size of a Casita?

To be considered a true casita, a detached living space must be less than 800 square feet, and most casitas are typically even smaller than that, clocking in at around 500 square feet. While this might not seem like much, this amount of square footage can make a huge impact on quality of life, giving additional space for multi-generational living or generating thousands of dollars in additional rental income every month.

A builder who is experienced in auxiliary living spaces and the construction of ADUs will be able to comfortably design a 1 or even a 2 bedroom casita with in-unit laundry.

Most casitas average around 500-800 sq. ft., balancing space efficiency with enhanced living possibilities.

What’s the Difference Between a Casita and an ADU?

All casitas are technically ADUs, but not all ADUs are considered casitas.

A casita refers to a small, detached house that provides a secondary living space on a residential property, usually in Southwestern states. The definition of an ADU is much more broad. An ADU (accessory dwelling unit) is also an independent living space, but it can be as large as 1200 square feet.

An ADU must have a separate entrance, a kitchen, and a bathroom (like casitas) but don’t have to be detached (unlike casitas). ADUs can be attached to the primary home. They can also be built above a garage (carriage house) or barn (barndominium).

When it comes to zoning laws and building codes, casitas follow the same guidelines as an ADU. They also qualify for the same fee waivers as a traditional ADU under 750 square feet. You can read more about those fee waivers here.

Casitas are detached structures, offering private and self-contained living spaces, unlike some ADUs.

Why Build a Casita? Benefits for Homeowners

Casitas share another important similarity with ADUs: they can add tremendous value.

We already touched on their versatility of use as an in-law apartment or a rental property, but it’s worth reiterating because, for many families in the San Diego area, it’s this versatility that can help financially with the competitive and expensive Southern California housing market.

Casitas and ADUs also increase a property’s overall value significantly, meaning that a casita doesn’t just make your immediate living situation more comfortable, but it puts additional money in your pocket when you do ultimately look to sell.

Building a casita can significantly enhance property value and provide flexible living or rental options.

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Casita in California?

The construction costs for a casita vary widely, but their small size works in their favor. Larger ADUs are almost always more expensive to build than smaller structures because they require more construction materials.

Costs of construction are also highly dependent on the cost of labor in your city, the amount of site prep that needs to be done to accommodate additional buildings, and the finishes you choose. While implementing certain luxury features will make your casita feel homier and more comfortable for long-term living, going high-end on every finish will definitely have an impact on your overall budget.

To get a rough estimate for your casita, check out our cost calculator or reach out for a consultation for a more accurate quote.

Site preparation and quality materials play a key role in managing casita construction costs effectively.

Casita Design Options: Tailoring to Your Needs

A smart floor plan will make your casita as functional as possible, but a tailored, custom design will make it feel like yours.
While the traditional Spanish style is a natural design choice for casitas, it isn’t required. If your existing home has a more modern design, you can mirror the exterior so your two structures blend perfectly, creating a cohesive feel on the property.

A well-designed casita kitchen maximizes functionality and style, making small spaces feel spacious and inviting.

Customizable Casita Floor Plans

Custom design not only increases the curb appeal of your casita but also ensures you’re getting the most out of your build. Everything can be tailored to your exact property lines, your exact budget, and your intended use.

While our vetted floor plans are a great starting point for helping you narrow down what’s important to you, we tell property owners that they only get you about 80% of the way there. Especially when it comes to compact spaces like casitas, every detail matters and can take your income property or guest house to the next level.

Tailor your casita’s design to match your needs and maximize functionality with customized floor plans.

Why Choose Better Place Design & Build for Your Casita Project?

Better Place Design & Build understands that any homeowner undertaking a casita build is making a significant investment, both with their time and their money. That’s why we strive to make every build as smooth as possible, helping our homeowners understand and navigate the local laws and the permitting process to jumpstart a stress-free construction process.

In most cases, we can build you the casita in your dreams between 8-12 months, and it all starts with a free consultation. Schedule yours today to see what’s possible.