Commercial General Contractor Orlando: Your Complete 2025 Market Guide

If you’re searching for a commercial general contractor in Orlando, you’re entering one of Florida’s most dynamic construction markets. Orlando’s commercial construction market continues to boom, driven by tourism, healthcare expansion, technology sector growth, and steady population increases.

Planning a commercial project in Central Florida? Here’s everything you need to know about working with a commercial general contractor in Orlando for 2025.

The Orlando Commercial Landscape

Unlike markets that depend on a single industry, Orlando has diversified beyond tourism. Medical City at Lake Nona has established the region as a healthcare hub. The I-4 corridor has attracted tech companies and corporate relocations. And of course, the entertainment and hospitality sector continues expanding with new attractions, hotels, and restaurants constantly under construction.

A commercial general contractor in Orlando must understand these diverse market segments to serve clients effectively.

Popular Commercial Project Types for Orlando General Contractors

Restaurant Build Outs

With 75 million annual visitors and a growing local population, restaurant construction in Orlando stays consistently strong. From quick-service concepts near the parks to upscale dining in Winter Park, your commercial general contractor in Orlando should have extensive restaurant experience.

Medical Facilities

Healthcare construction continues expanding beyond Lake Nona. A commercial general contractor in Orlando increasingly works on urgent care centers, specialty clinics, and medical offices throughout Orange and Seminole counties.

Retail and Hospitality

New shopping centers, hotel renovations, and entertainment venues keep commercial general contractors in Orlando busy year-round.

Multifamily

Apartment construction has surged to meet housing demand, with multifamily projects throughout the metro area.

Local Construction Considerations Your Orlando Contractor Must Navigate

Hurricane Codes

Florida’s building codes include stringent wind resistance requirements. A commercial general contractor in Orlando must ensure buildings meet Miami-Dade protocols in some areas, affecting materials, installation methods, and costs.

The Florida Building Commission maintains the state’s building code requirements.

Permitting Timelines

Orange County and City of Orlando have different permitting processes. Plan for 4-8 weeks for most commercial permits when working with your commercial general contractor in Orlando, longer for complex projects or those requiring variances.

Impact Fees

Florida municipalities charge impact fees for new construction to fund infrastructure. These vary by location and project type but can add tens of thousands to project costs.

Summer Weather

Central Florida’s afternoon thunderstorms from June through September can affect construction schedules. An experienced commercial general contractor in Orlando plans for these delays.

Costs in the Orlando Market

Commercial construction costs in Orlando generally run 5-10% lower than major Northeast or West Coast markets, but have increased significantly since 2020. Current ranges from a qualified commercial general contractor in Orlando:

• Office tenant build out: $55-$150 per square foot
• Restaurant build out: $175-$400+ per square foot
• Medical office: $125-$250 per square foot
• Retail shell: $85-$175 per square foot

Finding the Right Commercial General Contractor in Orlando

Orlando’s construction market is competitive. Look for a commercial general contractor in Orlando with:

• Florida licensing in good standing with DBPR
• Experience in your specific project type
• Established relationships with local subcontractors
• References from projects completed in the Orlando area

Someone who’s navigated Orange County permitting before will keep your project on track. An inexperienced commercial general contractor in Orlando can cost you months in delays.

Planning a commercial project in Central Florida? Contact Bowser Construction Group to discuss your Orlando construction project with our experienced team.