How much does it cost to build a house in Whittier?

A new 1,800 sq ft, 3-bedroom home costs about $873,000 to build, all in, including building, site work, city fees and design. Land is extra: about $487,500 for a typical lot in areas like Whittier.

What is a new home worth in Whittier?

About $1,462,500 for a new 1,800 sq ft home in an area like Whittier.

What a new home costs in Whittier (2026)

Building a new custom home, tearing down and rebuilding, or rebuilding after a fire in Whittier? Hemisphere A&E is an architecture and design-build firm: one team for design, permits and construction. Here are typical numbers, the local rules, and your next step.

Typical new home numbers in Whittier

A new 1,800 sq ft, 3-bedroom home costs about $873,000 to build, all in: building, site work, city fees and design. Land is extra.
Typical land value for a lot in areas like Whittier: about $487,500.
Finished value: about $1,462,500 (about $650 per sq ft plus a new-home premium).
A new home like this could rent for about $6,750 a month.

Run the free new home cost calculator for Whittier

Building permits and local rules in Whittier

Who runs permits

City of Whittier Community Development: the Planning Division and Building.

SB 9 and lot splits

California law (SB 9) can allow a second home or a lot split on many single-family lots. Hillside, fire and historic rules can limit it.

What can slow you down

Hillside lots near the Puente Hills may face fire zone rules.
Historic homes may need extra review.
You still need a full site plan and energy report.

Free lot check in Whittier

Send Hemisphere A&E your address. We look up your zoning and lot size, what fits (ADU, junior ADU, SB 9, new home, apartments, remodel or business space), red flags like fire zones or hillside rules, and a rough cost range. No cost, no pressure. Email info@hemisphereae.com or call (619) 762-7144.