Medical Clinic Renovation Costs Per Square Foot in South Florida (2025 Guide)

Thinking of Building or Renovating a Medical Office, Clinic, or Outpatient Center?

Before you dive in, it’s crucial to understand what drives cost per square foot. In healthcare construction, even small layout or equipment decisions can shift your budget dramatically.

Average Medical Clinic Renovation Cost per Square Foot

Costs vary based on specialty, finishes, and complexity. Here’s a general range for 2025 South Florida pricing:

Type of Medical Facility	Typical Cost per SF	Key Cost Drivers
General Practice / Primary Care	$160–$220	Exam rooms, plumbing, basic millwork
Dental Clinic	$220–$300	Compressed air/vacuum systems, cabinetry, lead shielding
Imaging Center (X-ray, MRI)	$300–$450+	Structural reinforcement, magnetic shielding, HVAC upgrades
Urgent Care / Outpatient Center	$200–$280	HVAC zoning, patient flow layout, medical gas
Surgical Suite / Ambulatory Surgery Center	$350–$600+	Operating room standards, sterilization zones, advanced MEP systems

Note: These numbers reflect hard construction costs only (labor, materials, and MEP systems). Soft costs such as architectural, permit, and equipment expenses are separate and can add another 15–25%.

What Impacts Your Cost

Several factors can influence your construction costs:

1. Building Condition

   Shell spaces are cheaper to build out than full gut renovations.

   
   

2. Plumbing & Electrical Load

   Every additional sink or dedicated circuit adds up.

   
   

3. HVAC & Air Quality Requirements

   Medical codes require strict air changes and zoning.

   
   

4. Specialty Equipment

   X-ray shielding, oxygen piping, and sterilization rooms drive up costs.

   
   

5. Design & Finishes

   Modern interiors and patient-friendly materials elevate both brand and budget.

   
   

6. Permit & Code Compliance

   South Florida’s AHCA, FBC, and ADA requirements can influence timeline and cost.

   
   

Timeline: How Long a Medical Buildout Takes

Understanding the timeline is essential for planning:

• Design & Permitting: 2–4 months

• Construction: 3–6 months (depending on complexity)

• Total Duration: 5–10 months on average

  
  

If you’re converting a vanilla shell, expect the shorter end. If you’re remodeling a functioning practice, phased construction can stretch timelines to minimize downtime.

South Florida Market Insights

In Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties, medical buildouts run about 10–15% higher than the national average. This is due to labor demand, permit processing, and material costs. However, you gain access to an experienced pool of medical designers, engineers, and specialty subcontractors who understand healthcare compliance inside out.

Cost-Saving Tips from the Field

Here are some practical tips to save on costs:

• Plan your layout early. Moving walls late is costly.

• Use modular cabinetry. This reduces lead times and allows for future changes.

• Group plumbing fixtures. This saves on underground runs.

• Select durable, easy-to-clean finishes. These lower lifecycle costs.

• Work with a contractor experienced in AHCA and medical codes. This avoids expensive rework.

  
  

Ready to Plan Your Medical Buildout?

At Kore Construction, we’ve helped dozens of doctors, dentists, and medical investors transform empty shells into thriving healthcare environments. We’ll guide you through budgeting, design coordination, permitting, and construction. This way, you can focus on patients, not paperwork.

Request a Consultation

Or call (561) 447-4448 to get a free ballpark estimate for your next medical buildout in South Florida.

Conclusion

Building or renovating a medical facility can be a complex process. However, with the right planning and guidance, you can navigate this journey smoothly. Remember, understanding the costs and timelines is key to a successful project. Don't hesitate to reach out for assistance. Your vision is within reach!