Garage Renovation Cost in Chicago

Updated April 19, 2026

Garage renovation costs in Chicago average $55–$110 per square foot at standard quality — about 10% above the US national average. A 400 sq ft Chicago garage renovation runs $22,000–$44,000 mid-range. Chicago's iconic detached 2-car alley garages — found behind nearly every bungalow and two-flat — are the most commonly renovated garage type in the city. Converting these to workshops, home gyms, or heated storage spaces is straightforward and permitted. Full coach house (carriage house ADU) conversions above detached garages are increasingly popular in Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, and Logan Square neighborhoods.

$55–$110
Cost Per Sq Ft
+10% above
vs National Avg
35%
Labor Share

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Frequently Asked Questions

A garage renovation in Chicago costs $55–$110 per square foot at standard quality. A 400 sq ft Chicago garage renovation runs $22,000–$44,000 mid-range. Converting a detached Chicago garage to a workshop or home gym costs $15,000–$35,000. A full coach house (carriage house ADU) conversion above a Chicago garage typically runs $80,000–$160,000.

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